Santa Ana winds threaten again this week as firefighters labor to douse Los Angeles blazes

The Santa Ana winds that fanned the fires devastating Southern California were forecast to return as firefighters scrambled to douse the deadly blazes that have destroyed more than 10,000 homes, businesses and other structures.

“A strong Santa Ana Wind event is expected to develop Monday and last through at least Tuesday,” the National Weather Service said in its red flag warning, adding that the humidity will fall sharply. “Along with the extremely dry fuels, this will create a high risk for critical fire weather conditions and rapid fire spread with any new firesPeak wind speeds are forecast to reach 50 to 70 mph along the coasts and valleys, according to the weather service office in Los Angeles. Gusts of 60 to 80 mph will race across the mountains and foothills of Los Angeles and Ventura counties.

Areas of most concern, which included Ventura County and communities north of Los Angeles, were issued the “particularly dangerous situation” red flag warning.Very dry conditions with low relative humidity and strong northeast winds are predicted to return,” Cal Fire said in its update on the Eaton Fire near Pasadena, now 81% contained.

The Palisades fire, the other major blaze, was 56% contained by Sunday night. The Eaton fire has killed at least 17 people, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. At least 10 have died in the Palisades fire. Firefighters are making steady progress, and officials are reassessing evacuation orders to ensure safe returns,” Cal Fire said in a Palisades fire incident report Sunday. “Crews are working with utility providers to repair infrastructure and address hazards like fallen trees and downed power lines.”

The department warned that while “clear and cool temperatures” with moderate humidity levels are expected through the night, a red flag warning for much of Southern California will last from Monday to Tuesday.