Southern California is bracing for intense wind gusts, reaching up to 65 mph, continuing through Tuesday. This forecast follows recent heavy rain that drenched the region, raising concerns over potential damages.
Wind Forecast and Warnings
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings for strong winds affecting various areas including the western Santa Monica Mountains, Santa Susana Mountains, and San Gabriel Mountains. These winds are anticipated to escalate starting Sunday evening and continue until Monday afternoon.
- Wind Speeds: Initial winds of 20 to 30 mph are expected.
- Peak Gusts: Northeastern winds could reach up to 40 mph.
- Maximum Gusts: Gusts could hit 65 mph in certain valleys and mountains.
Travel Advisories
Authorities caution that travel may become challenging, primarily for high-profile vehicles. The NWS emphasizes the risk of power outages due to downed trees and power lines in affected areas.
Secondary Forecasts in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties
Similar weather alerts highlight conditions in Riverside and San Bernardino counties. Here, northeast winds of up to 30 mph are also predicted, with gusts potentially reaching 60 mph.
Impact of Recent Rainfall
The heavy rain earlier this week has saturated the soil, increasing the risks associated with strong winds. The NWS indicates that downed trees and power lines are more likely under these conditions.
Recent Weather Events
The region has recently experienced severe weather, causing significant issues:
- Debris flows disrupting homes in Wrightwood.
- Three fatalities attributed to storm-related incidents, including one in San Diego from a falling tree.
- A rare tornado struck Boyle Heights on Christmas morning.
Looking Ahead
As we progress into the new week, more rainfall is on the horizon, with the chance of rain persisting through New Year’s Day. Residents are advised to stay alert and prepared for worsening conditions.
