Although the strongest wind gusts have passed through the Southern California region, another "traditional Santa Ana wind event" will move in Thursday night.

The Santa Ana winds are blustery, dry, and warm and can result in massive damage. These winds could boost the danger of a wind-driven fire if they occur during wildfire season. Three major wildfires in the Los Angeles area are being driven by one of the most powerful Santa Ana winds in years.

Jon Keeley, a research ecologist in California with the U.S. Geological Survey and adjunct professor at UCLA, explains what causes extreme winds like this in Southern California, and why they create such a dangerous fire risk.