The Eaton and Palisades fires are now the most destructive wildfires in Southern California history, according to Cal Fire. Follow for live updates.

Californians in the greater Los Angeles area are on edge as dangerous winds and temperatures are forecast. The Palisades and Eaton fires have killed at least 25 and destroyed thousands of homes.

New or existing wildfires could grow rapidly on Wednesday under these conditions, forecasts warned. Officials are trying to prevent speculation and evictions in ravaged neighborhoods.

Los Angeles Fire Department Chief Kristin Crowley said Tuesday that “life-threatening and destructive and widespread winds” are in the region, which could fuel the growth of new or existing wildfires in Los Angeles County and Ventura County.

Firefighters on Tuesday held the line against two massive wildfires that have ravaged parts of Los Angeles for the past week, even as desert winds and a parched landscape presented extremely hazardous conditions.

A growing force of firefighters battled massive infernos across the Los Angeles area on Monday as more powerful winds moved in and threatened recent progress against wildfires that have destroyed thousands of homes and killed at least 24 people.

For the latest updates on the LA fires, follow USA TODAY's live coverage for Tuesday, Jan. 14. LOS ANGELES − Ominous winds were expected to regain strength Monday, howling through fire-blackened trees,

The threat of powerful wind gusts combined with bone-dry humidity in Los Angeles on Wednesday could pose a severe test for firefighters who have been battling to keep monstrous fires in check since last week.