Los Angeles, January 10, 2026
Los Angeles is facing significant weather challenges as high wind warnings are issued due to the return of Santa Ana winds. With gusts potentially reaching 70 mph, particularly in mountainous areas, the National Weather Service has advised residents to secure loose items and be cautious while driving. The wind event could lead to fallen trees and power outages, raising concerns in communities already impacted by saturated soil from recent rains. Safety measures are recommended as residents prepare for gusty conditions expected to last through the weekend.
Los Angeles, CA – High Wind Warnings Issued as Santa Ana Winds Return
Los Angeles, CA – A strong Santa Ana wind event is currently affecting Southern California, leading to high wind warnings throughout the region. The National Weather Service (NWS) has alerted communities particularly in the San Gabriel Mountains and the 14 Freeway corridor, where gusts may reach up to 70 mph. These intense wind conditions are forecasted to last through the weekend, with the most powerful gusts expected during morning hours, gradually easing later in the day. Residents are encouraged to secure loose items and drive cautiously, especially those in high-profile vehicles. The saturated soils from recent rains raise the risk of downed trees and power lines, causing potential disruptions.
Details of the Wind Advisory
The NWS has placed a high wind warning in effect until 1 p.m. Sunday for multiple mountain areas, including the Santa Susana Mountains, San Gabriel Mountains, Oat Mountain, and Mount Wilson, as well as the Highway 14 corridor and the communities of Wrightwood, Mill Creek, Acton, and Warm Springs. Predictions indicate northeast winds of 25 to 40 mph with gusts reaching up to 70 mph. This persistent wind condition could contribute to power outages and obstruct travel, particularly for taller vehicles. Residents are advised to retreat to lower levels of their homes during the storm and to avoid windows.
Impact on Local Communities
On Thursday, high winds resulted in significant traffic disruptions, including an overturned tractor trailer on the southbound lanes of the 5 Freeway near Pyramid Lake. The NWS has also issued wind advisories for surrounding areas, including the valleys of San Bernardino and Riverside counties, with winds expected to hit speeds of 15 to 25 mph and gusts ranging between 35 and 45 mph. Local gusts as high as 55 mph are possible below the Cajon Pass, underscoring the need for vigilant community awareness during this wind event.
Historical Context
Reflecting on the beginning of January 2025, a similar weather pattern was observed, driven by a strong high-pressure system over the Great Basin. This resulted in intense Santa Ana winds, compounded by a prolonged absence of rainfall—nearly eight months—which pushed the region into moderate drought conditions. These circumstances were instrumental in sparking the Palisades and Eaton fires, which caused extensive destruction covering 59 square miles, leading to the loss of over 16,000 structures and numerous lives. The challenges faced in fire suppression during such wind events remain a critical topic for community preparedness and resilience.
Safety Recommendations
Residents are strongly urged to take precautionary measures during this windstorm by securing outdoor objects like patio furniture and planters, and to drive with heightened caution. Those in high-profile vehicles are particularly encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel when possible. Staying updated on local weather alerts can provide valuable information for making informed decisions throughout the windy conditions.
Forecast
After the windy weekend, temperatures are likely to rise, with highs predicted at 66 degrees on Saturday and 70 degrees on Sunday. Overnight lows are expected to drop into the low-to-mid 40s. The warming trend will continue into the following week, with temperatures anticipated to reach 73 degrees on Monday, 75 degrees on Tuesday, and peaking at 78 degrees on Wednesday and Thursday.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What areas are under high wind warnings in Southern California?
The National Weather Service has issued high wind warnings for areas including the San Gabriel Mountains and the 14 Freeway corridor, where gusts up to 70 mph are possible. These conditions are expected to persist through the weekend.
What should residents do during this wind event?
Residents are advised to secure loose objects, exercise caution when driving—especially high-profile vehicles—and stay informed about local weather updates. It is also recommended to remain in the lower levels of homes during the windstorm and to avoid windows.
How do current conditions compare to last year’s windstorm?
In early January 2025, a similar system created a steep pressure gradient, leading to significant Santa Ana winds. This period was marked by drought conditions and resulted in devastating fires, highlighting the risks associated with such weather patterns.
What is the forecast for the upcoming week?
After the windy weekend, temperatures are expected to rise, with highs forecasted at 66 degrees Saturday and 70 degrees Sunday. Overnight lows will remain cool, dropping into the low-to-mid 40s. The warming trend will extend into next week, with highs expected to reach 73 degrees Monday, 75 degrees Tuesday, and 78 degrees Wednesday and Thursday.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Wind Gusts | Up to 70 mph in certain areas, with the highest winds occurring in the morning hours before easing later in the day. |
| Advisory Areas | San Gabriel Mountains, 14 Freeway corridor, Santa Susana Mountains, Oat Mountain, Mount Wilson, Mount Baldy, Angeles Crest Highway, Wrightwood, Mill Creek, Acton, and Warm Springs. |
| Safety Recommendations | Secure loose objects, exercise caution when driving—especially high-profile vehicles—and stay informed about local weather updates. |
| Historical Context | In early January 2025, strong winds and drought conditions led to the Palisades and Eaton fires, sparking conversations about community preparedness. |
| Forecast | After the windy weekend, temperatures are expected to rise, with highs forecasted at 66 degrees Saturday and 70 degrees Sunday, continuing a warming trend into the following week. |
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