A beefed-up firefighting force was staged around Los Angeles to attack flare-ups or new blazes and anxious residents prepared for more fire danger as winds began to build Tuesday.

The threat of powerful wind gusts combined with bone-dry humidity in Los Angeles on Wednesday could pose a severe test for firefighters who have been battling to keep monstrous fires in check since last week.

Los Angeles residents are hoping to avoid new blazes that would further complicate efforts to contain the historic wildfires that have left at least 25 people dead.