LOS ANGELES (AP) — Windy and dry conditions returned to Southern California on Monday, raising the risk of new wildfires sparking as firefighters continue to battle two major blazes in the Los Angeles area that started in similar weather nearly two weeks ago.

Jan. 8, 1:25 p.m. PST The Palisades Fire in Los Angeles’ Pacific Palisades—an affluent coastal neighborhood—exploded to 15,832 acres, according to Cal Fire, making it the largest fire of the four burning in Los Angeles County as of Wednesday afternoon.

A rare Particularly Dangerous Situation warning has been issued for Southern California as a powerful and potentially damaging Santa Ana wind event​ is expected.

Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley said Tuesday that “life-threatening and destructive and widespread winds” are in the region, which could fuel the growth of new or existing wildfires in Los Angeles County and Ventura County.

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.

As recovery efforts continue in Southern California, Santa Ana winds are expected to return, increasing the fire risk and prolonging containment efforts in the region this week as of Jan. 20.