California Preps for Possible Wildfires

With changes in the weather forecast this weekend in Northern and Southern California, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger is ordering firefighters and others to prepare for possible wildfires.

The National Weather Service is estimating that Santa Ana winds will move offshore across Southern California by Sunday, becoming strong and gusty below canyons and passes by Monday morning. Winds in the 20 to 40 mph range, with gusts up to 50 mph, will be joined by warmer and much drier conditions that will last through at least Tuesday.

Meantime, a strong cold front will continue to impact Northern California with dry winds ranging from 20 to 25 mph today in the Sacramento area, significantly increasing the danger of wildfires.

"Given the Santa Ana winds forecast, Southern California residents should rest assured that the state is monitoring weather conditions closely and working with firefighters and local officials to ensure that we are all prepared for potential wildfires," Schwarzenegger said Friday in a statement. "During this time, it's also important that residents make sure they are prepared if a fire does strike by taking steps such as having a family disaster plan in place and extra supplies readily available."