Los Angeles, CA — Strong Santa Ana winds will continue to sweep across Southern California through Thursday afternoon, bringing hazardous travel conditions, power outage risks, and damaging wind gusts across Los Angeles and Ventura Counties.
Intense Wind Pattern Persists Across the Region
The National Weather Service in Los Angeles/Oxnard reports that “strong northeast winds of 25 to 40 mph, with gusts up to 55 mph” will continue through 3 p.m. Thursday. A Wind Advisory remains in effect for several areas, including the Santa Clarita Valley, Ventura County, Malibu Coast, the Santa Monica Mountains, and surrounding foothill communities.
Meteorologists note that the strongest gusts may ramp up overnight and linger into Thursday morning — especially across the I-5 Corridor, Santa Susana Mountains, and eastern Ventura County. According to the NWS, “the most intense gusts will be felt in mountain and canyon locations.”
Areas Facing the Highest Impact
The advisory covers a large portion of Southern California’s wind-prone areas, where downslope wind acceleration often amplifies Santa Ana events. Locations such as Malibu, Stevenson Ranch, Thousand Oaks, and the Santa Monica Mountains are expected to see the highest gusts, with scattered reports of blowing dust and reduced visibility.
Wet soil from November’s rainfall increases the risk of downed branches and weakened trees, which can contribute to localized outages. The NWS added that “these gusty winds could down tree limbs, knock over unsecured objects, and lead to isolated power outages.”
Travel Concerns for High-Profile Vehicles
Strong crosswinds will make travel more dangerous, particularly for trucks, RVs, vans, and trailers traveling through wind corridors. Officials warn that driving may be difficult on I-5, especially near the Grapevine, as well as along Highway 14 and the 101 corridor between Calabasas and Ventura.
Canyon roads, mountain passes, and exposed stretches of freeway are likely to experience the harshest impacts. Drivers are urged to slow down, maintain extra space between vehicles, and remain alert for sudden gusts that may cause swerving.
What to Expect Tonight and Thursday
While some brief lulls are possible Wednesday evening, forecasters caution residents not to let their guard down. The NWS states that “stronger, widespread gusts are likely to return late tonight into Thursday afternoon.”
Temperatures will remain cool under the offshore flow pattern, but humidity levels are not expected to drop as low as during typical Santa Ana events. Even so, scattered dry pockets could still elevate fire weather concerns in the driest foothill zones.
Safety Steps for Residents
Authorities recommend taking steps to stay safe during the wind advisory:
- Secure outdoor items such as patio furniture, umbrellas, decorations, and trash bins
- Avoid parking under trees or power lines
- Use caution when driving, especially if operating a high-profile vehicle
- Stay alert for sudden road hazards such as debris or fallen limbs
- Prepare for brief power interruptions
Local officials emphasize that strong winds combined with the region’s dry vegetation can still pose risks, even outside of Red Flag Warning criteria.
Conclusion
Southern California is set to endure another round of strong Santa Ana winds through Thursday afternoon, with gusts approaching “55 mph” in several wind-prone areas. Residents should take precautions, stay informed through NWS updates, and prepare for potential disruptions as winds strengthen again overnight.
Share Your Experience
What wind conditions did you notice in your neighborhood today? Share your observations in the comments below.
