By LE Construction · Published October 6, 2026
Santa Ana winds are dry, strong offshore winds that blow from the inland deserts toward the coast, most often in fall and early winter. They turn small fires into fast ones, carry embers long distances and test every loose part of a house. The Thomas Fire, the Woolsey Fire and the Mountain Fire all burned during Santa Ana events.
Before the season, a careful walk around the outside of your house catches most of the problems wind and embers exploit.
Around the base of the house
- Clear the first five feet. Remove dry leaves, wood mulch, firewood and stored items next to the walls.
- Check where fences meet the house. Wood fences touching the house can carry fire to it.
- Look under decks. Clear debris and stored items.
Vents and openings
- Inspect attic, eave and foundation vents. Torn or coarse screens let embers in. Ember-resistant vents with fine mesh are the long-term fix.
- Close gaps around pipes, wires and garage doors.
Roof and gutters
- Clean gutters and the roof valleys where leaves collect.
- Check roof edges for gaps where embers can lodge.
- Look for loose or missing roofing that wind can lift.
Patio covers, pergolas and shade
- Check fasteners and connections. Covers need to resist uplift as well as weight.
- Look at post bases for rot or rust.
- Remove or secure shade fabric before a wind event.
Windows and doors
- Check that windows close fully and that screens are intact.
- Note single-pane windows. Upgrading to tempered dual-pane windows is a longer-term hardening step.
Trees and plants
- Remove dead branches over the roof and near the house.
- Keep plants near the house low, green and well spaced.
Loose items
- Secure or store patio furniture, cushions, umbrellas, trash cans and anything wind can throw.
After the walk-around
Fix what you can now, and plan the bigger items: vents, eaves, siding and windows. Our wildfire home hardening service starts with a walk-around and a prioritized list. See also our hardening guide and the fall maintenance checklist.
Frequently asked questions
When is Santa Ana wind season in Ventura County?
Santa Ana winds are most common in fall and early winter, though they can occur at other times. The Thomas Fire in December 2017, the Woolsey Fire in November 2018 and the Mountain Fire in November 2024 all burned during that season.
Can strong winds damage a patio cover?
Yes. Wind can lift covers, especially those with fabric or dense vines, if the footings and connections were not designed for uplift. Check for loose fasteners, rot at post bases and gaps at the house connection.
Should I move my outdoor furniture before a wind event?
Secure or store light furniture, cushions and umbrellas. In high winds they can become projectiles, and cushions are combustible if embers arrive. Store them away from the house walls.
How often should I clean gutters in fire country?
Before fire season and after leaves drop, at minimum. Dry leaves in gutters catch embers. Gutter covers reduce buildup but still need occasional checks.