A Fire Weather Watch is in the Santa Clarita weekend forecast as Santa Ana winds with gust up to 65 mph are expected. 

Northeast winds, better known as Santa Ana Winds, are expected to increase Friday night into Saturday, lowering relative humidity levels throughout the Santa Clarita Valley, said David Sweet, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service (NWS).   

“We have a fire Weather Watch in effect from Saturday morning through Sunday morning,” Sweet said. “We have the possibility for critical fire weather conditions because of low relative humidity and strong winds.” 

Friday night into Saturday, NWS officials are predicting 30 to 40 mph sustained winds with gusts up to 65 mph, Sweet said. 

Winds are expected to slightly weaken Sunday with sustained winds of 25 to 35 mph with gusts to 50 mph. 

The northeastern winds are expected to bring dry air from the desert over the southland lowering humidity levels to 5 to 15 percent, according to officials. 

With the low humidity levels and gusty winds, if a fire were to spark, it could spread rapidly and be difficult to contain. 

The Los Angeles County Fire Department is aware of the weather patterns expected throughout the County and are preparing by adding additional staff to the surrounding fire stations. 

Fire officials are reminding residents living in wildfire-prone areas such as the Santa Clarita Valley to take appropriate precautions:

• See something, say something. Report any sign of smoke or fire immediately to your local fire department by dialing 911.  If you dial 911 from your cell phone, be sure to know your location. 
• Have your “Ready! Set! Go!” Wildfire Action Plan in place_.  It is critical for residents to be familiar with the “Ready! Set! Go!” program that provides important pre-planning and evacuation information. 
• Prepare for Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPSGG_. During elevated weather conditions, utility companies may temporarily shut off power in high-risk areas. Plan for this possibility and consult with your local utility company for more information. 

To download the “Ready! Set! Go!” Wildfire Action Plan and view informational how-to videos, click here. 

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