Santa Ana Winds Bring Warmer Weather to Southern California

Gusts up to 55 mph expected in some areas as temperatures reach 80-90 degrees this week.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 9:15pm

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A round of Santa Ana winds is expected to bring warmer and drier weather to Southern California this week, with temperatures reaching around 80-90 degrees. The National Weather Service has issued a Next Weather Alert for the valleys, mountains and inland areas of Los Angeles and Orange Counties, as well as much of the Inland Empire, as the winds are forecast to gust between 45-50 mph, with isolated gusts of 55 mph in some areas.

Why it matters

The Santa Ana winds are a common weather phenomenon in Southern California, bringing hot, dry air from the desert that can increase fire risk and impact daily life. This warm, dry weather could set new temperature records and affect activities and plans for residents across the region.

The details

The Santa Ana wind event is expected to impact the valleys, mountains and inland areas of Los Angeles and Orange Counties, as well as much of the Inland Empire. The winds will not affect the beaches, deserts or the LA basin. Temperatures are forecast to reach around 80-90 degrees, which could set new record highs for this time of year. The warming trend is expected to last through the week, with temperatures dropping back down to around 73 degrees by Friday.

  • The Santa Ana winds are expected to arrive on Wednesday, February 5, 2026.
  • Temperatures are forecast to reach 80-90 degrees on Wednesday, February 5, 2026.
  • Temperatures are expected to drop to around 73 degrees by Friday, February 7, 2026.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather alerts and advisories.

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What’s next

Residents in the affected areas should prepare for the warm, dry conditions and increased fire risk by taking precautions such as avoiding outdoor activities during the peak wind hours, securing loose outdoor items, and being vigilant for any signs of fire.

The takeaway

The upcoming Santa Ana wind event is a regular occurrence in Southern California, but the warm, dry conditions it brings can still significantly impact daily life and increase the risk of wildfires. Residents should stay informed about the forecast and take appropriate safety measures.