High Winds Kick Up Dust, Bring Down Tree Limbs In Palm Desert

Strong winds kicked up dust, snapped tree limbs and blew around patio furniture in the Palm Desert area Tuesday.

A high wind advisory was in effect through 3 a.m. Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.

Rita DiCarlo of Palm Desert, who sent in photos of the storm, told Patch that a tree limb broke on San Pablo Avenue in Palm Desert.

"It was a very loud crack from the wind gusts," DiCarlo said, adding that she called the non-emergency number for police and they arrived within five minutes.

Gusts of between 35 to 65 mph and up to 80 mph were expected near the desert mountain slopes, forecasters warned.

In nearby Palm Springs, blowing dust and sand prompted the closure of Gene Autry Trail, the California Highway Patrol reported.

"Drivers of high profile vehicles must be cautious on the freeway," Officer Joseph Zagorski said. "If it becomes too difficult to maintain their vehicle within their lane, the driver should exit the freeway and wait until safe to continue. Do not stop on the right shoulder."

The strongest winds could bring down tree limbs and cause minor structure damage, according to the NWS.

The South Coast Air Quality Management District issued a dust advisory that is in effect through Wednesday morning because of the high winds.

What damage are you seeing from the winds?