Significant Winds and Elevated Fire Conditions Expected in Pasadena: Safety Tips and Preparedness Information

PASADENA, Calif.- The City of Pasadena is urging residents to prepare for significant winds and elevated fire conditions expected to impact the area from Tuesday, January 7, through Wednesday, January 8. Strong winds, ranging from 30 to 50 mph with widespread gusts between 60 to 80, isolated gusts between 80 to 100 mph are possible. Combined with dry conditions, winds may create hazardous situations, including an increased risk of wildfires, downed trees, and power outages. Pasadena emergency officials are urging the community to take steps now to ensure their safety.

Safety Tips for High Winds:

• Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in or secure any outdoor furniture, decorations, and other objects that could become airborne.
• Ensure Windows and Doors are Secure: Double-check that windows, doors, and garage doors are properly closed and fastened to prevent wind from causing damage or allowing debris to enter.
• Stay Indoors When Possible: Avoid being outside during periods of peak wind gusts, especially near trees, power lines, and other structures that could be vulnerable to the wind. Never touch or approach downed power lines. To report a power outage, call Pasadena Water and Power at (626) 744-4673. Call 911 to report downed lines. For information on outages, visit com/OutageMap.
• Prepare for Potential Power Outages: High winds can cause power outages. Be sure to have flashlights, batteries, and other emergency supplies on hand. Charge cell phones and other essential electronics in advance. Consider having a battery-powered radio to stay informed in case of power loss.
• Avoid Driving During High Winds: If possible, avoid driving during periods of intense wind gusts. High winds can make driving hazardous, especially for high-profile vehicles, and may cause debris or fallen trees to block roads.
• Prepare Emergency Kits: Ensure you have an emergency kit with enough food, water, medications, and other essentials to last for 72 hours in case of a prolonged outage or disruption. Visit gov/Kit for more information.
• Report Suspicious Activity: If you notice suspicious behavior or signs of arson, report it immediately to local authorities. The Pasadena Fire Department encourages residents to be vigilant in preventing fire hazards during this period of heightened risk.
• Be Prepared for Red Flag Conditions : Please stay alert to City of Pasadena social media posts and posted signs in your neighborhoods.
• Monitor Weather Alerts: Stay informed through local news, weather services, and the City of Pasadena's official communication channels for any updates, warnings, or advisories related to the storm.

The Pasadena Fire, Police, Water and Power, and Public Works Departments are on heightened alert and ready to respond to any emergencies related to the high winds. Crews are conducting pre-storm assessments of trees, utility lines, and roadways to minimize potential hazards.

A residential wood-burning ban will be in effect from today for all those in the South Coast Air Basin. The order does not apply to mountain communities above 3,000 feet or to homes that rely on wood as a sole source of heat, low-income households and those without natural gas service also are exempt from the requirement.

If you haven't already, please register for the Pasadena Local Emergency Alert System (PLEAS) to receive voice, email and/or text emergency notifications. PLEAS messages are only sent in the event of imminent danger where action, such as evacuation, is required.

Once you've registered with PLEAS, we also recommend registering with the County's Alert LA County mass notification system.

Nixle is the primary notification system for the Pasadena Police Department. Register at Nixle.com to receive alerts by text message and/or email. You can also text your ZIP code to 888777 to opt in.