January 20, 2025
Red Flag Warning
The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for strong northeast winds and low relative humidity in the Los Angeles area from 8 AM on Monday, January 20, through Tuesday, January 21, at 10 PM. For more information related to this weather warning, visit weather.gov/translate.
Refrain from using the following:
- Woodburning fire pits/stoves
- Campfires or any open flames
- Charcoal or wood grills
Windblown Dust and Ash Advisory
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is issuing a Windblown Dust and Ash Advisory following strong Santa Ana winds expected to affect the region through Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at 10 PM. According to the South Coast Air Quality Management District (South Coast AQMD), gusty winds may disperse ash from recent fire burn scars and generate dust, potentially impacting air quality throughout Los Angeles County.
Multiple communities throughout Los Angeles County are impacted, especially those downwind of recent burn scars. For a detailed air quality map specific to Los Angeles County, visit South Coast AQMD’s website or download the mobile app listed below.
Windblown dust and ash contain small particles that may cause irritation or exacerbate pre-existing health conditions, particularly for children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with heart or lung conditions. Public Health advises everyone to take the following precautions to reduce exposure:
- Stay Inside: Keep windows and doors closed. Use an air purifier or run your air conditioning system on recirculate to keep indoor air clean.
- Wear a Mask: If you must go outside, wear an N95 or P100 mask to protect your lungs.
- Secure Loose Items: Tie down or bring in items like chairs, trash cans, and other outdoor belongings to prevent them from becoming hazards.
- Protect Your Eyes: If outside, wear goggles to shield your eyes from airborne ash and debris.
- Stay Informed: Monitor updates from local news sources for the latest on weather conditions, air quality, and potential evacuation notices.
- Be Prepared: Have a plan in place, including essential supplies and emergency contacts, in case conditions worsen.
Strong winds are expected to continue dispersing ash and dust from burn scars in the Palisades, Eaton, and other impacted areas. Air quality may reach levels that are Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups or worse in some regions. While ash particles are typically visible, they may not always affect Air Quality Index (AQI) readings. Nonetheless, these particles can carry toxic materials and pose significant health risks. Conditions are expected to improve by late Wednesday as wind speeds decrease. To stay updated with real-time/forecasted Air Quality in your area, download the South Coast AQMD Mobile App: http://www.aqmd.gov/mobileapp or visit https://www.aqmd.gov/home/air-quality/air-quality-forecasts.
The Culver City Fire and Police Departments collaborate closely to prepare for weather events that may impact Culver City public safety.
Community members are recommended to review the following steps:
- Secure patio furniture to avoid damage
- Assume all downed power lines are electrified and dangerous.
- Stay clear of any downed lines and immediately report down power lines by calling 9-1-1
- Report power outages to SCE.com/outage
- Report fallen palm fronds and tree branches to Culver City Public Works by calling (310) 253-6420
- Have a backup plan for any medical equipment that requires power
- Ensure you have a flashlight and batteries ready Charge your phones and portable chargers
- Create or inspect your household emergency kit
- Sign up for local emergency alerts and follow city social media platforms for verified information. Visit culvercityfd.org/Emergency-Preparedness/Stay-Informed to subscribe to emergency alerts and view additional ways to receive verified information from the City of Culver City.
January 15, 2025
This will be the final update on the January 2025 fire activity, though resources will remain available on this page below.
There is no Fire Watch or Red Flag Warning for the Culver City area. Winds have remained relatively mild locally. There are still no significant rain chances through the end of next week. LA County Public Health issued a temporary order banning the use of power air blowing devices including leaf blowers.
Culver City emergency responders will continue to closely monitor potential impacts from the upcoming weather conditions. You are urged to remain vigilant, report safety concerns immediately, and stay prepared. It is important to sign up for alerts with the City through email, Everbridge, and Nixle. You can find those resources below. Please also be aware of potential scams as donation efforts continue.
Nearly 40,000 acres have burned, and it's estimated that more than 12,000 structures have been damaged or destroyed. At least 24 people have lost their lives and searches are continuing.
Culver City Unified School District reopened schools beginning January 13th. Schools are equipped with MERV 12 air filters to keep classrooms clean and safe. Masks are available for all students or staff who wish to use one. The district will continue to monitor ongoing changes in fire conditions.
At our parks, all permitted outdoor activities have resumed. We encourage residents to check if the air quality is right for them to enjoy our parks. As of Wednesday, January 15th, the air quality was deemed "good" throughout Culver City. You can stay updated with the latest air quality of the Culver City and Los Angeles area by visiting AirNow's website.
The Plunge has reopened, and the Senior Center remains open with regular hours.
Culver City Police have free Disaster Ready Guides in English and Spanish available to help community members prepare their emergency plan. Guides can be picked up in the Police Department Lobby at 4040 Duquesne Avenue from 7 AM to 5 PM.
The Mobile Crisis Team (MCT) began wildfire and air quality related outreach when the fires first began. The team checked in and distributed PPE (personal protective equipment, i.e. masks), clothing, and ready meals/food to our unhoused population. MCT also teamed up with CCFD to distribute food and identify specific needs in the community. MCT also distributed PPE to our clients who are part of the master lease program at two local hotels and at Project Homekey.
