Southern California residents in Los Angeles County should prepare for significant fire risk and potential power outages as strong Santa Ana winds are expected to hit the region starting Thursday. The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for a substantial portion of the county, in effect from Thursday through Friday night. Low humidity combined with these powerful winds creates conditions ripe for rapid fire spread and extreme fire behavior. Gusts are forecast to reach 50 to 70 miles per hour in mountain areas, with gusty winds expected across many valleys and coastal communities. These high fire risk conditions could persist into Saturday.
Along with the fire danger, residents are urged to prepare for potential utility-initiated public safety power shutoffs and unplanned outages caused by wind damage. Such outages can disrupt communications, traffic signals, and electrically powered medical equipment. Adding to these risks, a heat advisory is in effect for portions of the county from Thursday through Saturday. Information on cooling centers and resources is available at ready.lacounty.gov/heat/.
The Los Angeles Fire Department has implemented augmented staffing and is pre-positioning additional ground and aerial resources across the county. To support coordination among county departments and response partners, and to distribute timely public information, the county’s Emergency Operations Center and the Joint Information Center will activate beginning Thursday morning.
Fire Chief Anthony C. Marrone confirmed that the Los Angeles County Fire Department had pre-positioned extra personnel, ground, and aerial resources. He urged residents to prepare immediately, advising them to review the “Ready! Set! Go!” program, identify their evacuation zone, and be ready to evacuate without delay.
Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna stated that the Sheriff’s Department prioritizes the safety of communities and personnel. He said the department is taking proactive steps through heightened monitoring, close coordination with law enforcement partners, and strategic staffing. Sheriff Luna encouraged residents to remain vigilant, stay informed, have an emergency plan, and follow the guidance of public safety officials, noting that “preparedness and collaboration are essential.”
Kevin McGowan, director of the Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management, referenced the January 2025 wildfires, underscoring the importance of early coordination, clear public information, and planning for people who need additional assistance. He confirmed the EOC and Joint Information Center are activating ahead of the forecast’s peak winds to support these priorities. McGowan stressed that residents can help protect themselves and their neighbors by preparing now, staying informed, and being ready to evacuate.
