San Diegans are buckling down as the National Weather Service issued a series of advisories for the region, warning of gusty conditions across land and sea. A Wind Advisory is in place until 3 PM PST this afternoon, with the potential for "west winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts to 55 mph, locally up to 60 mph below the San Gorgonio Pass," according to the National Weather Service San Diego.
The San Bernardino County Mountains, Apple and Lucerne Valleys, and San Gorgonio Pass Near Banning are on alert for flying debris and downed tree limbs. Residents have been advised to secure outdoor objects and operate vehicles with caution. A statement obtained by the National Weather Service San Diego commented, "Strongest winds will occur on the desert slopes of the San Bernardino mountains into the High Desert and below the San Gorgonio Pass. Winds will peak this morning."
Through 7 PM this evening, mariners are also facing choppy conditions with the National Weather Service maintaining a Small Craft Advisory for waters from San Mateo Point to the Mexican Border, extending 30 to 60 nm out, including San Clemente Island. The advisory warns of "northwest winds 15 to 20 kt with gusts to 25 kt," which could pose hazards to smaller craft and inexperienced mariners are urged to avoid navigating in such conditions.
Meanwhile, the San Diego County Mountains and Deserts are not exempt from these gusty winds either, with 20 to 30 mph winds and gusts reaching up to 55 mph slated to persist through the afternoon. The National Weather Service indicates that, "Strongest winds will occur from the desert slopes of the San Diego County mountains to adjacent parts of the deserts. Winds will peak late this morning," signaling a need for caution in these areas as well.
Weather spotters in the area have not been activated but are encouraged to report significant weather conditions to the National Weather Service. While this disturbance is expected to die down by evening, another round of windy weather is slated for Wednesday, adding an element of uncertainty for Southern California residents hoping for a return to fair skies and calmer days ahead.
