Southern California hit by strong winds, red flag warning

Clocks went back and winds picked up early Sunday, bringing gusty conditions across much of Southern California on the first day of daylight saving time.

According to the National Weather Service, strong winds from the north blew across the San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys and the Santa Monica Mountains, increasing the risk of wildfires. Some gusts in Porter Ranch and the eastern Santa Monica Mountains reached speeds of 60 mph, with Santa Monica and Los Angeles International Airport recording winds in the 20 to 30 mph range.

“If you head onto the I-5 corridor, you're going to encounter some really strong winds,” said Mike Wofford, a meteorologist with the weather service in Oxnard.

Winds are expected to shift to a northeasterly this evening and continue into Monday. Warnings are currently in place in Los Angeles, Ventura, San Bernardino and Riverside counties.

“High winds and low humidity,” Wofford said. “Anytime we get that combination, there’s a big fire risk.”

Temperatures will be mild across the LA area, reaching highs in the low 70s on Sunday. Warm temperatures are expected to remain consistent throughout the week.