Southern California Braces for Destructive Windstorm, Wildfire Risk

LOS ANGELES (AP) — A potentially destructive and life-threatening windstorm is sweeping across Southern California, raising the risk of wildfires and prompting widespread warnings. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued red flag warnings for Los Angeles and Ventura counties, with gusts expected to reach up to 80 mph and isolated peaks of 100 mph in mountainous areas.

The windstorm, which began Tuesday afternoon, is forecast to peak early Wednesday, affecting regions including the Malibu coast, Santa Monica Mountains, San Gabriel Valley, and San Fernando Valley. The NWS described it as one of the strongest windstorms in over a decade, with high winds expected to persist until Thursday evening.

Authorities are on high alert as the powerful gusts threaten to topple trees, damage power lines, and spark wildfires. A 30-acre brush fire broke out Tuesday morning near North Piedra Morada Drive, north of the Palisades Hills Recreation Center, though no evacuations were immediately ordered. Firefighters are working to contain the blaze amid challenging conditions.

The South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) issued an air quality advisory for multiple cities, including Santa Clarita, Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Riverside. The advisory, in effect until Wednesday evening, warns of high levels of PM10 particles due to gusty Santa Ana winds, which can lift dust and soil into the air. The winds may also disperse ash from recent wildfire burn scars, further exacerbating air quality concerns.

In response to the dangerous conditions, the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District closed all Malibu schools Tuesday, while Santa Monica schools remained open. Superintendent Antonio Shelton emphasized the district’s commitment to safety, stating, “We share your concerns, and our thoughts are with the Malibu community during this challenging weather event.”

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) urged residents to prepare for potential power outages by keeping flashlights, charged cell phones, and portable chargers on hand. The agency also warned against approaching downed power lines, advising residents to report them immediately to 911.

As the windstorm continues, officials are closely monitoring the situation and urging residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.