Gusty Winds Expected to Batter Southern California

Wind advisory issued as Santa Ana wind event possible later this week

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Another round of gusty winds is expected to hit Southern California on Wednesday and continue into Thursday, with a potentially stronger Santa Ana wind event possible starting as early as Friday morning. The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for the Antelope Valley, Santa Clarita and San Fernando valleys, Calabasas and Agoura Hills, where winds could reach up to 50 mph.

Why it matters

Strong winds can create travel hazards across major freeways, cause airport delays, and potentially lead to power outages and damage to property. The region has experienced several wind events in recent years, with the Santa Ana winds often being the most powerful and destructive.

The details

According to the National Weather Service, northerly winds will develop across the region sometime Wednesday afternoon, creating gusty conditions in the mountains and traditionally wind-prone north-south corridors. The winds will then strengthen and expand, moving into the San Fernando Valley, the Santa Monica Mountains and western Los Angeles County coastal areas. Wind gusts in the 35-50 mph range will be common, and a few areas may see localized damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph.

  • A wind advisory will be in place from 4 p.m. Wednesday to 9 a.m. Thursday in the Antelope Valley and Antelope Valley foothills.
  • A similar advisory will be in place from 6 p.m. Wednesday to 9 a.m. Thursday in the Santa Clarita and San Fernando valleys, Calabasas and Agoura Hills.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related advisories and warnings.

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The takeaway

The upcoming wind event highlights the ongoing challenge of managing the impacts of extreme weather in Southern California, which can disrupt transportation, infrastructure, and daily life for residents. Preparing for and responding to these types of events requires coordination between local authorities, emergency services, and the public.