Rare Back-to-Back Santa Ana Wind Events Threaten Southern California

Powerful offshore winds could bring power outages and hazardous travel conditions this week.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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Southern California is bracing for two consecutive Santa Ana wind events, with the first starting late Wednesday and a more significant event beginning on Friday. The winds could reach up to 65 mph in higher elevations, raising concerns about localized power outages, downed trees, and hazardous driving conditions.

Why it matters

Santa Ana winds are a regular occurrence in Southern California, but back-to-back events are rare and can pose serious risks to the region. While there is no immediate wildfire danger due to the wet winter, the strong winds can still cause significant disruptions and property damage.

The details

The first Santa Ana event is expected to peak late Wednesday into Thursday morning, with gusts up to 50 mph in most areas and up to 65 mph in higher elevations. The second, more powerful event is forecast to start on Friday, with wind gusts potentially reaching 70 mph at higher elevations. Both events could lead to localized power outages, travel delays, and downed trees.

  • The first Santa Ana wind event is expected to begin late Wednesday and peak late Wednesday into Thursday morning.
  • The second, more significant Santa Ana wind event is forecast to start on Friday and peak on Saturday afternoon, diminishing by Sunday.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency that monitors and forecasts weather conditions in the United States, including issuing warnings for hazardous weather events like the upcoming Santa Ana winds.

FOX Forecast Center

The weather forecasting division of the FOX News media network, which has provided detailed analysis and predictions for the back-to-back Santa Ana wind events in Southern California.

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What they’re saying

“Residents should be on alert for the potential of localized downed trees and power outages.”

— National Weather Service, Los Angeles office (foxweather.com)

“Seeing two distinct Santa Ana wind events so close together is unusual.”

— FOX Forecast Center (foxweather.com)

What’s next

Residents in Southern California should monitor weather forecasts closely and prepare for potential power outages and hazardous driving conditions during the upcoming Santa Ana wind events.

The takeaway

While Santa Ana winds are a common occurrence in Southern California, the back-to-back nature of these events raises concerns about the potential for widespread disruptions and property damage. Residents and local authorities must remain vigilant and prepared to respond to any emergencies that may arise.