Residents of Southern California are bracing for the strongest winds in over a decade, with potential gusts reaching up to 80 mph (129 kph) in Los Angeles and Ventura counties. The National Weather Service has issued warnings of possible structural damage and extreme fire risk due to the dry conditions prevailing in the region.
The windstorm is expected to peak in the early hours of Wednesday, with isolated gusts possibly exceeding 100 mph (160 kph) in mountainous areas. The powerful offshore gusts are anticipated to impact coastal regions, including Catalina Island, leading to potential disruptions at local airports.
Public safety power shutoffs are being considered for nearly 300,000 customers in the affected areas to prevent potential hazards. The upcoming winds are described as an 'atmospheric blow-dryer' by climate scientists, posing a significant fire risk to the already parched vegetation in the region.
Southern California has experienced minimal rainfall since early May, resulting in moderate drought conditions as per the U.S. Drought Monitor. The lack of precipitation, combined with the dry winds, has elevated temperatures and heightened the fire danger.
Areas previously affected by wildfires, such as the Franklin Fire in Malibu last month, are particularly vulnerable to extreme fire conditions. The region is still reeling from the impact of nearly 8,000 wildfires that ravaged over 1,560 square miles in the state last year.
The last wind event of this magnitude occurred in November 2011, leading to widespread power outages affecting over 400,000 customers in LA County. Southern California Edison is preparing for potential power shutoffs to safeguard the public from debris hitting power lines or trees falling due to the strong winds.
Residents are advised to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions as the region braces for the impending windstorm and heightened fire risk.
