Damaging winds, downed trees, power outages and raging wildfires. Santa Ana winds can lead to all of these and more, potentially leading to life-threatening conditions. Knowing what Santa Ana winds are and what to do could save your life.

Much of the Los Angeles area resembled a war zone Wednesday as at least four massive fires raged unchecked and destroyed hundreds of structures, driven by the worst Santa Ana winds to hit the region in more than a decade — winds that were expected to ease slightly by evening but continue into Thursday.

Mountain road closures are planned, and precautionary power shutoffs are expected due to potentially destructive winds and ultra-low humidity.