Dust Advisory Issued In Eastern RivCo. Amid Strong Gusts

PALM SPRINGS, CA — A windblown dust advisory will be in effect beginning Saturday evening through Sunday night in the San Gorgonio Pass area near Banning and the eastern Coachella Valley due to strong wind gusts.

The National Weather Service is forecasting westerly to southwesterly gusts of up to 65 mph in the mountains and deserts from 8 p.m. Saturday to 11 p.m. Sunday, triggering the dust advisory.

High winds could kick up dust and create unhealthy air conditions, according to the South Coast Air Quality Management District. The San Bernardino Mountains near the 2020 wildfire burn scars may also experience blowing ash, SCAQMD officials warned.

Residents in wind-impacted areas were encouraged to limit exposure by remaining indoors with windows and doors closed, and to avoid vigorous physical activity.

The weather service said blowing dust and sand in the deserts may also greatly reduce visibility.

Residents can check their air quality in real time by downloading the South Coast AQMD app -- www.aqmd.gov/mobileapp -- available in English and Spanish, or by viewing the AQI map found at the bottom of the www.AQMD.gov homepage.

—City News Service