Previous Updates
Helpful Resources
For Life-Threatening Emergencies or Downed Power Lines
Call 9-1-1
Non-Emergency Police Response
Call (310) 837-1221
Receive Culver City Emergency Alerts
Enroll to receive emergency alerts
Or text “CCPD” to 888-777
Fallen Palm Fronds and Tree Branches
Call the Culver City Public Works Department at (310) 253-6420
Air Quality Information
Current Air Quality Data
Preparedness Information
Emergency Preparedness Resources
Community Connect
Community Connect allows Culver City residents to share valuable life-safety information with Culver City Fire Department first responders. Residents can provide details about their home, family, children, pets, medical or functional needs, and more, ensuring that when the Fire Department is dispatched to an emergency, first responders have as much information as possible before arriving on scene or have critical details about your residence in case of a disaster. Businesses can also create a profile.
Learn more on the Community Connect website.Southern California Edison & Power Outages
Call (800) 611-1911
Southern California Edison Outage Center
If someone in your household uses life-sustaining medical equipment or relies on electricity to manage a medical condition and is not currently enrolled in SCE’s Medical Baseline Allowance program, it is important that you let SCE know so that you are notified of any Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). You can Self-Certify at SCE's website. This information is also shared with first responders to be used in the event of an emergency.
Shelters Open
For up-to-date shelter locations, visit the Red Cross website. Pet-friendly shelters can also be located on the Red Cross website.
Information about Price Gouging
Price gouging during a state of emergency is illegal under Penal Code Section 396.Californians who believe they have been the victim of price gouging should report it to local authorities or to the Attorney General on the Office of Attorney General website. To view a list of all price gouging restrictions currently in effect as a result of proclamations by Gov. Gavin Newsom, please visit the California's Office of Emergency Services website.
Volunteering
If you are interested in volunteering, please visit the L.A. Works website. People can sign up to volunteer by visiting the Red Cross volunteer webpage.
Online Donations
Physical Donations
YMCA Locations
- 4500 Sepulveda Blvd, Culver City (310) 390-3604
- 8015 S. Sepulveda Blvd, Westchester (310) 670-4316
- 433 S. Vermont Ave., Los Angeles (213) 401-1946
Accepting unopened food, clothing, blankets, emergency supplies, and dog/cat food.
Please contact 211 or visit 211LA before dropping off clothing or household items to ensure donations are accepted where needed. Financial contributions remain the fastest and most effective way to help those in need, allowing us to respond immediately with critical resources.
Disclaimer: The inclusion of non-profit organizations in this list is for informational purposes only. The City of Culver City does not endorse, recommend, or guarantee the services, activities, or legitimacy of any of these organizations. This list is not intended to be a comprehensive directory and does not imply any preferential treatment or approval. Individuals are encouraged to conduct their own research and exercise due diligence when selecting an organization for donations.
Culver City Hotels and Accommodations
Culver City offers a variety of accommodations within minutes from major destinations, shopping and freeways.
Boutique Hotels
Signature Brand Properties
Motels
Be Mindful of Scams
Staying vigilant during crises like wildfires is crucial, as scam artists often exploit such situations. Here are some tips to protect yourself:
- Verify Sources: Only trust information from official sources, such as government agencies or recognized organizations.
- Be Cautious with Donations: If you're considering donating, research the organization thoroughly. Look for established charities and avoid giving personal information over the phone or through unsolicited emails and text messages.
- Watch for Phishing Attempts: Be wary of emails or texts asking for personal information or urging you to click on links. Check the sender's email address and look for signs of phishing.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Information: Never provide sensitive information like Social Security numbers or bank details.
- Use Official Channels: If you receive a suspicious message, contact the organization directly using a verified phone number or website to confirm its legitimacy.
- Report Scams: If you encounter a scam, report it to local authorities or consumer protection agencies.
Red Flag Warnings & Emergency Preparedness Information
A Red Flag Warning is issued to alert the community of critical weather conditions and potential fire hazards, typically within the next 12 to 24 hours. These conditions are characterized by a combination of dry brush and strong winds that create a heightened risk for fires.
So far, the City of Culver City has not experienced significant damage from this weather event. However, it is important to understand how we will communicate with you during an emergency, what the different notifications mean, and how you can best prepare for potential risks.
What Happens If a Fire Starts Nearby?
Evacuation Warning: If a fire were to ignite in a neighboring city, the strong winds could cause the fire to spread into Culver City. In such cases if an area of the city were to be at risk, we would issue an Evacuation Warning. An Evacuation Warning designates an area that could be at risk, and we recommend that residents who need extra time to evacuate—such as those with pets—consider evacuating during this stage to ensure a safe departure.
Evacuation Order: If a fire were to threaten a specific area of Culver City, we would issue an Evacuation Order. This means that the area is immediately unsafe, and all residents within the affected zone are required to evacuate and seek shelter. Access to the area will be restricted, and individuals will not be allowed to return to their homes, even to retrieve belongings.
How Will Residents Be Notified?
In the event of an emergency, we will use multiple communication methods to alert the public:
- Everbridge Emergency Notification System
- Door-to-door notifications
- Sirens and public address (PA) systems
If you haven’t already signed up for emergency notifications, please do so as soon as possible to ensure you receive timely updates. Please visit the City of Culver City Website and follow City of Culver City, Culver City Fire Department, and Culver City Police Department official social media channels for continued updates.
Be Prepared: Create a “Go Bag”
Regardless of whether you live in a fire-prone area, it’s essential to be prepared for any emergency. Having a “Go Bag” ready ensures that you can evacuate quickly if needed. A “Go Bag” should contain essential items such as important documents, medications, clothes, and other necessities. Since Red Flag Warnings are becoming more frequent, it’s a good idea to keep your Go Bag near the front door for easy access if evacuation becomes necessary.
For more information on wildfire preparedness and to learn about CAL FIRE’s Ready, Set, Go! program, please visit the Culver City Fire Department website.