NWS Issues Wind Advisory

The National Weather Service issued a wind advisory Friday morning for cities along the Los Angeles County Coast, warning that strong northeast winds would develop in the morning and last until early Saturday afternoon.

The advisory, which expires Saturday at 3 p.m., says that wind speeds will range from 15 to 25 mph with gusts of up to 40 mph. The strongest winds will hit Saturday morning.

"Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles" like sport utility vehicles, the NWS said in a statement.

Several weeks ago, strong winds caused power outages across the Los Angeles area. More than 8,000 South Bay residents were affected.

In response to the strong wind warnings issued at the end of November, the Los Angeles Fire Department released a statement offering wind safety tips to residents.

According to the LAFD, strong winds compound wildfire danger, so residents should be careful when using flame-, heat- and spark-producing equipment like barbecues and power tools. Firefighters also discourage using candles, lighters, fire pits and fuel-powered lanterns. Additionally, people living near flammable vegetation should call 911 to report nearby smoke and flames.

People should also conduct a fire safety survey of their property as well as review emergency plans.

Additionally, drivers should be careful when approaching darkened traffic signals, just in case there are downed power lines in the area, according to the LAFD. Drivers should treat darkened and flashing red traffic signals as four-way stops.

Residents should also make sure they secure outdoor furniture and other items that could cause damage if catapulted by a wind gust, according to the LAFD.