The strong and cold winds from Santa Ana are expected to blow in southern California starting Monday night, with gusts up to 90 miles per hour in the mountains, according to the National Weather Service.
Widespread damaging winds are expected across Los Angeles County and the surrounding region. Winds have the potential to knock down trees or power lines from now until Wednesday.
Winds can blow 60 to 75 miles per hour from the Hollywood Hills to Malibu and the San Fernando and San Gabriel valleys, said Todd Hall, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service in Oxnard. The weather service issued a red flag alert for Los Angeles and Ventura counties from Monday night until Tuesday night.
“There is a very good threat from overturned power lines,” said Hall, and residents should be aware of their surroundings when leaving the house. On Tuesday, drivers should also expect wind conditions due to crosswinds. Winds also have the potential to contribute to potential fire conditions, which are further exacerbated by the lack of rain, Hall said.
Due to extreme conditions, Anaheim officials announced the closure of the distribution site for the COVID-19 vaccine at Disneyland. Orange County started using the resort as a “super” vaccination site last week. Because of the closure, Tuesday’s appointments will be rescheduled.
In Los Angeles County, fire chief Daryl L. Osby announced more employees across the county.
In addition, the Los Angeles County Emergency Management Office “will be on high alert” to respond to conditions, said Kevin McGowan, director of the office. Residents must also be ready to evacuate “at any time, especially if you live in canyon, mountain or foothills communities,” he said.
The Santa Ana winds are particularly cold this time. The Los Angeles County Health Officer has extended a cold weather alert to some places in LA County, including Lancaster and the mountains, where temperatures are expected to drop below 32 degrees.
The National Meteorological Service is also asking sailors to be cautious too, especially around Catalina Island, where winds are contributing to large waves. The weather service also warned of high waves and dangerous currents on Tuesday night along the coast.