How Santa Ana Winds Fueled Devastation in the Eaton and Palisades Fires

The Eaton and Palisades fires are harsh reminders of wildfires' destructive power and how they can consume homes and entire communities, particularly when paired with high wind speeds such as the notorious Santa Ana winds. 

The Santa Ana winds—hot, dry winds blowing in from desert regions toward the coast paired with a lack of rainfall in the area—create the perfect storm for wildfire devastation. The hurricane-force winds experienced in early January pushed the Eaton and Palisades fires beyond what even well-prepared homes could endure. Still, preparation remains crucial.  

A home prepared by a defensible space can buy critical time for firefighters, increase a home’s chances of survival, and help families evacuate safely. In less severe conditions, it can mean the difference between saving a home and losing it. Keeping your property clear and creating defensible space makes it easier for them to protect your home. You can learn more about creating defensible space in the different zones around your home here.  

In California, wildfires happen every year, so we can’t afford to wait. Preparing now helps keep your family, neighbors, and home safe. Once a wildfire starts, it’s often too late to make changes that matter.  

Download our Defensible Space brochure to keep these helpful tips close by. Take steps now to protect what’s important.