LOS ANGELES — Southern California is bracing for the strongest winds in over a decade, set to strike on Tuesday and posing a serious risk of structural damage and heightened fire danger in areas that have seen little rainfall recently.
The windstorm, which is expected to affect Los Angeles and Ventura counties beginning Tuesday afternoon, will peak in the early hours of Wednesday, with gusts potentially reaching up to 80 mph (129 kph). In mountainous and foothill regions, isolated gusts may even exceed 100 mph (160 kph).
Warnings have been issued regarding the possibility of downed trees, overturned large vehicles, and dangerous offshore conditions along the coasts of Orange County and LA, including Catalina Island. Local airports could also experience delays and turbulence due to these high winds.
Southern California Edison is considering public safety power shutoffs for nearly 300,000 customers in the region in preparation for these extreme conditions.
This upcoming wind event is expected to act as an “atmospheric blow-dryer” for local vegetation, significantly increasing fire risk, particularly in populated lower hills and valleys. Experts note that the region’s unique climate conditions this year have contributed to an unusual fire threat.
The current dry season follows an unusually wet one, leading to substantial grass and vegetation growth that, combined with the impending winds, raises concerns about wildfire risk.
Since early May, Southern California has received less than 0.1 inches (0.25 centimeters) of rain, leaving much of the area under moderate drought conditions, as reported by the U.S. Drought Monitor. In contrast, northern regions have experienced significant rainfall.
Particularly vulnerable are areas previously affected by recent wildfires, such as the charred landscape of the Franklin Fire last month, which led to extensive damage to homes in Malibu.
Last year, nearly 8,000 wildfires scorched more than 1 million acres statewide, underscoring the ongoing threat of fire in the region.
The last comparable wind event occurred in November 2011, leading to widespread power outages for over 400,000 customers throughout LA County.
If deemed necessary for public safety, planned power shutoffs may occur on Tuesday and Wednesday. According to utility representatives, while the electrical grid is designed to withstand high winds, the risk of flying debris and falling trees remains a concern.
