Powerful Santa Ana winds are currently sweeping across Southern California, prompting concerns about potential widespread power outages and heightened wildfire risks. As of Monday morning, officials are contemplating safety-related power shutoffs that could affect over 170,000 customers in the region.
The National Weather Service has issued wind advisories for several counties, including Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura. These advisories are expected to remain in effect through Monday afternoon, with another round of strong winds forecasted for Wednesday and Thursday.
Wind speeds are predicted to reach alarming levels, with gusts up to 80 mph in mountainous areas and 55 mph in coastal and valley regions. Such intense winds pose significant dangers, including the potential for downed trees and power lines.
Southern California Edison (SCE) is closely monitoring the situation, prepared to implement preemptive power shutoffs if deemed necessary to mitigate wildfire risks. As of early Monday, no shutoffs had been initiated, but several areas remain under close watch:
- Los Angeles County: 35,713 customers
- Orange County: 8,154 customers
- Riverside County: 38,174 customers
- San Bernardino County: 50,277 customers
- Ventura County: 38,011 customers
Residents in affected areas are advised to stay informed about potential power shutoffs and to prepare accordingly. Motorists, especially those operating high-profile vehicles, are urged to exercise extreme caution due to strong crosswinds.
As Southern California braces for this weather event, authorities emphasize the importance of staying alert and following safety guidelines to minimize risks associated with these powerful Santa Ana winds.