| Dear Community Members,
Ventura County is preparing for the first Santa Ana wind event of the season, with strong winds, hot and dry conditions, and an elevated risk of wildfires expected across the region. Residents are encouraged to prepare for potential Southern California Edison (SCE) power outages, take necessary safety precautions, and stay informed as weather conditions evolve throughout the week.
The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning from Thursday, October 15, at 6:00 a.m. through Friday, October 16, at 10:00 p.m. This wind event is expected to bring sustained winds of 25–40 mph, with gusts potentially exceeding 50 mph across our valleys, coastal communities, and mountain areas.
Hot, dry conditions are expected to continue through Saturday, with temperatures reaching the upper 80s and 90s and humidity dropping as low as 5–15%. These conditions significantly increase wildfire risk and the potential for rapid fire spread.
Southern California Edison is currently monitoring 88 electrical circuits throughout Ventura County for possible Public Safety Power Shutoffs. This could impact approximately 125,000 Ventura County residents. The period of concern begins at midnight on Thursday, October 15, and continues through 6:00 p.m. on Friday, October 16.
I encourage residents to take a few simple precautions:
- Secure outdoor furniture, decorations, and other loose items.
- Charge phones, medical devices, and essential electronics.
- Prepare flashlights, batteries, and emergency supplies in case of power outages.
- Avoid activities that could create sparks or ignite dry vegetation.
- Stay informed through official weather and emergency updates.
For the latest information, please visit:
Please take time to prepare, check on neighbors who may need assistance, and stay alert as conditions develop. Thank you for doing your part to keep Ventura County safe.
Jeff Gorell
Ventura County Supervisor, District 2
Chair, Ventura County Board of Supervisors |
