Topline:

Monsoon season: As moisture moves toward Southern California from the Gulf of California and Arizona, there's a chance thunderstorms could develop over our mountains. Brief but intense downpours are a possibility, as is dry lightning, which could result in multiple fire starts.

Extreme fires: Fuel moisture across much of the area is critically dry, making it quick to burn, which is typical for this time of year. If a fire grows quickly, pyrocumulonimbus clouds can form — those can create their own extreme weather, including dry lightning and strong winds. That makes firefighting very challenging.

The outlook: Thunderstorms will be a concern through Sunday, though the warning may be extended. Temperatures are expected to peak at around 110 degrees on Thursday — 10 to 15 degre

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