Los Angeles is preparing for a major power outage ahead of the expected onset of dangerous Santa Ana winds this weekend, fire officials have cautioned.

“Please understand that the inevitable public safety power shut-offs that will be implemented prior to this life-threatening Santa Ana wind event are crucial to preventing new fire starts, and that they help save lives,” Fire Chief Anthony Marrone emphasized on Saturday.

“Yes, they’re a challenge to deal with, but it’s certainly better than having another fire start.”

The intense Santa Ana winds are forecasted to intensify this evening after a short period of calm earlier in the day, and they are expected to persist through Wednesday.

Marrone explained that the combination of these winds, along with low humidity and dry conditions, will maintain a high fire risk across Los Angeles County.

{Matzav.com}