Red Flag Warnings Issued for Los Angeles County as Santa Ana Wind Event Brings Critical Fire Conditions
Winds to Continue Through Thursday, with Gusts Reaching 60+ MPH
Much of Los Angeles County will again be facing red flag critical fire conditions on Thursday as a powerful and "particularly dangerous" Santa Ana wind event continues to combine with low humidity to raise the risk of wildfires. The National Weather Service reported peak gusts in the mountains reaching 75 to 85 mph, and 45-65 mph at lower elevations on Wednesday, with the winds tapering off as evening fell.
Red Flag Warnings in Effect
Red flag warnings of critical fire conditions will be in effect until 11 a.m. Friday in several areas, including the Santa Monica Mountains Recreational Area, San Gabriel Mountains, and the Antelope Valley (14) Freeway corridor, with a "Particularly Dangerous Situation" red flag warning in effect in those areas until 9 a.m. Thursday. Other areas under red flag warnings include the Golden State (5) Freeway corridor, Santa Clarita Valley, Malibu Coast, and San Fernando Valley, among others.
Residents Urged to Take Precautions
Residents in particularly wind- and fire-prone areas are urged to take precautions during the high-wind event. The County of Los Angeles Fire Department has implemented its augmented staffing plan, and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is actively preparing for the significant weather event. Authorities urge residents to be prepared by ensuring cell phones and other devices are fully charged, having working flashlights within reach, and preparing for the possibility of evacuations if fires do erupt.
Power Shutoffs Possible
Southern California Edison officials warned that some residents may be subjected to "Public Safety Power Shutoffs," in which electricity is cut to some areas experiencing particularly high winds to reduce the possibility of fires being sparked by damaged equipment. As of late Wednesday night, power had been cut to more than 16,300 SCE customers in Los Angeles County, and nearly 4,000 in Orange County.
Conclusion
The combination of high winds and low humidity has created a high risk of wildfires in Los Angeles County, with red flag warnings in effect until Friday. Residents are urged to take precautions to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them. By being prepared and taking necessary precautions, we can minimize the impact of this significant weather event.
FAQs
Q: What is a red flag warning?
A: A red flag warning is a weather alert issued when the combination of strong winds and low humidity creates a high risk of wildfires.
Q: What areas are under red flag warnings?
A: Red flag warnings are in effect in various areas of Los Angeles County, including the Santa Monica Mountains Recreational Area, San Gabriel Mountains, and the Antelope Valley (14) Freeway corridor, among others.
Q: What should I do to prepare for the high-wind event?
A: Residents are urged to ensure cell phones and other devices are fully charged, have working flashlights within reach, and prepare for the possibility of evacuations if fires do erupt.
Q: Can I get emergency notifications?
A: Yes, residents can sign up for emergency notifications by clicking here.
