VOTE HERE

Red Flag Warning Triggers Power Shutoffs for Thousands Across Southern California

Thousands of Southern California residents are already without electricity as dangerous Santa Ana winds and hot, dry conditions increase the risk of wildfires across the region.

A Red Flag Warning is in effect for parts of Los Angeles and Ventura counties through 8 p.m. Saturday, according to the National Weather Service. Southern California Edison (SCE) has begun implementing Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) as a precaution to reduce the risk of electrical equipment sparking a wildfire.

As of 11 a.m. Thursday, more than 20,000 customers across Los Angeles, Ventura and Kern counties were experiencing power shutoffs. Another 250,000 or more customers across several counties could potentially lose electricity.

SCE says the temporary outages are necessary when dangerous weather conditions create an increased wildfire threat.

“We absolutely know that these public safety power shutoffs significantly impact our customers’ lives, and losing power any day is a hardship. But we do it for safety reasons,” an SCE spokesperson told KTLA.

Where Are Power Shutoffs Happening?

Here is the breakdown of current outages and areas where additional shutoffs are being considered, based on figures reported at 11 a.m. Thursday.

Current Public Safety Power Shutoffs:

• Los Angeles County: 7,778 customers

• Ventura County: 9,241 customers

• Kern County: 3,859 customers

Additional Shutoffs Being Considered:

• Los Angeles County: 87,981 customers

• Ventura County: 118,832 customers

• Kern County: 18,703 customers

• Santa Barbara County: 12,951 customers

• Tulare County: 1,279 customers

• Fresno County: 26 customers

• Madera County: 16 customers

The numbers could change as weather conditions evolve and utility crews continue monitoring the wildfire threat.

Strong Santa Ana Winds Could Make Conditions Worse

The National Weather Service is forecasting hot, dry weather and Santa Ana winds, with mountain wind gusts potentially reaching 70 mph.

The strongest winds and hottest temperatures, with highs in the upper 80s and 90s, are expected Thursday and Friday. These conditions can rapidly increase the risk of wildfires, particularly in areas with dry vegetation.

How to Check If Your Power Could Be Shut Off

Southern California Edison customers can check their potential outage status and sign up for alerts through the utility's Public Safety Power Shutoff website.

Residents in areas under consideration for shutoffs should prepare for a possible loss of electricity by charging phones and backup batteries, keeping flashlights handy, and making plans for any essential medical equipment that requires power.

Keep in mind that power may not come back on immediately after the winds die down. SCE warns that restoration can take more than eight hours after dangerous winds subside because crews must inspect power lines and electrical equipment to ensure it is safe to restore service.

With dangerous fire weather expected to continue, Southern California residents are encouraged to monitor local alerts, check their utility status and prepare for possible outages.

Image Credit: Amazon Needoh

NeeDoh’s 2026 Advent Calendar Is Already in High Demand — Here’s How to Get One

If you’re hoping to score one of the hottest toys of the holiday season, you might want to get in line now. NeeDoh’s 2026 Squishmas Advent Calendar is already so popular that Amazon is requiring shoppers to request an invitation before they can buy one.

That’s right — you can’t simply add this one to your cart and check out. Amazon has flagged the calendar as a high-demand item with limited quantities, replacing its usual purchase button with a “Request invite” option.

How to Get an Invite for NeeDoh’s Advent Calendar

Want to get your hands on one? The process is pretty simple:

1. Sign in to your Amazon account.

2. Visit the NeeDoh 2026 Squishmas Advent Calendar product page.

3. Click the “Request invite” button.

4. Keep an eye on your email. If Amazon selects your request, you’ll receive a notification when you’re eligible to purchase the calendar.

There’s one catch: requesting an invitation doesn’t guarantee you’ll get one. Amazon says it uses the system to give as many genuine customers as possible a chance to purchase high-demand products, but it may not be able to approve every request.

What’s Inside the NeeDoh Squishmas Advent Calendar?

The calendar from Schylling’s NeeDoh brand features 24 mini squeeze toys, with a new surprise to open each day leading up to Christmas.

Each toy measures approximately 1.25 inches tall, and the collection includes different shapes, textures and squishy sensations. It’s essentially 24 days of stress-relieving fun packed into one holiday countdown.

NeeDoh toys have become a major hit with kids, thanks to their bright colors and satisfying squishy textures. The toys can be squeezed, stretched and smushed before returning to their original shapes. Popular designs include neon cubes, gummy bears and other colorful fidget toys that have become playground favorites.

And while an invitation-only Advent calendar might seem a little ridiculous to anyone who hasn’t been following the latest toy trends, NeeDoh’s popularity helps explain the demand. These squishy toys have become a viral sensation among kids — and plenty of adults enjoy them, too.

With 24 surprises inside, the Squishmas Advent Calendar could be a popular holiday gift for young NeeDoh fans. Just don’t wait until December to start looking for one. If Amazon is already limiting access, getting an invitation may be the first challenge of the Christmas season.

Ready to try your luck? Visit Amazon to request an invitation for the NeeDoh 2026 Squishmas Advent Calendar.

Image Credit: 7-Eleven

7-Eleven Launches New Hispanic-Inspired Snack and Bakery Line

7-Eleven is bringing more sabor to its shelves with a new lineup of Hispanic-inspired snacks and baked goods.

The convenience store giant is expanding its 7-Select private-label brand with the launch of Selección 7, a collection of treats inspired by beloved Hispanic flavors and cultural traditions.

The new lineup includes several packaged bakery items rolling out nationwide, along with a selection of snacks and candy arriving at stores in select regions.

Here’s What’s on the Menu

For fans of Mexican bakery favorites and sweet treats, the new Selección 7 lineup has a few options worth checking out.

• Vanilla and Chocolate Conchas: These classic Mexican sweet breads feature a soft, fluffy interior topped with either a smooth vanilla coating or a rich chocolate finish.

• Mantecadas: These light, fluffy vanilla muffins come in four-packs and offer a sweet treat for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

• Panqué con Nueces: This moist, pound cake-style loaf combines a sweet, spongy texture with the crunchy, nutty flavor of pecans.

The lineup also includes a few options for those craving something sweet, spicy or savory. Depending on the region, shoppers may find Chamoy Aros Durazno, or chamoy peach rings; Chichurritos Fuego, a spicy wheat snack; and Cacahuates Estilo Japonés, also known as Japanese-style peanuts.

A New Way to Celebrate Hispanic Flavors

The launch arrives during Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs annually from September 15 through October 15 and celebrates the history, culture and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities.

The observance began as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 under President Lyndon B. Johnson before being expanded to a monthlong celebration in 1988 under President Ronald Reagan.

According to 7-Eleven, Selección 7 is designed to bring more familiar flavors and new discoveries to its shelves, with additional products potentially joining the growing assortment.

The nationwide bakery rollout means customers across the country will have a chance to try the new treats, while availability of the candy and snack selections will depend on the region.

So, if you're stopping at 7-Eleven for your usual coffee or Slurpee, you might have a few new snacks to add to your shopping list.