Santa Ana winds increase risk of fire danger across Southern California

Red flag warnings remain posted as dry and gusty Santa Ana winds continue to buffet much of Southern California.

The National Weather Service says a high-wind warning is in effect until noon Wednesday, with the strongest gusts expected Tuesday night.

Northeasterly gusts up to 60 mph are possible in the mountains. In San Bernardino winds brought down a tree that landed on a school’s administration building late Monday.

Nobody was hurt. Drivers are urged to use caution navigating mountain passes. A red flag warning denoting a risk of wildfire is in effect until 6 p.m. Wednesday in mountains and forests, most valley areas, and the Los Angeles coastal zone.

The Santa Anas are being generated by strong surface high pressure anchored over the Great Basin. Temperatures will top out in the mid 80 in some areas.