Southern California could face most dangerous fire weather yet over holiday

Southern California is bracing for what might be the most dangerous fire weather event of the year.

Utility companies are considering shutting off power to hundreds of thousands of residents as warm temperatures, howling winds and low humidity descend on the region, increasing ignition risks during the holiday weekend.

Southern California Edison, which supplies energy to 5m households and businesses through the region, announced that it was considering cutting power to more than 151,000 customers in six counties over concerns of the heightened risks. San Diego Gas & Electric is also considering power shutoffs for more than 43,000 customers. As of Wednesday morning, no power shutoffs had been issued by either utility.

The parched plants that grow in the region are already primed to burn, but accompanied by strong wind and low air-moisture, these critically dangerous conditions can quickly turn ignitions into infernos.