Southern California Forecast to see Significant Changes: Santa Ana Wind Event forecast across region

As of this morning, the marine layer has risen to 3,000 feet and is projected to reach 4,000 feet by Thursday.Photo byInggrid KoeonUnsplash

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Los Angeles/Oxnard is forecasting a significant change in weather patterns for Southern California over the next few days. Following a stretch of warmer temperatures, residents can expect cooler conditions today and tomorrow, along with a deepening marine layer that may bring some drizzle to coastal and valley areas.

As of this morning, the marine layer has risen to 3,000 feet and is projected to reach 4,000 feet by Thursday. The persistent marine layer will likely slow clearing in coastal and valley regions, resulting in temperatures that are expected to be 6 to 12 degrees below normal. While drizzle was minimal this morning, the arrival of an upper low from the north on Thursday, combined with the deepening marine layer and onshore flow, is expected to increase the chances of light rain, particularly in Los Angeles County and the lower coastal slopes.

The weather will take a dramatic turn late Thursday night as northerly winds pick up, setting the stage for a Santa Ana wind event on Friday and Saturday. This shift will bring warmer temperatures and lower humidity levels across the region. Current models indicate that areas typically affected by Santa Ana winds, such as the Highway 14 corridor from Acton to Fillmore, the western San Fernando Valley, Simi Valley, Conejo Valley, Camarillo, Oxnard, and potentially Ventura, will likely experience moderate wind advisories.