Wind Gusts Could Reach 65 MPH, NSW Says

The National Weather Service is warning that strong winds, which could include gusts of up to 65 mph, will sweep across Los Angeles County, including the Santa Monica mountain range, Thursday night.

The Weather Service warns the winds could be capable of producing downed power lines and tree limbs and has issued a red flag warning to advise the winds, coupled with low humidity, bring fire danger. If a fire ignites, it could spread rapidly. The warnings are in effect through Friday evening.

Because of these warnings, the county Chief Executive Office, Office of Emergency Management and the Emergency Operations Bureau of the Sheriff's Department activated the county's emergency operations center was activated at noon Thursday. The county departments will be monitoring conditions though the warning period.

Los Angeles County residents and business owners, including persons with disabilities and others with access and functional needs may call 211 LA County for emergency preparedness information and other referral services. The toll-free 2-1-1 number is available 24 hours a day and seven days a week. 211 LA County services can also be accessed by visiting http://211la.org.