As critical fire weather continues to strike in Southern California, crews are also tasked with preparing for a storm expected this weekend that could trigger mudslides in burn scar areas.

Thousands of firefighters have been battling wildfires across 45 square miles of densely populated Los Angeles County. The two largest fires, the Palisades Fire in Pacific Palisades and the Eaton Fire near Pasadena, remain active. One of the latest, the Hughes Fire in the Castaic area, has prompted evacuation orders for tens of thousands of people.

Santa Ana winds are expected to slightly decrease before ramping up again Wednesday evening in the Santa Clarita Valley.

Dry Santa Ana winds are expected to peak early Tuesday morning in the Santa Clarita Valley, bringing dangerous fire conditions to the area.

Blaze consumes 14 hectares per minute driven by wind gusts, threatening several residential areas of Santa Clarita

As Santa Ana winds returned to Southern California, residents and first responders braced for another day of critical fire weather.

After a brief break on Sunday afternoon, another prolonged round of gusty Santa Ana winds is expected to develop, forecasters say.

The Hughes Fire has spread over 8,096 acres after starting just before lunchtime in Los Angeles County's Castaic Lake area on Wednesday.

Southern California will continue to face "dangerous fire weather conditions" including strong Santa Ana winds and extremely low humidity through later this week, forecasters said Tuesday.

Despite red flag warnings ending Friday, strong Santa Ana winds are expected to return Saturday night in the Santa Clarita Valley. By the end of next week, a chance of much-needed rain is expected.

The National Weather Service issued its highest fire weather alert level for portions of the Los Angeles area for Monday into Tuesday morning, as powerful Santa Ana winds return. Threat level: The "Particularly Dangerous Situation" Red Flag Warning indicates any fires that ignite could quickly grow out of control.