Intense Santa Ana Winds to Pound Southern California

Gusts up to 65 mph expected, with potential for power outages and dangerous travel conditions

Apr. 2, 2026 at 9:40pm

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A vast, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of gray, blue, and green, capturing the sweeping, dramatic scale of a coastal region under the influence of intense winds. The natural elements, such as swirling clouds and crashing waves, dominate the scene, dwarfing any physical structures or objects.The powerful Santa Ana winds that will batter Southern California this weekend serve as a reminder of the region's vulnerability to the forces of nature.Los Angeles Today

The National Weather Service has issued a high-wind warning for parts of Southern California, as intense Santa Ana winds are forecast to batter the region from Friday through Saturday. Wind gusts could reach up to 65 mph in some areas, potentially causing widespread power outages, downed trees and power lines, and hazardous driving conditions.

Why it matters

Santa Ana wind events are a regular occurrence in Southern California, but this weekend's forecast calls for particularly strong and potentially damaging gusts. These winds can pose a serious threat to public safety, infrastructure, and the region's power grid, underscoring the need for residents to be prepared and take necessary precautions.

The details

The National Weather Service expects the winds to begin ramping up on Friday, with gusts of 25 to 45 mph in Los Angeles County and up to 60 mph in parts of Ventura County. By Saturday, Ventura County could see gusts between 20 and 30 mph, with isolated gusts of 40 mph. San Diego County is also expected to see winds of 20 to 40 mph on Friday. A high-wind warning has been issued for the western San Gabriel Mountains and Highway 14 corridor, where northeast winds between 25 and 40 mph, with gusts up to 65 mph, are anticipated.

  • The wind event is expected to begin on Friday and continue through Saturday.
  • A high-wind warning is in effect for the western San Gabriel Mountains and Highway 14 corridor from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday.

The players

National Weather Service

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

Mike Wofford

A meteorologist with the National Weather Service who provided commentary on the expected wind event.

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What they’re saying

“It's gusty but probably not going to be all that impactful.”

— Mike Wofford, Meteorologist, National Weather Service

What’s next

The National Weather Service recommends that residents in the affected areas take precautions, such as securing outdoor items, avoiding creating sparks, and leaving extra time for travel due to the gusty winds.

The takeaway

This weekend's Santa Ana wind event serves as a reminder of the region's vulnerability to powerful natural forces and the importance of being prepared for potential power outages, debris, and hazardous driving conditions. Residents should heed the weather service's warnings and take appropriate safety measures.