The Santa Ana Wildfire Threat Index is warning Southern Californians of high risk conditions this week. Winds will increase on Tuesday, likely peaking Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, then weakening some on Thursday. It will be critically dry, and fire danger will be high. Be prepared.

Southern California faces a "extremely critical fire weather" that will likely result in "widespread" downed trees, power lines and electricity outages this week, the National Weather Service warns. Threat level: Rare,

In the face of what's predicted to be an intense Santa Ana windstorm, additional firefighting resources will be deployed throughout San Diego County for the remainder of the week, it was announced Monday.

Strong Santa Ana winds capable of toppling trees or causing widespread power shutoffs are expected to arrive in Southern California on Tuesday. KTLA's Carlos Saucedo speaks with fire officials warning of dangerous conditions and urging public safety.

Strong Santa Ana winds capable of toppling trees or causing widespread power shutoffs are expected to arrive to Southern California Tuesday. In preparation for the wind event and heightened wildfire risks,

Forecasters warned that a significant Santa Ana wind event this week could help wildfires spread quickly and erratically. Utility companies said they may pre-emptively cut off power to some customers.

Strong offshore winds, known as Santa Ana winds, will strengthen Tuesday and boost the fire danger to critical levels. The landscape in Southern California is extremely dry, and the rainfall season has not started.