High Wind — Est Santa Monica Mountains, California

2025-01-07 · Est Santa Monica Mountains, California

Event narrative

Strong and life threatening north to northeast winds developed across the Eastern Range of the Santa Monica Mountains. Some peak wind gusts include: Saddle Peak (gust 98 MPH), Malibu Hills RAWS (gust 84 MPH), Backbone Trail (gust 82 MPH) and Rambla Pacifico (gust 78 MPH).

Wider weather episode

In early January, one of the strongest Santa Ana wind events in the last several years impacted Ventura and Los Angeles counties. The combination of strong Santa Ana winds, along with significant mountain wave activity, generated wind gusts up to 100 MPH. With the strong winds, numerous power outages along with downed trees were reported. Additionally, the winds lead to a significant wildfire outbreak, including the Palisades and Eaton Fires.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1230329. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.