New Round of Extreme Winds Forecast for Southern California Threaten to Rapidly Spread Flames
A Rare High-Wind Warning Issued for Northern San Fernando Valley and Eastern Ventura County
A rare variation of a high-wind warning has been issued for the northern San Fernando Valley and eastern Ventura County, which could have significant effects on the massive wildfires burning in Pacific Palisades and Altadena.
A “Particularly Dangerous Situation” Forecasted
A “Particularly Dangerous Situation” that could cause fires to spread rapidly is possible starting around 4 a.m. Tuesday, January 14, and lasting until about noon on Wednesday, the National Weather Service said. “It’s a heightened state of alert,” James Brotherton, a meteorologist for the weather service, said on Monday, January 13. “That’s basically very dry conditions in the air and very dry conditions on the ground combined with very strong winds. All three of those critical ingredients are at extreme levels.”
Strong Winds Expected to Affect Specific Areas
The winds, blowing from the northeast, are expected to be particularly strong in the western San Gabriel Mountains/5 Freeway corridor; the northern San Fernando Valley, mainly the 118 and 210 freeway corridors; the mountains in the Santa Susana Pass and Ventura County; and in the Ventura County valleys, mainly near Simi Valley, Moorpark, and Santa Paula. Wind gusts of 55 mph to 70 mph are possible, which could spread embers well ahead of any fire.
Previous High-Wind Warnings Proved Crucial in Past Wildfires
The weather service previously issued similar warnings three times in the past three months, according to Governor Gavin Newsom. The first preceded the Mountain fire in Ventura County that destroyed 243 structures. The second was made in advance of the Franklin fire in Malibu that destroyed 20 structures. The third preceded the Palisades and Eaton fires, which have destroyed more than 10,000 structures, Newsom said.
Residents Should Prepare for Evacuation and Take Precautions
Residents near wildland areas should be prepared to evacuate if a fire ignites. Information on creating an evacuation plan is available at readyforwildfire.org. Drivers should watch out for debris and smoke. The winds are not expected to be as fierce in the Palisades and Eaton fire areas, with gusts reaching 35 mph, according to Brotherton.
Conclusion
The forecasted extreme winds pose a significant threat to the ongoing wildfires in Southern California, and residents in affected areas should take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. It is crucial to stay informed about evacuation orders and to be prepared to take action if a fire ignites.
FAQs
* What is the forecasted wind speed? Wind gusts of 55 mph to 70 mph are possible.
* Which areas will be affected by the strong winds? The western San Gabriel Mountains/5 Freeway corridor, the northern San Fernando Valley, the mountains in the Santa Susana Pass and Ventura County, and the Ventura County valleys, mainly near Simi Valley, Moorpark, and Santa Paula.
* What should residents do in preparation for the high-winds? Residents near wildland areas should be prepared to evacuate if a fire ignites and should take necessary precautions to ensure their safety, including creating an evacuation plan and watching out for debris and smoke.
* What is the timeline for the high-wind warning? The warning is in effect starting around 4 a.m. Tuesday, January 14, and lasting until about noon on Wednesday, January 15.
