In this instance, the winds reached gusts of up to 99 miles per hour in the San Gabriel Mountains, according to the National Weather Service. These extreme gusts not only spread embers far beyond the initial fire perimeter but also made it nearly impossible for firefighting aircraft to operate safely.

Extreme wind conditions across Southern California will raise the fire danger level to the maximum today, with Red Flag Warnings in place for much of the area. In addition to the Red Flag Warnings, there are High Wind Warnings in place,

Fueled by strong Santa Ana winds, low humidity and ongoing drought conditions, wildfires erupted Tuesday in Southern California, threatening homes in Pacific Palisades.