Santa Ana winds are pushing dangerous gusts and extreme heat into the Carlsbad area through Saturday, Oct. 17, raising wildfire and power-outage risk across San Diego County.

The National Weather Service issued a high wind warning for inland, mountain and foothill areas and a heat advisory for coastal communities, according to the San Diego County News Center. The warning took effect Thursday morning, Oct. 15, and runs through Saturday evening. Gusty conditions could stretch into Saturday night in inland areas.

The worst winds are expected Friday, Oct. 16, according to KPBS. Mountain communities face northeast-to-east winds of 25 to 35 mph with gusts of 50 to 65 mph.

Eastern valley areas can expect 20 to 30 mph winds with gusts of 45 to 55 mph. Western valleys, closer to Carlsbad, could see gusts of 35 to 45 mph, the weather service said.

"All of this will add up to a high risk for large fires and rapid fire growth over most of the area," National Weather Service forecasters said Wednesday, Oct. 14, according to Insurance Journal.

Coastal areas also face a heat advisory, with highs in the mid-90s expected through Saturday, according to KPBS. The combination of hot, dry and windy conditions raises the chance of Red Flag warnings, which signal elevated wildfire risk, according to the county's emergency guidance.

What residents should do

San Diego County is urging residents to prepare for both wind and heat hazards. The county's guidance includes:

  • Secure outdoor furniture, umbrellas, trash bins and decorations.
  • Avoid driving high-profile vehicles during peak wind periods.
  • Watch for downed power lines, stay far back and report them to authorities.
  • Charge phones, flashlights and medical devices ahead of time.
  • Keep an emergency go-kit ready for evacuations or extended outages.
  • Avoid activities that could spark fires, including yard equipment use and improper disposal of cigarettes.

The county also advises staying in air-conditioned spaces during peak heat, drinking plenty of water and never leaving children, older adults or pets in vehicles.

Cool Zones and power outage prep

Outages are possible.

San Diego County's Cool Zones, including 33 branch libraries and community centers, offer free air-conditioned spaces for anyone who needs relief from the heat, the county said. The Carlsbad City Library at 1775 Dove Lane has served as a designated Cool Zone during previous heat events.

The county warned that power outages are common during high wind events and advised residents to cool their homes early in the day, prepare communication plans with family and neighbors, and keep water on hand.

Signs of heat illness include dizziness, nausea, confusion, heavy sweating, headaches and fainting. The county said to seek help immediately if symptoms appear, especially for older adults, children, people with chronic conditions and outdoor workers.

Residents can sign up for emergency notifications at AlertSanDiego.org.