What to Know: The wildfires in Southern California

Wildfires began on Tuesday in Los Angeles County

(PACIFIC PALISADES, CA.) – As we deal with frigid and snowy conditions in Southeast Indiana, it is a far different story in the Los Angeles area. 

Multiple wildfires are ongoing which have destroyed hundreds of homes while claiming at least two lives.

The first wildfire broke out in Pacific Palisades on Tuesday morning and it has grown to impact nearly 16,000 acres as of Wednesday night. 

The second largest is the Eaton fire which has spread to more than 10,000 acres. 

Both the Palisades and Eaton fires have been listed as zero percent contained, according to CAL Fire. 

There are also fires in Hurst, Woodley, Lidia and Olivas. 

What sparked the wildfires?

The fast-moving fires are due to dry conditions as well as high winds known as Santa Ana winds.

Santa Ana winds are unique to California as they originate in the desert area and pick up speed as they move through the mountains and toward the Pacific Ocean. 

Those high winds, plus a lack of humidity, causes vegetation to dry out, which can create the perfect storm for a fire to spread. Winds can reach from 50 to 100 mph and it can lead to something as simple as a fallen power line or a discarded cigarette to spark a fire. 

The fires could continue to spread as winds are expected to continue through tomorrow.

"Extreme fire behavior, including short and long-range spotting, continues to challenge firefighting efforts for the Palisades Fire. Winds gusts up to 60 MPH are expected to continue through Thursday, potentially aiding in further fire activity and suppression efforts," said CAL Fire.