High pressure is building from the north and that will help to tighten the pressure gradient over southern California, producing more gusty winds.

Southern California ‒ with sprawling cities, clogged freeways and heavy industry ‒ is already notorious for some of the worst air quality in the nation. This week's wildfires are putting millions of people at risk for immediate health problems and longer-term issues.

Deadly wildfires in the Los Angeles area have sent tens of thousands scrambling for safety and decimated neighborhoods. Wildfire smoke has spread miles from the major blazes as fire crews and the National Guard work to control them.