That’s leading to the creation of mountain waves, which arise when strong winds blow perpendicular to a mountain range. The waves shoot down the coastal side of the mountains, gaining speed along the way, and are more casually referred to as simple Santa Ana winds.

Dire warnings have been issued for the Los Angeles area, with a dangerous threat for the strongest wind event in more than a decade. Outages and extreme fire behaviours are major risks

San Diego Gas & Electric began public safety power shutoffs Tuesday as San Diego County braces for a Santa Ana wind event and Red Flag Warning.

Weather officials have issued a red flag warning for parts of Southern California as extreme fire conditions increase.