Janice R. Andrews
Southern California is on high alert as another round of extreme fire weather is expected next week, with winds reaching up to 80 mph and dangerously low humidity levels. This new threat comes as communities like Pacific Palisades and Altadena struggle to recover from catastrophic wildfires earlier this month, which caused significant destruction and loss of life.
“This deep into the winter, or rainy season, we’re in uncharted territory with barely any rain,” said Alex Tardy, a National Weather Service meteorologist in San Diego, describing the unprecedented conditions.
Prolonged Fire Danger Ahead
The return of high fire risk is forecast to begin Monday, with the most dangerous conditions expected Monday night through Tuesday morning. The threat could persist until Thursday, according to meteorologist Rose Schoenfeld from the weather service in Oxnard. Red flag warnings are likely for Los Angeles and Ventura counties due to the heightened fire weather risks.
Southern California’s extended dry spell is worsening the situation. The region is experiencing the driest start to a water year on record, with rainfall levels far below average. Downtown Los Angeles has recorded just 0.16 inches of rain since October 1, compared to the usual 5.78 inches by this time of year—only 3% of normal rainfall.
Adding to the concerns, downtown L.A. has now experienced 257 consecutive days without a single day of at least one-tenth of an inch of rain, surpassing the previous record of 253 days set in 2008.
Santa Ana Winds and Low Humidity Forecast
Strong Santa Ana winds are expected to intensify early next week, with sustained gusts of 45 to 65 mph predicted across Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Mountainous and foothill areas could see gusts as high as 80 mph. These winds, predominantly from the northeast to east, are forecast to affect Ventura County and elevated regions of western Los Angeles County.
Humidity levels are also expected to plummet, reaching as low as 5% in areas like Thousand Oaks, Oxnard, Canoga Park, and Santa Clarita. Schoenfeld emphasized the need for residents to prepare in advance by packing essential items, readying vehicles, and mapping out evacuation routes.
Communities Struggle with Wildfire Aftermath
The region is still grappling with the devastation caused by the Palisades and Eaton fires, which together have destroyed over 11,000 structures, claimed at least 27 lives, and displaced numerous residents. As of Sunday, the Palisades fire had burned 23,713 acres and was 52% contained, while the Eaton fire had scorched 14,117 acres and was 81% contained. Efforts to find missing fire victims continue.
Slim Rainfall Prospects Offer Little Relief
While there is a slight chance of rain—about 20% to 30%—between January 25 and February 1, meteorologists warn that it will likely be minimal and insufficient to end the ongoing fire season. “It doesn’t look like the kind of rain that would bring a definitive end to fire weather season,” Schoenfeld said.
Preparedness Is Key
Officials are urging residents to remain vigilant as conditions worsen. “When the winds pick up, stay clear of trees, windows, and exercise extreme caution with anything that could ignite a fire,” Schoenfeld advised.
As Southern California braces for more severe fire weather, fueled by drought and strong winds, preparedness and caution remain critical. The region’s record-setting dry spell highlights the increasing challenges of managing fire risk in a changing climate.
