California is preparing for the return of strong winds, raising fears of renewed wildfire outbreaks.
Recovery efforts from recent fires, which left parts of Los Angeles in smoldering ruins, are expected to require billions of dollars, President Joe Biden stated on Monday.”Restoring Los Angeles to what it once was will cost tens of billions of dollars,” the outgoing president remarked as the Los Angeles metropolitan area braces for another round of dangerous winds that could fan existing fires or spark new ones.
After a brief respite, Southern California will face strong winds over the next two days. Authorities warn these conditions could reignite flames in the still-burning areas and pose a risk of fresh outbreaks.
Firefighters spent Monday building containment lines around the Eaton and Palisades fires while preparing for the incoming windstorm, which is expected to sweep through the region. Areas at risk include Ventura County, the San Fernando Valley, parts of Los Angeles, and the San Gabriel Valley, with forecasts predicting intense gusts.
Over the past few days, calmer winds allowed firefighting aircraft to prevent the Palisades fire from spreading to Brentwood and Encino. Officials are hopeful that firefighting aircraft can be deployed again on Tuesday, though conditions may limit their effectiveness.
The wildfires in the Los Angeles area have already claimed at least 24 lives, with officials continuing efforts to control the devastation.
