Why have the fires in California spread so quickly?

A real-life drama is unfolding just outside of Hollywood.

Wildfires have erupted with an "alarming speed", in just a few hours. Why?

What caused the fires in what California?

There are currently three wildfires burning in southern California. The causes of all three are still under investigation.

It is known that the majority (85%) of all wildfires across the US are caused by humans, either intentionally or accidentally, according to the US Forest Service.

But there is a difference between what starts a fire and what allows it to spread, he writes sky news, the Telegraph reports.

However these fires started, other factors fueled them, causing them to spread quickly and giving people less time to prepare or escape.

The main culprit so far is the Santa Ana winds.

What are the Santa Ana winds?

The so-called Santa Ana winds are extreme, dry winds that are common in LA in the colder winter months.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection warned that strong Santa Ana winds and low humidity are increasing "extreme fire hazards."

Winds have already reached 96km/h and could reach 160km/h in the mountains and lowlands - including in areas that have seen little rain in recent months.

It is reported that the wind is hindering the efforts of firefighters to extinguish the flames.

What role has climate change played?

California Gov. Gavin Newsom said there have been wildfires "year-round in the state of California" despite the state not "traditionally" seeing wildfires this time of year — apparently alluding to the impact of climate change.

But scientists will need time to assess the role of climate change.

And it's widely known that climate change is increasing hot, dry weather in the US.

But human activities, such as forest management and ignition sources, are also important factors that dictate how a fire spreads.

Otherwise, Southern California has experienced a particularly hot summer, followed by almost no rain during what should be the wet season. /Telegraph/