Southern California Faces Extreme Fire Danger

Southern California is facing a severe windstorm, with the National Weather Service issuing warnings of 'life-threatening and destructive' conditions due to Santa Ana winds, which could reach up to 100 mph. Multiple small fires have ignited across the region, including a significant blaze in the Pacific Palisades that has prompted evacuation orders and consumed over 200 acres of dry brush. Firefighters are struggling to contain these fires as gusty winds spread embers, exacerbating the wildfire risk in an area that hasn't seen significant rainfall since April. The extreme weather has also led to President Biden canceling travel plans to the region due to safety concerns. Meanwhile, utilities are considering preemptive power cuts to mitigate fire risks, affecting half a million customers across several counties. Similar fire threats have emerged in other regions, including Cape Otway in Victoria, Australia, where campers have been advised to shelter in place as a bushfire threatens the area.