SoCal Braces for Powerful Winds This Week & Weekend

Gusts up to 75 mph expected, raising fire danger and hazardous driving conditions

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Gusty winds are anticipated across Southern California through Friday, with the potential for even stronger offshore winds into the weekend, according to the National Weather Service. High wind warnings have been issued for parts of Los Angeles County, with forecasts calling for northwest winds of 25 to 40 mph and gusts up to 65 mph in the San Gabriel Mountains and along the 14 Freeway corridor.

Why it matters

Offshore wind events are common in Southern California during the fall and winter, and can exacerbate fire danger while also creating hazardous driving conditions due to reduced visibility and the potential for downed power lines. These strong winds have the potential to cause property damage and power outages across the region.

The details

The National Weather Service warns these winds could move unsecured objects, down tree limbs, and cause isolated power outages. Gusts may reach 60 mph in parts of the Santa Susana Mountains. Meteorologists say the winds could strengthen further on Saturday, with gusts of 60 to 75 mph possible in the mountains and foothills. Across Riverside and San Bernardino counties, northern winds are expected to strengthen Thursday and Friday, with inland valleys and foothill communities potentially seeing winds of 20 to 25 mph and gusts of 40 mph.

  • A high wind warning is in effect for Los Angeles County from 9 p.m. Wednesday, March 4, through 9 a.m. Thursday, March 5.
  • Stronger offshore winds are possible on Saturday, March 7, with the potential for 60 to 75 mph gusts in the mountains and foothills.
  • There is also a slight chance of light precipitation from late Saturday night, March 7, through Monday, March 9, primarily in mountain and desert areas.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing weather-related warnings across the United States.

Carol Ciliberti

A meteorologist who stated that the weekend wind event has the potential to be stronger, with 60 to 75 mph winds in the mountains and foothills.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The next event on Saturday has the potential to be stronger, with 60 to 75 mph winds in the mountains, and foothills.”

— Carol Ciliberti, Meteorologist (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

As conditions evolve, residents across Southern California should monitor weather forecasts and be prepared for potentially hazardous wind conditions that could impact travel, power, and property.

The takeaway

These powerful offshore wind events are a regular occurrence in Southern California, and can pose significant risks to public safety and infrastructure. Residents should stay vigilant, secure loose outdoor items, and heed any weather warnings or advisories issued by local authorities.