Millions of Southern Californians are bracing for a life-threatening windstorm, as wildfires spread across the Los Angeles area, fueled by powerful winds and dry conditions.

The National Weather Service has issued a “Particularly Dangerous Situation” red flag warning, affecting an estimated 19 million people across the region, including metropolitan Los Angeles. This rare and severe warning, last issued during the Franklin Fire in Malibu last month, signals a heightened risk of destructive wildfires and extreme weather.

The most immediate concern is the Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7 and has already burned over 1,200 acres. As of Tuesday evening, the fire was still active, prompting evacuation orders for the Palisades area. Firefighters are battling the blaze amid winds gusting as high as 100 mph in some mountain areas, with the storm expected to peak in intensity early Wednesday.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has mobilized state resources to combat the fires and respond to the storm’s threats. “We are no strangers to winter-time wildfire threats,” said Newsom in a statement, urging residents to remain vigilant and prepared for evacuations.

The combination of dry Santa Ana winds, warm temperatures and extremely low humidity has created the perfect conditions for rapid fire spread. In addition to the Palisades Fire, firefighters are also working to contain a brush fire in the Hollywood Hills. Experts are warning that these could be some of the most dangerous fire conditions Southern California has faced in years.

The National Weather Service has warned that this windstorm could cause widespread damage, including downed trees and power outages. Energy company San Diego Gas & Electric has announced that it could preemptively shut off power to nearly 65,000 customers to reduce the risk of further fire outbreaks.

In response to the worsening conditions, all schools in Malibu have closed campuses and some schools in Los Angeles have restricted outdoor activities for students.

With fire conditions expected to persist through Friday, authorities are urging residents in fire-prone areas, including the San Fernando Valley and Hollywood Hills, to stay prepared for evacuation orders.

“This is about as bad as it gets in terms of fire weather,” said the National Weather Service, as the region braces for one of the most dangerous fire seasons in recent memory.