Santa Ana winds prompt warnings for residents in high-fire zones

SANTA CLARITA, Calif. (KABC) -- The wildfire danger this weekend comes with the return of the Santa Ana winds, and just last week two fires believed to be caused by homeless encampments caused concern.

The wind-driven fire season has caused deadly destruction this winter - and with little rain and low humidity, people are urged to be even more cautious.

"Especially with all the fires and everything that's been happening over the last couple of months, it's definitely a concern for most people in this area," Ruben Alvarado said.

The National Weather Service warns of increased wildfire danger for Saturday night through Monday afternoon. Firefighters said it will be unusually warm for this time of year and dry. Add a strong Santa Ana wind event to that and things can get dicey.

"It can be intimidating at times because as you saw in the last couple of fires that we had, it can be unstoppable until the winds die down," said Bobby Cox, an engineer with the Los Angeles County Fire Department.

Firefighters said gusts in the Santa Clarita area could reach up to 65 mph, so many people are doing what they can to prepare.

Authorities urge people not to light fires when it's windy outside as those embers can travel at least a mile away and ignite a blaze.