Update (1/8/25): Wildfires are devastating the Los Angeles area. These are the latest updates.

As Ventura County braces for a combination of severe weather events this week, residents are urged to prepare for strong winds, heightened fire risk, and hazardous surf conditions. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued multiple alerts that will remain in effect through Wednesday night (1/8/25), detailing the risks posed by these weather systems.

Here's what you need to know to stay safe.

Wind Advisory: Tuesday Morning Through Wednesday Evening

A Wind Advisory has been issued for Ventura County Beaches, Inland Coast, Lake Casitas, and the Ojai Valley, effective from 8:00 AM Tuesday, January 7th, to 6:00 PM Wednesday, January 8th.

• Expected Winds: North to northeast winds of 25–35 mph, with gusts up to 50 mph.
• Potential Impacts: Strong winds may topple tree limbs, damage unsecured objects, and lead to localized power outages. High-profile vehicles could face difficult driving conditions.

What You Can Do:

• Secure outdoor objects such as patio furniture and decorations.
• Exercise caution while driving, especially on open roads.
• Avoid parking under large trees.

Red Flag Warning: Critical Fire Weather Conditions

A Particularly Dangerous Situation (PDS) Red Flag Warning is in effect for much of Ventura County, from 10:00 AM Tuesday to 6:00 PM Thursday, January 9th. The warning indicates extreme fire weather conditions, driven by powerful offshore winds and extremely low humidity.

• Wind Gusts: Up to 60 mph along the coast and up to 70 mph in the northern Ventura County mountains.
• Humidity Levels: Dropping as low as 10% on Wednesday.

The NWS warns of rapid fire spread and extreme fire behavior, especially in wildland interface areas.

Key Precautions:

• Avoid activities that could ignite a fire, such as outdoor grilling or using power tools near dry vegetation.
• Residents near wildfire-prone areas should be ready to evacuate. Visit ReadyForWildfire.org for tips on preparing your home and family.

High Surf Advisory: Dangerous Beach Conditions

A High Surf Advisory for Ventura County Beaches is in effect from 9:00 PM Monday, January 6th, to 9:00 PM Tuesday, January 7th.

• Wave Heights: 5 to 8 feet on west-facing beaches.
• Risks: Dangerous rip currents and large breaking waves can wash people off beaches and rocks, cause injuries, or capsize small boats near the shore.

Safety Tips for Beachgoers:

• Avoid swimming or surfing in the ocean during the advisory period.
• Stay off rock jetties and other structures close to the water.
• Heed warnings from lifeguards and local authorities.

What to Expect in the Coming Days: A Detailed Forecast

The forecast for Ventura County highlights a mix of sunny skies and strong winds throughout the week, with temperatures ranging from highs in the low 70s to lows in the mid-40s. Here are the key details:

• Tuesday: Sunny with a high of 65°F; northeast winds at 10–15 mph increasing in strength.
• Wednesday: High of 71°F with strong winds reaching gusts of up to 50 mph.
• Thursday: Clear skies, high of 69°F, with moderate wind conditions persisting.

How to Stay Informed

Stay tuned to local news outlets and official updates from the National Weather Service for the latest on these hazardous weather conditions. For fire-related preparedness, visit Wildfire Risk Resources. You can also check our regional CA forecasts to learn about conditions in nearby regions:

• Anaheim, CA: Weather and air quality forecasts
• Bakersfield, CA: Weather and air quality forecasts
• Fresno, CA: Weather and air quality forecasts
• Long Beach, CA: Weather and air quality forecasts
• Los Angeles, CA: Weather and air quality forecasts
• Oakland, CA: Weather and air quality forecasts
• Napa, CA: Weather and air quality forecasts
• Redding, CA: Weather and air quality forecasts
• Sacramento, CA: Weather and air quality forecasts
• San Diego, CA: Weather and air quality forecasts
• San Francisco, CA: Weather and air quality forecasts
• San Jose, CA: Weather and air quality forecasts
• South Lake Tahoe, CA: Weather and air quality forecasts
• Stockton, CA: Weather and air quality forecasts
• Yosemite, CA: Weather and air quality forecasts

As Ventura County prepares for potentially dangerous conditions, residents are encouraged to take these warnings seriously and make all necessary precautions to protect their families and homes.