Southern California on alert: High winds trigger wildfire and dangerous seas

Residents need to remain alert as severe weather hits Southern California. The strongest gusts are forecast to blow Friday night and Saturday along the Interstate 5 corridor. It is expected that these strong winds could create dangerous seas and increase wildfire risk in some areas.

Forecasters said there’s a 70% chance gusts reach 40 to 55 mph in some areas, and a 20% chance they’ll hit 60 mph. According to the weather service, the Central Coast could observe gusts of 30 to 40 mph on Saturday and Sunday.

In this connection, Mike Wofford, meteorologist with the National Service in Oxnard said the end of this rainy season is having a significant effect on soil and vegetation. This means some areas face an increased risk of wildfire.

It is worth mentioning that winds are forecast to strengthen Friday afternoon, and continue through Sunday. Weather service authorities have warned that the dangerous sea conditions could damage both small and large vessels.

On the other hand, the weather service has issued alerts warning that waves could reach 5 to 15 feet from Friday to Monday, with the potential to sweep people out to sea.

Given the gravity of the situation, riptide and surf current are also expected at Los Angeles beaches and along the Malibu coast. People should be aware that minor beach erosion and coastal flooding are also possible during evening flood tides on Saturday and Sunday.