Santa Ana winds are forecasted to blow through Southern California this weekend, and weather officials are expecting this to be the strongest wind event of the season so far.
The winds can bring dry weather and increased risk of wildfires. The California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) wants to encourage residents to be aware of the signs of fire danger during Sana Ana winds.
What to Expect this Weekend
The National Weather Service (NWS) in San Diego is expecting winds to come in on Saturday, be strongest on Sunday, and last through Monday.
With the wind, comes dry air conditions – humidity is expected to get down into the teens on Sunday and even lower, at single-digit levels, during the late morning/early afternoon hours on Monday.
About Santa Ana Winds
The Santa Ana winds typically blow in from October to December, bringing with them an amplified wildfire risk. They are a low humidity type of wind that move from the desert toward the ocean, bringing in dry air and raising temperatures, especially on coast.
“It’s like having a blow dryer on our vegetation and fuel and brush, increasing the risk of wildfires,” said Alex Tardy, NWS Warning Coordination Meteorologist in San Diego.
Tips to Stay Safe
There are several ways to prepare for wildfires – and all disasters – by planning ahead:
- Sign up for local alerts at CalAlerts.org.
- Make a plan and write down important phone numbers and websites of organizations that can help you in an emergency.
- Pack a go bag with things you need, like important documents, cash, maps and medication.
- Build an emergency kit for your vehicle.
- Build a stay box for when you can’t leave.