SAN DIEGO (CNS) - Strong, gusty winds were expected to buffet San Diego County mountains and deserts tonight, and slightly weaker winds were expected in the coastal areas and valleys on Monday, forecasters said.
The National Weather Service issued a high wind warning, scheduled to take effect in the county's mountains and deserts at 6 p.m. tonight and extend through 9 p.m. Monday.
Sustained winds of between 25 and 35 mph are expected in those areas with gusts that could reach up to 70 mph in some areas, according to the weather service. Sustained wind speeds of at least 40 mph or gusts of 58 mph or more can lead to property damage, meteorologists said.
The strong winds could make driving difficult, especially for motorists in high profile vehicles. Blowing sand and dust could reduce visibility in the deserts.
The winds had already hit north of Los Angeles, where wind warnings were
A less severe wind advisory for coastal and valley areas set to take effect at noon Monday. Winds of 15 to 25 miles per hour with gusts of up to 35 mph are expected, which could down palm tree fronds or other tree limbs and make driving difficult. Motorists in high profile vehicles were advised to use extra caution.
The strongest and most widespread winds near San Diego were expected Monday afternoon through early Monday evening, the weather service statement said.
Forecasters attributed the winds to a cold low pressure system from the Gulf of Alaska that will move through the Great basin on Monday to near the Four Corners Monday night. It is expected to increase the onshore flow with strong west winds tonight through Monday evening.
