A study published Thursday has put the blame for the wildfires ravaging parts of Los Angeles on an emerging climate phenomenon: hydroclimate whiplash. This latest disaster comes on the heels of years of unprecedented weather swings, where periods of above-average rainfall are followed by extensive droughts.

Historically, fire-prone periods in the LA region were seasonal, peaking in late summer and early fall. Now risks are all year round.

Wildfire weather conditions across portions of Southern California will largely remain critically elevated through Thursday and possibly Friday as well, according to the National Weather Service.