dailyloe.com – Southern California is preparing for strong winds this weekend, which may increase wildfire risks and create hazardous sea conditions. The National Weather Service forecasts the strongest gusts on Friday night and Saturday, particularly along the Interstate 5 corridor and the Santa Ynez Mountains.
Forecasters indicate a 70% chance of wind gusts reaching 40 to 55 mph, with a 20% chance of exceeding 60 mph. On the Central Coast, gusts of 30 to 40 mph are expected on Saturday and Sunday.
Mike Wofford, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Oxnard, noted that drying soil and vegetation could elevate fire weather conditions. He mentioned that while the risks are higher this weekend, it may take one to two months for fuels to reach critical dryness for large fire spread.
In addition to winds, temperatures are predicted to be slightly cooler, averaging 5 degrees below normal over the weekend. This change could impact fire behavior, but the primary concern remains the winds.
The winds are also expected to generate dangerous ocean waves. Gale warnings will be in effect for outer waters and the Santa Barbara Channel, with gusts likely reaching gale force levels starting Friday afternoon.
Local storm force gusts may occur late Saturday afternoon and evening in outer waters from the Central Coast to San Nicolas Island. The National Weather Service has warned that these conditions may capsize or damage vessels.
High surf advisories are issued from 3 p.m. Friday to 9 a.m. Monday for San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties. Large breaking waves could reach between 5 to 15 feet, posing risks of sweeping beachgoers into the ocean and creating hazardous rip currents.
These conditions are expected to affect popular beaches and swimming areas, requiring caution for both swimmers and vessels. The weather service emphasizes awareness of the risks associated with these high surf and wind conditions.
