Southern California is bracing for another round of dangerous Santa Ana winds this week, increasing the risk of wildfires in a region still recovering from devastating blazes that have claimed at least 27 lives and destroyed thousands of homes. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Red Flag Warning from Monday morning through Tuesday evening, warning of a "particularly dangerous situation" for areas already impacted by the Palisades and Eaton fires.

The warning covers Ventura, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, where dry humidity and high winds are expected to create hazardous conditions. Wind gusts could reach 60 mph in many areas, with some coastal regions facing speeds as high as 70 mph and mountain and foothill regions potentially exceeding 100 mph.

Windy conditions, coupled with the region's lack of rainfall since April, are expected to persist through Thursday, further elevating fire risks. "Critical fire weather" was forecast for Southern California communities stretching to San Diego, with residents urged to prepare for evacuations by assembling emergency kits and ensuring vehicles have at least a half tank of gas.

California Governor Gavin Newsom's office said firefighting resources, including engines, water-dropping aircraft, and hand crews, have been strategically positioned across the region. "This proactive approach has proven to be a critical component of California's wildfire response strategy, reducing response times and containing fires before they escalate," the governor's Office of Emergency Services said in a statement.

The warnings come as firefighters continue battling the Palisades and Eaton fires, which have burned more than 37 square miles and destroyed over 14,000 structures since breaking out during intense winds on January 7. The Palisades fire was 52% contained as of Sunday, while the Eaton fire was 81% contained.

Firefighters have expressed concern that the returning winds could spread embers from within the containment lines. "There is always a possibility in a red flag warning something hot, or some type of burning material from the interior, could be perhaps whipped up and blown across the containment lines," said Dan Collins, a spokesperson for the Palisades fire incident.

Although firefighters are optimistic about the containment of the Eaton fire further inland, dry vegetation remains a major concern. There are concerns a new fire could break out with vegetation especially dry for this time of year, said Carlos Herrera, a spokesperson for the Eaton fire.

Some residents in Pacific Palisades were allowed to return home over the weekend as evacuation orders were lifted for the Highlands neighborhood. Meanwhile, damage inspection teams have completed assessments for about two-thirds of the affected structures, though many areas remain inaccessible. "Our damage inspection teams have to inspect every structure within the fire perimeter," Collins said.

In addition to the physical threats posed by the fires, two individuals were arrested on Saturday for attempting to enter a Palisades evacuation zone. According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, the pair, dressed in firefighter turnout gear, falsely claimed to be part of an Oregon fire agency. Investigators later discovered the truck they were driving had been purchased at auction.

The Red Flag Warning also includes an advisory for windblown dust and ash, as high winds are expected to disperse debris from fire zones. Residents across Southern California have been urged to remain vigilant and comply with evacuation orders if issued.

With dry conditions expected to continue and Santa Ana winds intensifying, Southern California Edison may issue power shutoff warnings to prevent equipment from sparking additional wildfires. The utility company has not yet announced specific areas where power may be cut.