An intense wind storm in southern California poses both damage and wildfire risks through Wednesday. Low humidity and winds gusting to 65 mph will have many on their toes.

Some of the most powerful winds in the last decade could occur around the Los Angeles Metro as this wind storm takes hold. The National Weather Service is calling this event life-threatening and destructive. Places recently affected by Santa Ana wind and fire events like Los Angeles, Malibu, Beverly Hills, Pasadena and Burbank are all within range for this strong wind event.

This Santa Ana wind event - more about them here - can be clearly seen on the WindRadar now. we'll see the winds increase throughout the day Tuesday with similar gusts in the 30 mph range for the valleys and to the 60 mph range in the mountains happening Wednesday.

The warm, dry air will keep humidity levels in the teens and 20s in southern California, posing a wildfire risk. A dropped cigarette butt, used matches and electrical machinery over dry grasses can all start wildfires. With the gusty winds, the flames could quickly be spread across acres and acres.

The most recent Santa Ana wind event had wildfires sparking all around Malibu back in early December, but this event is likely to be strongest of the season so far. Check the WindRadar frequently, bring in loose objects from outdoors and have an emergency kit stocked as power outages are expected.