A red flag warning is in effect for much of southern California until Thursday as extremely gusty winds and low humidity have primed the region for wildfires.

Fierce wildfires are raging in the Los Angeles area, with fast-moving flames burning through homes and businesses

In the frantic haste to get to safety from the Palisades Fire, roadways became impassable when scores of people abandoned their vehicles and fled on foot, some toting suitcases.