Strong Santa Ana wind event wreaks havoc on Anza Valley

An extraordinary Santa Ana wind event pummeled the Anza Valley and most of Southern California Thursday, Jan. 26. Very few properties escaped the harsh gusts that attained speeds of up to almost 50 mph in some local areas. Sill Hill in San Diego County reported a 93 mph gust that day. But closer to home, Palomar Mountain Lookout recorded speeds of 83 mph, Aguanga 39 mph, Anza 45 mph, Anza Southeast 41 mph and Red Mountain at 39 mph.

As the windy day progressed, the US National Weather Service in San Diego posted, “The winds aren’t over yet, everyone. Strong Santa Ana winds will persist through this evening before diminishing overnight. We have seen many reports of downed trees, powerlines and travel disruptions, so use great caution today.”

Many residents of the high country experienced damage from the restless atmosphere. Reports of trees toppling over, large branches crashing down, awnings ripped from their anchors, play equipment smashed into the ground and items blown away never to be seen again, were reported in social media. The severe winds blew ash from the Fairview Fire scar, leading many to believe another fire had started.

According to posts on local