That’s leading to the creation of mountain waves, which arise when strong winds blow perpendicular to a mountain range. The waves shoot down the coastal side of the mountains, gaining speed along the way, and are more casually referred to as simple Santa Ana winds.

A strong Santa Ana wind event is bringing extreme fire risks to Santa Barbara County. Fire officials said they are on alert, fully staffed and ready to respond to potential fires that forecasters report could “threaten lives and property” due to the dangerous conditions.

When will LA County's extreme winds end? A red flag warning has been extended for areas already facing fast-moving wildfires.

Tamara Berg shows where the red flag warning is in effect in the Los Angeles area. This forecast is from Jan. 9 at 6:30 a.m.

The National Weather Service on Wednesday extended the wildfire warning through the end of the week for much of East County.

In San Diego, the Red Flag Warning for inland and mountain communities has been extended until at least 6 p.m. Friday, so our county remains on high alert due to the elevated fire risk. ABC 10News is bringing you extensive coverage on both the Los Angeles fires and how our area is preparing for the worst in this edition of the Wake Up Call newsletter.

ABC 10News reporter Moses Small reported live from Alpine, where wind gusts could reach 75 miles per hour in the next couple of days, elevating the fire risk for San Diego County.