California Governor Schwarzenegger Directs State Agencies to Prepare for Forecast Weekend Winds in Southern California

By newsdesk - Posted on November 1st, 2007

10/31/2007 -- In preparation for the forecasted return of Santa Ana winds beginning this Friday, California Governor Schwarzenegger today directed the California National Guard (CNG), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) and Office of Emergency Services (OES) to proactively prepare for a new round of fires in southern California.

Under the Governor's direction, these agencies have developed an aggressive, tactical plan to pre-position staff and assets in areas facing a high fire risk, based on weather projected for Friday through Monday.

“It’s very important that we remain prepared and alert while there are still fires burning in southern California,” said Governor Schwarzenegger. “This plan helps ensure that resources are strategically placed and standing ready, prepared for whatever the weekend will bring.

“Our firefighters have done a tremendous job combating the blazes in southern California. We are grateful for their continued dedication and hard work in protecting our state.”

CAL FIRE preparation for the Santa Ana winds threat includes deployment of air tankers, tactical aircraft, helicopters, strike and dispatch teams, and other assets to locations including Ramona, Hemet, Paso, Porterville, Fresno, Victorville, Riverside and San Diego. CAL FIRE will also deploy engine strike teams throughout the state, including San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino, Los Angeles County, Santa Barbara County and Kern County. In addition, OES will position strike teams in Orange and Ventura counties.

The CNG will maintain a deployed presence of 1,500 guardsmen and six firefighting helicopters to support ongoing response efforts. The CNG will place additional forces on alert to be recalled if necessary to support future missions.

CAL FIRE continues to adjust staffing and equipment patterns in preparation for the weekend. CAL FIRE oversaw the fire resources used to address 22 fires in Los Angeles, Ventura, Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside and San Diego counties that began October 21. Four fires are still burning.

Source: California Governor

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