This Weather's Gonna Blow You Away

Strong Santa Ana winds again will sweep the Southland today amid low humidity, and a red flag warning indicating a high risk of wildfire will be in force in much of the region.

The red flag warning will be in effect until 8 p.m. today in much of Los Angeles County. National Weather Service forecasters warned it may have to be extended.

Red flag parking restrictions were in effect in areas of Los Angeles County covered by the Los Angeles County Fire Department and in the city of Pasadena, but were not issued in the city of Los Angeles. The restrictions forbid parking on narrow hilly streets that fire trucks otherwise would have difficulty navigating.

NWS forecasters warned that the week would be marked by a prolonged period of hot, very dry conditions, with highs in the 100s possible Tuesday and Wednesday, along with record highs.

The NWS warned area residents to protect themselves and those around them during the heat wave by staying hydrated, wearing lightweight clothing and checking on neighbors, especially the elderly.

Today, "the combination of gusty santa Ana winds, hot temperatures and single-digit humidities will bring extreme fire danger to the region," warned an NWS advisory.

In Los Angeles County, the red flag warning will be in effect in the Santa Monica and San Gabriel mountains, the Angeles National Forest, the San Fernando, Santa Clarita and San Gabriel valleys.

Also in effect -- until 11 a.m. -- will be a wind advisory in the San Gabriel and Santa Monica mountains and the Santa Clarita Valley.

Northeast winds of 20-30 miles per hour gusting to up to 45 mph will blow through mountain areas while winds of 15-25 mph with 40-mph gusts will sweep the Santa Clarita Valley, with the strongest winds expected from sunrise through mid-morning, according to the National Weather Service.

"Gusty winds can make travel difficult and bring down tree branches," warned an NWS advisory. "When driving, use extra caution. Be prepared for sudden gusty cross winds."

Today's forecast called for sunny skies and highs of 85 at LAX; 91 in downtown L.A.; 92 in Long Beach; and 94 in Woodland Hills.

--City News Service