Extreme Fire Weather Expected to Return to Southern California
Extreme fire weather conditions are set to return to Southern California on Wednesday, with forecasters issuing a “particularly dangerous situation” fire weather warning that will be in effect starting at 3 a.m. and running through 3 p.m. The warning encompasses large portions of Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura counties, as well as mountainous areas in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.
Experts Sound the Alarm
Meteorologist Ryan Kittell from the National Weather Service office in Oxnard emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant in the face of potential wildfires. While winds were not as strong as initially feared, the upcoming weather conditions pose a significant risk. Winds are expected to peak between 50 and 70 mph in the mountains of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, with gusts reaching 30 to 50 mph along the coast and in the valleys.
Forecasted Conditions
The winds are forecasted to come from the east, and Ventura County faces a heightened risk if a fire were to break out. Last week, the region experienced historic windstorms that fueled destructive fires, prompting concerns for the upcoming weather event. Despite the expected weaker winds compared to the previous week, the dry conditions and strong gusts pose a continued threat.
Red Flag Warnings and Impact
Red flag fire weather warnings are expected to expire by 6 p.m. Wednesday, with some areas extending through 3 p.m. Thursday, including the Grapevine section of Interstate 5 and the western San Gabriel Mountains. While conditions are projected to improve from Wednesday night through Saturday, there is a moderate risk for another round of red flag warnings starting around Monday.
Southern California’s dry spell, coupled with minimal rainfall, has exacerbated fire risks, with downtown Los Angeles receiving only 0.16 inches of rain since October 1. This lack of precipitation, combined with dry vegetation and strong winds, creates a dangerous environment for wildfires to spread rapidly.
As residents brace for the return of extreme fire weather conditions, it is crucial to remain prepared and alert to the potential risks posed by the upcoming weather event. Stay informed, follow safety guidelines, and be ready to take action to protect yourself and your community in the face of wildfires.