Millions of residents across Southern California are under urgent red flag warnings as dangerous fire conditions persist. The National Weather Service (NWS) extended the warning to January 23, cautioning that high winds, warm temperatures and low humidity could fuel rapid wildfire growth, threatening lives and property.

More than 10 million Californians, particularly in Ventura and Los Angeles counties, are currently at risk. The NWS emphasized that any fire ignition could result in extreme fire behavior, placing additional strain on firefighting efforts in an already volatile situation.

The warnings come as the state continues to grapple with devastating wildfires that have already taken a heavy toll. The Los Angeles County medical examiner confirmed the death toll has climbed to 28, with many of the victims found in Pacific Palisades and Pasadena. At least 15,000 structures have been destroyed, with damage estimates in the billions.

Despite some progress in containment, the fires remain a significant concern. The Lilac Fire near San Diego is 90% contained after burning 85 acres. The Palisades Fire in Los Angeles County, which has scorched over 25,000 acres, is 68% contained, while the Eaton Fire is 91% contained after burning 14,025 acres.

While winds in the region are expected to weaken slightly, gusts reaching up to 65 mph in some areas continue to pose a serious threat, exacerbating the already hazardous fire conditions. AccuWeather predicts a potential break with rain expected to arrive over the weekend, which could bring much-needed relief to the fire-weary region.

In response to the ongoing crisis, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has taken proactive measures, ordering the installation of reinforced barriers and the removal of debris from wildfire-scarred areas. These actions are part of an effort to mitigate the risks of mudslides and debris flows as heavy rains are expected.

California Governor Gavin Newsom also took to social media, urging crews to prepare for the additional threat posed by the incoming storms. He warned that the destructive impact of winter storms on fire-damaged terrain could exacerbate the state’s challenges.

Amid the chaos, President Donald Trump is expected to visit California later this week. However, sources indicate that Trump has yet to speak directly with Governor Newsom. The President, who has previously criticized Newsom’s handling of the wildfires, made headlines on January 21 for suggesting the existence of a “massive valve” that could funnel water into fire-prone areas to prevent further damage—an unverified claim that sparked widespread discussion.

Former Vice President Kamala Harris, who visited Los Angeles on January 20, joined local fire crews to distribute aid to the affected communities.

As California grapples with the dual threat of wildfires and the impending winter storms, officials are working tirelessly to minimize further destruction and safeguard residents from the compounding natural disasters.