Strong Winds Pose Fire Danger In Southland
FONTANA (CBSLA.com) — Strong winds moved through the Southland Tuesday night, raising the risk of wildfires and causing dangerous driving conditions in some areas.
In Fontana, trees and street signs could be seen swinging back and forth in the wind, making working -- and driving -- conditions difficult for some.
"The wind was really bad," said contractor Frank Sanchez. "It blew our cones and our flags all the way down the street, and our hard hats off."
The San Bernardino County Fire Department has increased staffing due to the windy conditions and the possibility of wildfires.
Firefighters say recent rains have done little to help, and in some cases, may have made the conditions worse.
"When we get the rain it facilitates the growth of some of the grasses, well those grasses aren't very big so they dry out very easily with winds like these," said Christopher Prater with the San Bernardino County Fire Department.
"When those grasses ignite, they carry the flame in front of the fire," he said.
Extra staff and engines will be strategically placed in areas susceptible to fires, officials said.
The California Highway Patrol is encouraging drivers, especially those with larger vehicles, to ride with caution through Fontana, Devore and the Cajon Pass.
