Santa Ana Winds To Affect Millions Of South California Residents Due To Wildfire Risks

Meteorologists said that the Santa Ana winds could affect millions of residents in South California as this phenomenon could trigger wildfires.

They explained that powerful and strong winds are expected in some areas of Southern California towards Monday evening.

Weather experts warned that these winds could cause damage and increase the risk for blaze in the region.

They added that Santa Ana winds could actually have wide-reaching impacts in the Los Angeles area during the fall and winter months.

previous fire threat in California due to Santa Ana winds

(Photo : Getty Images/David Mcnew)

What Are Santa Ana Winds

Experts defined Santa Ana winds as those high-speed and dangerous winds that periodically kick up and blow from the mountains going to the coast in Southern California.

These northeasterly winds usually blow from the coast ranges to the beaches as areas of the strong, high pressure build across the interior West.

Meteorologists said that the phenomenon typically peaks in October, however, this can occur anytime from late to early spring.

They pointed out that the wind speed could increase as the air tries to squeeze over mountain passes and rush downhill through the canyon, which is aligned in a northeast to southwest direction.

Furthermore, they explained that as the air descends in elevation, it may become compressed, and it will eventually heat up and dry out even more.

It was observed that moderate Santa Ana winds could often break tree limbs, send unsecured debris flying into windows, raise clouds of dust, and later result in wildfires that may ignite and spread rapidly.

Experts said that in addition to an increased risk of having wildfires, whole trees and high-profile vehicles can be knocked over.

On the other hand, sporadic power outages are also likely during the occurrence of more extreme cases of fires.

Authorities warned that in some cases, the wind gusts can reach the force of a hurricane (74 mph or greater).

The gusts during this particular period may actually lead to extensive property damage and widespread power outages.

Meteorologists warned that most Santa Ana events peak for a 12- to 24-hour period, then the winds ease. However, on rare occasions, the strong winds can actually remain for a few days.

'Exceptionally' Hot Weather

According to meteorologists, the most notorious occurrence of Santa Ana winds could actually result in exceptionally hot weather.

Under these circumstances, the risk of wildfire ignition and spread is very imminent.

Temperatures can actually surge past 100 degrees Fahrenheit near the coast, even during the autumn, winter and spring months.

Weather experts explained that whe the air gets this hot, it can also be "extremely dry."

Moreover, when the brush is also "very dry," the wildfire potential becomes extreme.

Due to this, residents were advised to be extremely careful with any open flames, including those coming from burning cigarettes and outdoor power equipment that may often lead to sparks.

Meanwhile, cool or cold air is associated with a Santa Ana wind event.

Research has shown that in the wake of a chilly Santa Ana during the late fall, winter and early spring, a frost or freeze can actually occur in cold spots.

These are areas where the sky remains clear and the breezes subside.