Santa Ana winds
Coverage of Santa Ana winds in the Nexus archive.
- Buckle up, LA. This heat could be with us for a while
Southern California is experiencing a heat wave with triple-digit temperatures expected in inland areas, driven by a high-pressure system and Santa Ana winds. Heat advisories remain in effect until Friday, with elevated fire risks due to dry conditions. The Coachella Valley faces extreme heat warnings, with temperatures reaching 116°F.
- Jury deadlocks in federal trial of man accused of starting deadly Palisades Fire in Los Angeles
A jury in the federal trial of Jonathan Rinderknecht, accused of starting the 2025 Palisades Fire in Los Angeles, deadlocked after initially claiming to reach a verdict. The fire, which killed at least a dozen people and destroyed over 6,800 structures, is charged as a federal crime involving arson and property destruction. Rinderknecht has pleaded not guilty.
- Palisades Fire arson charges against Uber driver go to jury
A Los Angeles jury is determining if former Uber driver Jonathan Rinderknecht intentionally started a fire on New Year’s Day 2025 that later became the city’s most destructive firestorm. Prosecutors allege Rinderknecht, motivated by resentment toward the wealthy, ignited the Lachman Fire, which smoldered and reignited during Santa Ana winds, destroying thousands of homes. Evidence includes geolocation data linking him to the fire’s origin and his prolonged presence at the site.
- Expert testifies Palisades Fire suspect fits profile of revenge-driven arsonist
A behavioral analyst testified that Jonathan Rinderknecht, accused of starting the Palisades Fire in Los Angeles, exhibits traits of a revenge-driven arsonist. Prosecutors allege Rinderknecht lit the fire in 2025 after struggling with personal stressors and fixating on social issues, with evidence including his interactions with ChatGPT and 911 calls.
- Palisades Fire suspect followed fire engines to initial blaze scene
Jonathan Rinderknecht is accused of igniting the Palisades Fire, with security footage showing his vehicle following fire engines to the blaze site. Prosecutors allege embers from the initial fire reignited during Santa Ana winds, causing a firestorm. Rinderknecht faces up to 45 years in prison if convicted.
- Los Angeles braces for gusty Santa Ana winds, followed by rain
Los Angeles is preparing for gusty Santa Ana winds, which will be followed by rain next week. The area experienced a couple of days of dry and warmer weather before the expected precipitation.