Preparing for Strong Winds and Potential Fires
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an alert regarding the severe windstorm expected to impact Ventura and Los Angeles counties starting the morning of Tuesday, January 7, through Wednesday, January 8. This windstorm is expected to bring damaging winds of 50-80mph, reaching up to 80-100mph in certain areas. In the City of Los Angeles, Red Flag Alert parking restrictions will be in effect beginning Tuesday, January 7 at 8:00am until further notice. To view affected parking areas, search for your neighborhood in this LAFD interactive map. Updates regarding the Red Flag Parking status can be found at https://ers.lafd.org/redflag/.
The San Fernando Valley is especially impacted by high winds and wildfire risk, particularly in foothill and hillside communities where minimal rainfall this season has contributed to dry brush conditions. Remember to call 9-1-1 for life-threatening emergencies and report downed trees and other non-life-threatening hazards to 311 (213-473-3231) or at https://myla311.lacity.org/. Residents should remain on heightened alert- to stay informed:
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Follow updates from the National Weather Service - Los Angeles
Follow updates from the Los Angeles Fire Department
Simple steps you can take to prepare for the windstorm:
Avoid using outdoor power tools, grilling, outdoor campfires, and barbecues.
Remove any outdoor holiday decorations that can be blown away.
Secure any outdoor furniture and any objects.
Make sure gutters and shutters are secure.
Prepare backup batteries for flashlights and other devices. Don’t light candles during power outages caused by wind.
Watch for flying debris, as street signs and tree limbs may become loose during strong winds.
Keep a flashlight and extra batteries nearby. Never use candles in a power outage or other emergency.
Keep your cellphone fully charged as your cordless “landline” may also lose connectivity during a storm. It will also enable you to access information online.
Keep a fully charged portable cell phone charger handy in case you need to charge any of your electronics while power is out.
LADWP Safety Tips
As a reminder, LADWP urges customers to use caution around any downed or dangling wires or poles. If you see a downed wire, always assume it is live. Do not assume a downed wire is a communication line, no matter its size. Never approach or touch any wire that is down or dangling and immediately report it by calling 9-1-1. If power does go out:
Report outages online and track crew status at www.ladwp.com/outages or by calling 1-800-DIAL-DWP (1-800-342-5397).
Switch off all lights, except for one, so you will know when your power has been restored.
Keep your refrigerator closed to keep food cold for longer.
Check on vulnerable friends and neighbors to make sure they are safe.
Customers can sign up to receive outage alerts via text or email, in English or Spanish, report an outage, as well as check the status of any power outage in LADWP‘s service area by going online at www.ladwp.com/outages or by calling 1-800-DIAL-DWP (1-800-342-5397).
Prepare for Wildfire Evacuations:
Sign up for NotifyLA alerts and encourage your neighbors to do so as well.
Leave your phone on to receive Notify LA alerts even if you are sleeping and don’t use “do not disturb” mode during high-risk weather.
Monitor LAFD Alerts to see updates on Red Flag Parking Restrictions and active fire incidents in the City of Los Angeles.
Put your go-bag by the front door. Ensure that you have all essential items at the ready.
Plan multiple evacuation routes in your neighborhood in the event of a fire.
Establish two meeting places outside your home: one you can walk to and another you can drive to. Inform all household members of these two meeting places.
Park off-street. Back your car into your driveway or garage, leaving streets clear for emergency vehicles.
Stay prepared, stay safe, and be sure to check in on your neighbors and loved ones during these gusty winds. Taking a few simple precautions now can make all the difference in keeping everyone safe.
