Saturday, September 13, 2025

Santa Ana Winds in California are a major cause of the worst wildfires in California from September to May of every year

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Santa Ana winds are strong, hot, and dry winds that blow from the inland deserts to the coast of Southern California, typically from September through May. They occur when a high-pressure system forms over the Great Basin, forcing air to flow westward toward a low-pressure area off the coast. As the air descends the mountains and travels through canyons, it compresses, warms, and becomes drier, a process that significantly increases wildfire risk and can cause property damage.  
How They Form
  • High-Pressure System:
    A strong high-pressure system builds over the Great Basin (which includes Nevada). 

Impacts
  • Increased Fire Risk:
    The extremely dry and warm conditions created by Santa Ana winds are perfect for rapidly spreading wildfires. 

When They Occur 
  • Santa Ana winds are most common during the cooler months, typically from September through May.
Forecasting and Warnings
  • Forecasters monitor the proximity of high and low-pressure systems to predict wind strength and potential wildfire spread. 

  • Mountain and Valley Winds
    National Weather Service
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  • Low-Pressure Area:
    A corresponding low-pressure area develops off the coast of California. 
  • Air Movement:
    The dense, cold, and dry air from the high-pressure region flows toward the low-pressure system. 
  • Topography:
    As the air descends the mountains and travels through canyons, it is compressed and warms up, similar to air passing through a hose. This process dries the air out, lowering humidity levels. 
  • Property Damage:
    The strong winds, which can be hurricane-force, can cause major damage to property and infrastructure. 
  • Other Effects:
    The intense, dry winds are also associated with irritation and a sense of unease, leading to nicknames like "devil winds". 
  • Red Flag Warnings are issued to alert the public to high-fire-danger conditions during Santa Ana wind events, according to the US Forest Service. 
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