Feb. 08--Strong winds could top 70 mph for parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties Monday, increasing the risk of potentially volatile fire conditions.
Firefighters were put on alert as powerful offshore winds, unseasonably warm temperatures and dry conditions prompted a red flag warning due to extreme fire danger in both counties. The conditions could lead to "rapid fire growth and extreme fire behavior," the National Weather Service warned.
In Camarillo, firefighters saw the dangerous fire conditions firsthand Sunday when a small blaze quickly expanded to three acres and threatened structures in the area. Firefighters were able to control the blaze after a fast and aggressive response.
Where do the Santa Ana winds come from?
Gusts of up to 70 mph or higher were expected to howl through the mountains Monday. Similarly, powerful gusts reaching 50 mph could sweep through the valleys and coastal areas.
Warm Springs, a camp nestled in Acton, was hit with the strongest winds as gusts reached 58 mph overnight, the weather service reported.
Santa Ana conditions will continue through Wednesday, with the strongest winds expected to hit both counties Monday.
Temperatures will climb into the high 80s Monday and Tuesday in the coasts and valleys as humidity drops.
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