California WinCalifornia Wind Alert: Gusts Up to 50 MPH to Hit Mojave Slopes Through 5 AM Fridayd Alert: Gusts Up to 50 MPH to Hit Mojave Slopes Through 5 AM Friday
A Wind Advisory has been issued for the area through 5 a.m. Friday due to the strong winds predicted to blow over the Mojave Slopes beginning tonight. Drivers on main thoroughfares should be ready for dangerous crosswinds and poor visibility.
A low-pressure trough moving south into the Great Basin is expected to cause persistent winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts as high as 50 mph, according to the Hanford National Weather Service. The Tehachapi Mountains’ downslope wind pattern is anticipated to increase wind speeds throughout the Mojave Desert and nearby slopes.
Travel routes along U.S. Highway 395 and California Highways 14, 58, and 178 are affected. The strongest gusts are expected to hit cities and localities throughout the evening and overnight, including Mojave, Red Rock Canyon, and Cache Creek.
Officials advise high-profile vehicles to avoid travel during the alert, especially regarding mountain routes and open desert areas. Residents are advised to lock up unsecured outside objects and to be on the lookout for unexpected traffic dangers brought on by drifting debris or power outages. Winds are predicted to lessen by Friday morning, though higher elevations may see lingering gusts.
