Red Flag Warning and Windblown Dust and Ash Advisory
Published on January 19, 2025
Red Flag Warning
The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for strong northeast winds and low relative humidity in the Los Angeles area from 8 AM on Monday, January 20, through Tuesday, January 21, at 10 PM. For more information related to this weather warning, visit weather.gov/translate.
Refrain from using the following:
- Woodburning fire pits/stoves
- Campfires or any open flames
Windblown Dust and Ash Advisory
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is issuing a Windblown Dust and Ash Advisory following strong Santa Ana winds expected to affect the region through Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at 10 PM. According to the South Coast Air Quality Management District (South Coast AQMD), gusty winds may disperse ash from recent fire burn scars and generate dust, potentially impacting air quality throughout Los Angeles County.
Multiple communities throughout Los Angeles County are impacted, especially those downwind of recent burn scars. For a detailed air quality map specific to Los Angeles County, visit South Coast AQMD’s website or download the mobile app listed below.
Windblown dust and ash contain small particles that may cause irritation or exacerbate pre-existing health conditions, particularly for children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with heart or lung conditions. Public Health advises everyone to take the following precautions to reduce exposure:
- Stay Inside: Keep windows and doors closed. Use an air purifier or run your air conditioning system on recirculate to keep indoor air clean.
- Wear a Mask: If you must go outside, wear an N95 or P100 mask to protect your lungs.
- Secure Loose Items: Tie down or bring in items like chairs, trash cans, and other outdoor belongings to prevent them from becoming hazards.
- Protect Your Eyes: If outside, wear goggles to shield your eyes from airborne ash and debris.
- Stay Informed: Monitor updates from local news sources for the latest on weather conditions, air quality, and potential evacuation notices.
- Be Prepared: Have a plan in place, including essential supplies and emergency contacts, in case conditions worsen.
Strong winds are expected to continue dispersing ash and dust from burn scars in the Palisades, Eaton, and other impacted areas. Air quality may reach levels that are Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups or worse in some regions. While ash particles are typically visible, they may not always affect Air Quality Index (AQI) readings. Nonetheless, these particles can carry toxic materials and pose significant health risks. Conditions are expected to improve by late Wednesday as wind speeds decrease. To stay updated with real-time/forecasted Air Quality in your area, download the South Coast AQMD Mobile App: http://www.aqmd.gov/mobileapp or visit https://www.aqmd.gov/home/air-quality/air-quality-forecasts.
The Culver City Fire and Police Departments collaborate closely to prepare for weather events that may impact Culver City public safety.
Community members are recommended to review the following steps:
- Secure patio furniture to avoid damage
- Assume all downed power lines are electrified and dangerous. Stay clear of any downed lines and immediately report down power lines by calling 9-1-1
- Report power outages to SCE.com/outage
- Report fallen palm fronds and tree branches to Culver City Public Works by calling (310) 253-6420
- Have a backup plan for any medical equipment that requires power
- Ensure you have a flashlight and batteries ready
- Charge your phones and portable chargers
- Create or inspect your household emergency kit
- Sign up for local emergency alerts and follow city social media platforms for verified information. Visit culvercityfd.org/Emergency-Preparedness/Stay-Informed to subscribe to emergency alerts and view additional ways to receive verified information from the City of Culver City.