High winds and extremely dry conditions across much of Southern California have prompted red flag warnings from weather officials due to the increased risk of fire.
The upcoming Santa Ana winds are expected to increase in intensity Sunday evening in the Riverside and Temecula Valley areas, with most gusts reaching speeds between 15 and 25 miles per hour. According to the National Weather Service, some wind gusts could reach between 35 and 45 miles per hour, with highest levels possibly reaching 55 miles per hour.
Officials are encouraging residents to avoid outdoor burning in the coming days during the red flag warning because “any fire that develops is likely to spread quickly.”
Additionally, the South Coast Air Quality Management District has issued a windblown dust advisory for most of the Inland Empire, including the Coachella Valley and San Gorgonio Pass, as the air quality index reaches unhealthy levels during the high winds. The advice applies until Monday evening 6 p.m.
Although temperatures across the area are not expected to rise above 80 degrees, with most regions in the mid to low 70s, fire danger remains high due to dry conditions.
In Los Angeles County, strong wind gusts toppled trees in places like Boyle Heights and Reseda on Sunday. Although no one was injured in either case, the fallen trees blocked busy roads and left a van badly damaged.
Travelers flying into Burbank Airport reported their landing times were delayed by up to 20 minutes after airport officials closed all but one runway due to winds.
