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Scorching Heat and Gusty Winds Fuel Wildfire Threat in Southern California
29 Oct
Summary
- Temperatures 10-20°F above average in Southern California
- Over 18 million people under heat advisories
- Elevated to critical fire weather conditions expected
As of October 29th, 2025, Southern California is experiencing an unusual heatwave that is exacerbating fire weather conditions in the region. Temperatures have climbed between 10 and 20 degrees above average, with highs expected to reach the lower to middle 90s across a large area. This has prompted heat advisories for over 18 million people in areas away from the coast.
The combination of the unusual heat, dry conditions, and gusty winds has created critical fire weather across the region. Meteorologists have warned that the first Santa Ana wind event of the season is underway, with winds of 15-25 mph and relative humidity levels in the 15-20% range. This has led to a red flag warning being issued for the Western San Gabriel Mountains, Santa Susana Mountains, and southeastern Ventura County valleys, indicating that conditions are favorable for extreme fire behavior, rapid fire growth, and long-range spotting.
Residents in the affected areas have been advised to be prepared to evacuate in the event of an emergency wildfire situation. The National Weather Service has cautioned that if a fire ignition occurs, the conditions could threaten life and property.
