Santa Ana Winds and Their Impact

Santa Ana winds are a significant factor in California's wildfire history due to their strong, dry, and warm nature. These winds blow from east to west, originating from high-pressure areas in the Great Basin and moving towards low-pressure areas in Southern California. As they descend from mountains, they heat up through compression, a process known as the adiabatic process. This heating, combined with low humidity, makes the environment prone to wildfires, especially in the fall when vegetation is dry. The timing and strength of these winds are crucial in determining fire risk.

Which of the following wildfires was fueled by unusually strong Santa Ana winds?

• The Thomas Fire in 2017

• The Cedar Fire in 2003

• The Woolsey Fire in 2018

• The Camp Fire in 2018

What is the typical direction of winds in San Diego during the day?

• From the north to the south

• From the east to the west

• From the south to the north

• From the west to the east

How do Santa Ana winds differ from typical San Diego winds?

• They blow from the east to the west

• They are typically very cool

• They carry a lot of water vapor

• They blow from the ocean to the shore

What causes the air in Santa Ana winds to become hot?

• The air is heated by the sun

• The air is heated by friction with the ground

• The air is compressed as it moves down slopes

• The air absorbs heat from the ocean

What is the adiabatic process?

• A process where air loses moisture

• A process where air heats up as it is compressed

• A process where air cools as it rises

• A process where air absorbs moisture

Why does dry air heat up especially fast?

• Because it is denser

• Because it is moving faster

• Because it is closer to the ground

• Because it has less moisture to absorb heat

What role do mountain ridges and canyons play in Santa Ana winds?

• They change the direction of the winds

• They funnel and speed up the winds

• They slow down the winds

• They cool down the winds

When do Santa Ana winds typically occur?

• In the summer

• In the spring

• In the winter

• In the fall

Why are fuels primed for ignition during Santa Ana wind events?

• Because of high humidity

• Because of low fuel moisture

• Because of frequent rain

• Because of cooler temperatures

What is the main reason for the extreme fire danger during Santa Ana wind events?

• Cool temperatures

• Frequent rain

• High humidity

• Strong, dry, and warm winds