"The fire is growing with a moderate rate of spread and structures are threatened," Cal Fire said as it issued evacuation orders.

A wind-driven wildfire charred dozens of acres in the sparsely developed northeastern reaches of San Diego County, damaging structures and forcing pre-dawn evacuations before crews could gain the upper hand on the flames Wednesday.

Santa Ana winds will continue whipping through Southern California through Thursday, sparking fears that progress made fighting wildfires that have scorched over 40,000 acres and left 28 dead could be reversed and more blazes could break out.

Multiple brush fires erupted in San Diego’s North County early Tuesday morning, prompting a fast response from firefighters and mandatory evacuations.

Forward progress was stopped on the Lilac fire around 10 a.m. It was one of three fires in North County early Tuesday.

For the latest updates on the LA and San Diego fires, follow USA TODAY's coverage for Wednesday, Jan. 22. SAN DIEGO — Multiple wildfires broke out in San Diego County on Tuesday, prompting evacuation orders,

A rare Particularly Dangerous Situation warning has been issued for Southern California as a powerful and potentially damaging Santa Ana wind event​ is expected.

Wildfires in Southern California prompt evacuations and school closures as Santa Ana winds exacerbate conditions. Communities remain on high alert.- Watch Video on English Oneindia

In the last few days, firefighters have battled multiple fires in the hills around Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Winds will linger through at least Friday morning, according to the weather service.

Los Angeles residents woke on January 7th to see a world engulfed in relentless, all-consuming flames. California is known for its wildfires and the state’s dry climate and vegetation, brought on by now-common drought conditions,

The Palisades and Eaton wildfires also continue burning in the Los Angeles area, leaving parts of Southern California with devastating fire damage.