Santa Ana winds, fires and Edison shutoffs: be ready to go

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) reported on October 16, 2026 that the first Santa Ana wind event of the season sparked at least three significant wildfires in Southern California.

What happened

PAHO named the Bryson Fire in Malibu (about 100 acres), a fire near Azusa, and one at Camp Pendleton, with evacuation orders and warnings. It cites CAL FIRE and FOX Weather. Southern California Edison reported preventive power shutoffs affecting about 65,000 customers in Los Angeles, Kern and Ventura counties on October 15. Separately, South Coast AQMD issued an air quality alert for Orange County from 4 PM on October 16 to 10 AM the next day.

What it means for your home

Fire, smoke and power shutoffs can all reach a home at once. The air quality alert advised staying indoors with windows closed and running an air conditioner or air purifier. People with lung or heart disease, older adults, pregnant people and children are at greater risk.

What to do this week

• Pack a go-bag with medicines, copies of documents, water, a flashlight and a phone charger.
• Keep N95 masks and a HEPA air purifier ready, and learn how to seal one room.
• Know two ways out of your neighborhood and a meeting place for your family.
• Sign up for wireless emergency alerts and local warnings.
• During a smoke alert, keep windows closed and run an air conditioner or purifier.

For the full plan, read the family emergency plan.