“High Winds” are categorized as winds that exceed 25 mph. While not as dangerous as a Red Flag Warning, it’s important to prepare for the effects of the winds and other hazardous events they may trigger, such as power outages or brush fires.
How to Prepare for High Winds:
- Secure high-value outdoor items. Anchor outdoor sculptures, fountains, and luxury patio furniture to prevent them from becoming hazardous debris. Store delicate or expensive outdoor equipment, such as poolside decor or high-end grills, in wind-resistant storage.
- Conduct regular inspections of large, mature trees to remove weak branches or unstable trees that could cause damage. Use wind-resistant stakes and ties for valuable or rare plants in landscaped gardens.
- Safeguard glass features. Install impact-resistant or shatterproof glass on large windows, glass walls, and skylights to reduce the risk of breakage. Use roll-down shutters or custom storm barriers to protect expansive glass features during wind events.
- Reinforce unique architectural designs. Have an engineer assess the wind resistance of unique architectural elements, such as balconies, turrets, or expansive roofs. Secure chimneys, rooftop solar panels, and custom fixtures like weathervanes or lightning rods.
- Ensure backup generators are windproofed and secured to prevent damage or malfunction. Test smart home systems to verify they can control gates, shutters, and other automated systems during high winds.
- Secure outdoor structures. Reinforce gazebos, pergolas, and cabanas with additional bracing or wind-resistant materials. Protect outdoor kitchens or entertainment areas with windproof covers or enclosures.
- Review insurance policies to ensure coverage for high-wind-related damage to unique features, like rare landscaping or architectural details. Document outdoor and high-value items with photos and receipts for efficient claims processing.
- Train household staff to secure the property, including locking down outdoor areas and bringing in portable valuables. Coordinate with private security teams for assistance in monitoring the property and reporting wind-related damage.
- Regularly check your local weather forecast to prepare for hazardous weather conditions.
- Talk to your medical provider to plan for how a power outage may affect disability medical devices, refrigerated medications, and any critical emergency appliances.
Helpful contacts:
- Downed powerline: call 9-1-1 and leave the area.
- Report a power outage: call Southern California Edison. SCE can be reached at 1-800-611-1911.
- Downed tree or water in the roadway: call LA Public Works 800-676-HELP (4357).
Southern California Edison may activate a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) within LA County. For detailed updates on Public Safety Power Shutoffs, please visit https://www.sce.com/safety/wildfire/psps.
For additional tips and resources, visit ready.lacounty.gov. Please visit alert.lacounty.gov to register for emergency alerts.