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.

A series of life-threatening fires, the largest of which is in the Pacific Palisades, are destroying homes as they race across Los Angeles County and surrounding areas. CNN is tracking the fires in maps and charts.

Meanwhile, a new brush fire ignited in the Woodland Hills neighborhood in northern Los Angeles, immediately prompting mandatory evacuation orders.