The powerful Santa Ana winds, also known as “Devil Winds,” are a recurring fixture in Southern California. But when they’re paired with wildfire conditions, the result can be catastrophic, as we’ve seen this week around Los Angeles. Here are some answers to common questions about the notorious weather phenomenon.
What are the Santa Ana winds?
According to the National Weather Service, the Santa Ana winds form over the southwestern U.S.’s desert region and funnel east-to-west through Southern California’s mountain passages. As the winds flow down the mountains, the air accelerates and compresses, resulting in lower humidity and higher temperatures. It’s not uncommon for the winds to reach speeds of 60-80 mph, but the strongest gusts can sometimes reach up to 100 mph, according to the BBC.
What time of year are the Santa Ana winds?
According to the NWS, the Santa Ana winds are most common from September through May, when temperatures are cooler. They usually occur between 10 and 25 times per year.
How do the Santa Ana winds affect wildfires?
The Santa Ana winds fuel wildfires via the following conditions, according to AP News’ recent articles about high winds and time of year.
- Lack of humidity contributes to dryer vegetation
- Variation in air pressure due to mountainous terrain causes erratic wind movement
- Wind speed correlates with the speed of fire spread, because fire-sparking embers can travel miles
In comparison to summer fires, winter fires “are much more destructive because they happen much more quickly,” U.S. Geological Survey fire scientist Jon Keeley told AP News.
How can I follow wind conditions?
Follow the National Weather Service to keep up with wind speed projections in Southern California, and how they affect fire conditions.
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