Strong Winds, Dry Conditions Create Elevated Fire Risk In County

SAN DIEGO COUNTY, CA — Strong Santa Ana winds were sweeping through San Diego County Monday amid dry conditions, raising the risk of wildfires in parts of the region, according to the National Weather Service.

The NWS issued a wind advisory that will be in effect until 5 p.m. Monday in the coastal areas and the western valleys.

"Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects," forecasters said. "Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result."

Forecasters advised residents to secure outdoor objects. Motorists should use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle.

Winds out of the northeast are expected to be between 25 to 35 mph, with sustained wind gusts potentially reaching 55 mph, according to the NWS. Humidity will drop to around 5 to 10 percent Monday afternoon with poor overnight recovery. That combination will create an elevated risk of wildfires in the mountains and the western valleys through Tuesday, weather officials said.

To reduce the risk of wildfire in some parts of North County, San Diego Gas & Electric notified about 21,480 residents over the weekend that it may have to turn off power Monday and Tuesday.

The utility shut off power around 10 a.m. Monday for 2,908 customers in Fallbrook. Thousands of other customers in the areas of Camp Pendleton, East San Juan Capistrano, Oceanside and Pala Reservation could have their power shut off at some point Monday and Tuesday, according to SDG&E.

Power shutoffs are approved by state regulators as a safety tool to mitigate fire risk during dangerous weather conditions.

SDG&E set up a community resource center for impacted customers. The center is open from 8 a.m. 10 p.m. daily at the Fallbrook Branch Library at 124 S. Mission Road.

View a map of areas at risk of power shutoffs.

By City News Service; Patch editor Kristina Houck contributed to this report.