Experts warn that the blazes unleashed complex chemical reactions on paint, furniture, building materials, cars, electronics, and other belongings, turning ordinary objects into potentially toxic ash that requires protective gear to handle safely. The ash could include harmful lead, asbestos, or arsenic, as well as newer synthetic materials.

Jan. 22 A new wildfire was reported today at 6:41 a.m. in Los Angeles County. The wildfire has been burning on private land. At this time, there is no data on the containment status of the fire and the cause has yet to be determined.

Forecasters warn that dangerous winds will buffet Southern California for at least two more days as new wildfires broke out and a pair of major Los Angeles-area blazes burned for a third week.