Santa Ana winds ignite red flag warnings, fire concerns for Southern California

Gusty Santa Ana winds and warmer temperatures have officials concerned about an increased chance of wildfires erupting in Southern California heading into the weekend.

Red flag warnings have been issued for most mountain and valley locations of Los Angeles and Ventura counties from 9 a.m. Friday through 6 p.m. Saturday.

Forecasters expect wind gusts to reach 45 mph with isolated bursts to 55 mph possible in the hills and mountains, according to the National Weather Service.

Red flag parking restrictions to assist firefighters’ response efforts will also be in effect in Los Angeles beginning at 9 a.m. Friday.

“We’re going to have two, three engine task forces that are going to be predeployed at select neighborhood fire stations that are in or near areas that are prone to wildfires,” Los Angeles Fire Department Capt. Erik Scott said.

In addition, Scott said the Fire Department will have “additional staffing for our air operations, our helicopter staff. We also are having brush patrols. That’s a four-wheel drive vehicle that can get up into the hills and put out small fires while they’re small.”

An interactive map detailing the streets affected by the fire warning can be found on the City of Los Angeles website .

Red flag warnings will also be in place Friday for most areas of the Inland Empire.

“If fire ignition occurs, conditions are favorable for rapid fire spread and extreme fire behavior which would threaten life and property,” the Weather Service stated.

The gusty winds should begin to taper off by Sunday.

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