By County News Center, County of San Diego Communications Office
Oct. 14, 2026 | 1:38 PM
Reading Time: 3 minutes
The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning for inland, mountain and foothill areas in San Diego County, along with a heat advisory for coastal areas, starting Thursday.
High winds may cause power outages, blowing dust, tree damage, and dangerous driving conditions for high-profile vehicles. The high winds warning begins Thursday morning and ends Saturday evening, and forecasters say gusty conditions could continue in inland areas into Saturday night.
Hot, dry and windy conditions often overlap with Red Flag warnings, increasing the risk of fast‑moving wildfires.
High Wind Safety Tips
Stay safe as high winds move into San Diego County. The National Weather Service warns that gusty conditions may cause power outages, blowing dust, downed trees and hazardous driving, especially for taller vehicles.
How to Prepare for High Winds
Secure outdoor items such as patio furniture, umbrellas, trash bins and decorations.
Avoid driving high‑profile vehicles during peak wind periods, if possible.
Watch for downed power lines. Stay far back and report them to authorities.
Keep your go‑kit ready with essentials in case of evacuations or extended outages.
Charge phones, flashlights and medical devices ahead of time.
Monitor weather alerts and emergency updates through AlertSanDiego.org.
Stay alert for Red Flag conditions, which increase wildfire risk during hot, dry and windy weather.
Avoid activities that could spark fires, including yard equipment use, dragging trailer chains or improper disposal of cigarettes.
The County urges people to stay aware of the changing conditions, limit driving when possible, and ensure their have their “go-kits” — emergency supplies people to take in the case of evacuations or to help them through power outages — are ready.
The County asks residents to stay alert to fire‑weather advisories, avoid activities that can spark fires, secure trailer chains, dispose of cigarettes safely and keep emergency go‑kits accessible. These prevention steps reduce ignition risk and support community safety.
Stay Safe During the Heat
Stay informed by signing up for emergency alerts at AlertSanDiego.org, where you can register your phone number, receive important notifications and find preparedness information.
Heat-Related Illness Signs
When temperatures rise this high, heat can be dangerous for people and pets. Extreme heat can cause heat exhaustion or heatstroke, especially for older adults, children, people with chronic conditions, pregnant individuals and outdoor workers.
Signs of heat illness include dizziness, nausea, confusion, heavy sweating, headaches or fainting. Seek help immediately if symptoms appear.
Residents should take basic steps to stay safe:
Stay in air‑conditioned spaces during peak heat.
Drink plenty of water and avoid sugary or alcoholic drinks.
Wear lightweight, loose‑fitting clothing.
Avoid using fans alone when temperatures exceed 90 degrees.
Never leave children, older adults or pets in vehicles.
Cool Zones
The County’s Cool Zones, including 33 branch libraries and community centers, offer air‑conditioned spaces where people can escape the heat. The County’s website lists all Cool Zone locations and includes an interactive map.
Tijuana River Valley Effects
Near the Tijuana River Valley, the County monitors hydrogen sulfide odors, which increase during heat events. The County advises residents to limit outdoor activity, close windows and run air‑conditioning on recirculate to reduce exposure.
People can get more information at the County’s Tijuana River Valley Environmental Dashboard.
Remember Your Pets
Pets need protection from extreme heat. The County urges owners to keep animals indoors when possible, provide continuous clean water, limit outdoor activity to early morning or evening and never leave pets in parked cars.
County Encourages Power‑Outage Readiness
Unexpected power outages are always possible in high wind events. The County advises residents to:
Charge phones, flashlights and medical devices.
Cool homes early in the day.
Visit Cool Zones if indoor temperatures rise to unsafe levels.
Prepare communication plans with family and neighbors.
Keep water on hand and monitor official alerts.
For more information about being prepared for emergencies, go to the County’s AlertSanDiego website.
County News Center is a communications specialist with the County of San Diego Communications Office.
