In a startling incident at Disneyland, three individuals were injured, one seriously, as powerful Santa Ana winds wreaked havoc in the Anaheim amusement park’s Main Street U.S.A. area on Monday morning. The incident occurred around 8:30 a.m. when a light post, situated in the Main Street square and utilized for stage lighting during parades and shows, succumbed to the force of the winds.
Anaheim Fire officials confirmed that the seriously injured victim was promptly transported to a local hospital, while the conditions of those with minor injuries, treated at the scene, remain undisclosed. The fallen light post highlights the unforeseen dangers posed by extreme weather conditions, even within the confines of well-maintained amusement parks.
The National Weather Service reported gusts exceeding 40 mph at John Wayne Airport in nearby Santa Ana, reaching a peak of 48 mph on Monday morning. These strong winds not only led to the unfortunate incident at Disneyland but also caused a Cessna 172 to flip over at John Wayne Airport. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in this aviation mishap, as the aircraft was tethered to the ground.
John Wayne Airport officials swiftly addressed the situation, posting that airport operations experienced only brief delays. Moreover, other areas in Southern California were not spared from the impact of the Santa Ana winds. In the eastern mountains, gusts surpassed 80 mph, with Santiago Peak recording a peak gust of 89 mph.
As the region contends with the aftermath of this weather event, it is essential to note the recurrence of Santa Ana winds during the fall and winter seasons, driven by a high-pressure system over the Great Basin and a complementary low-pressure system off the California Coast. This atmospheric condition creates a potent wind gradient, leading to strong and dry offshore winds.
High Wind Warnings and Wind Advisories were issued across Southern California from Monday into Tuesday morning, underscoring the need for residents to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines during such weather phenomena.
@FrshBakedDisney More info about the pole that fell at Disneyland on Main Street during the Santa Anna winds. https://t.co/D76XczfLjf
— Sarah Graham (@SarahGraha23535) November 22, 2023