60-70 MPH Wind Gusts Forecast In Pass Area, Coachella Valley

BANNING, CA — Gusty conditions forecast this week in the Pass Area prompted the National Weather Service to issue a High Wind Watch for the region.

The Watch is in effect from 8 p.m., Wednesday, January 7, through 1 p.m. Thursday, January 8, according to the NWS.

During this period, west-to-northwest winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts of 60 to 70 mph are possible. The strongest winds will occur on the eastern slopes of the San Bernardino Mountains, the NWS reported.

A Wind Advisory is also in effect during the same period across the Coachella Valley. West winds of 15 to 30 mph with gusts of 40 to 50 mph are forecast, according to the weather agency.

The strong winds can make driving difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles, the NWS warned. "Use extra caution."

NWS models indicate the windy conditions could prevail into the weekend and become more widespread.

High temperatures this week will reach the mid- to high 50s in the Pass Area and the mid-60s in the Coachella Valley, according to the NWS.