Southern California Weather Update: Winds Calm, But Danger Looms This Weekend

For the last few days, Southern California has enjoyed a brief lull in the severe weather conditions, with winds that were strong enough to have kept wildlife like Jackie, a local bird, clinging to the nest. But the calm won't last much longer, as winds are expected to pick up again by the weekend.

Currently, temperatures in the region are near seasonal averages, with highs in the low 70s and light northerly winds. While some gusts are still felt near the Palisades fire, especially in the mountains, the situation has improved for the time being. As of today, temperatures are close to normal, and conditions are dry and mild across most of Southern California.

However, looking toward the weekend, the forecast is less optimistic. A frontal system moving southward will bring gusty winds to the region, particularly in wind-prone areas. Temperatures will dip into the upper 60s by Sunday and into the middle 60s by Monday, while gusty Santa Ana winds will again elevate the fire danger, especially in areas with dry air and low humidity. The wind will begin to back off slightly by Monday, but cooler conditions will persist.

In addition to fire risk, an air quality alert remains in effect due to windblown dust across the area, affecting air quality from the Coachella Valley and beyond.

Despite the approaching frontal system, no rain is expected in the coming week, and the dry conditions will persist. For those in the Coachella Valley, temperatures will range from middle 30s in some areas like Mecca to middle 40s in Palm Springs. On Sunday night through Monday morning, chilly air is expected to settle in, with some areas experiencing freezing temperatures.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant as wind and fire danger could worsen in the coming days, with continued dry conditions and gusty winds expected to last into the weekend.