fan the fire

Phelps said the critical dryness of the landscape helped fan the fire’s expansive growth throughout July and August.

However, the threat of thunderstorms through Monday could fan the fire and bring even more lightning as winds from the southwest push the fire to the north and east.

If such fires grow large enough, they can generate winds on their own, which fan the fire, making it hotter and spreading it further — a vicious, devastating cycle.

In general, noticeable tannins will clash, and high-alcohol levels will fan the fire.

"It's the winds that spread the embers and fan the fire," Berlant said.