Strong winds and low humidity are increasing the risk of fires this weekend. A wind advisory is in effect until at least 3 p.m. Saturday for the San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys, as well as the Santa Monica Mountains,

A major "diablo wind" — notorious in autumn for its hot, dry gusts — is expected to whip up across Northern California on Thursday evening, causing humidity levels to drop and raising the risk of wildfires.

Gusty Santa Ana winds and warmer temperatures have officials concerned about an increased chance of wildfires erupting in Southern California heading into the weekend. Red flag warnings have been issued for most mountain and valley locations of Los Angeles and Ventura counties from 9 a.

Southern California Edison announced it may shut off power as early as Friday morning in case of hazardous conditions.

More than 27,000 customers across California have already had their power cut due to increased wildfire risks, and many more could soon experience the safety shutoffs.

Red flag fire warnings have been raised and utilities have said they could need to cut power supplies. California wildfire risks are rising as the state’s annual wind season gets underway with gusts rolling out of the north that can fan any flame into an out-of-control blaze,