AccuWeather.com

By Bill Deger, Meteorologist

Jan 27, 2012; 7:03 AM ET

Share |

A strong offshore flow developing to begin the weekend will trigger a potentially damaging Santa Ana wind event across parts of the greater Los Angeles area.

The combination of the strong winds and plunging humidity levels will also raise the threat for brush and wildfires across Southern California.

The culprit for the gusty winds, as is usually the case, is a benign area of high pressure building across the interior West. Winds blowing offshore as a result of the high pressure will be amplified as they head down the mountains and hills outside of Los Angeles.

Wind gusts of 50 to 60 mph will be possible in those areas prone to Santa Ana winds, including in Santa Clarita, Simi Valley, Riverside, Anaheim and Newport Beach, beginning later this afternoon and persisting through Saturday afternoon.

The highest gusts, possibly in excess of 60 mph, will occur through and below canyons and passes late this evening into Saturday morning.

Wind speeds of this magnitude will make it difficult for motorists driving larger, high-profile vehicles to steer at times. Driving at reduced speeds is recommended through locations experiencing stronger gusts.

Homeowners should also take measures to reduce the chance for minor property damage, such as securing loose objects and, if possible, moving cars away from trees and tree limbs that could come crashing down.

This will also reduce the chance of some items becoming dangerous flying projectiles.

While, some Santa Ana winds are associated with cooler air, this event is bringing the more typical warm air.

With humidity expected to become very low Saturday, any fire that might be sparked during the event will spread rapidly, potentially threatening lives and property.

A lack of sufficient rain this season is contributing to low moisture content in the brush.

Because of the elevated wild fire threat, use caution when using outdoor power equipment and open flames. Don't toss burning cigarette butts out the window. Don't park vehicles over tall brush as the hot exhaust can ignite dry foliage.

The wildfire risk will ease by early next week as the winds drop off and low level moisture begins to invade from the Pacific.