Gusty winds this upcoming weekend are bringing increased risk of wildfires in Southern California, according to the National Weather Service.
The NWS Los Angeles said winds will kick up Friday afternoon through Sunday, creating hot and dry conditions conducive to fast-moving fires. Winds are expected to peak Friday and Saturday evenings.
Santa Barbara County and interior regions further from the ocean are among the places where fire weather will present the most danger. The Santa Ynez Mountain Range, the Antelope Valley and the 5 Freeway corridor in the lower mountains are the areas facing the highest risks.
Blowing dust is also expected to become a problem in the Antelope Valley, NWS said.
Residents are urged to avoid creating any unnecessary sparks and immediately report any fire activity to authorities.
Offshore, coastal winds are expected to create rough seas and choppy waves with the potential of significant rip currents.
High Surf Advisories will be in effect for most of the weekend with the Central Coast seeing elevated waves of up to 9 feet and Los Angeles and Ventura counties facing elevated surf of up to 6 feet.
The National Weather Service in San Diego also warned residents of Orange and San Diego counties of the increased risk of dangerous rip currents.
Beachgoers were urged to recognize rip currents and always swim with at least one other person, preferably with lifeguards present.
With scorching temperatures expected, the NWS says it’s important to know the signs of heat-related illness including dizziness, heavy thirst, nausea and weakness.
“Protect your skin with sunscreen … drink plenty of water and stay hydrated,” NWS officials said.