25 MPH Winds to Return Through Friday Afternoon

Strong winds will pick up Thursday morning in the Los Angeles mountains and along the coast, blowing up to 25 mph in Santa Monica.

The gusty and potentially damaging Santa Ana winds are expected through 2 p.m. Friday, the National Weather Service said.

"Winds will increase through the morning, diminish slightly later this afternoon and evening and then peak again Friday morning," Weather Service forecasters said.

A wind warning stated that the strongest winds are expected in the mountains in both LA and Ventura counties, as well as the Santa Clarita, Ventura County, San Fernando and San Gabriel valleys. Strong winds are also expected along the coast from the Ventura County line to the Hollywood Hills, according to the warning.

The Weather Service predicted that winds in the Santa Monica Mountains and Topanga will be between 25-40 mph, with gusts reaching up to 65 mph.

High winds may cause downed trees and power lines. So officials are warning residents never to touch downed power lines, even if it seems like it's not live, and to call 911 to report it immediately.

On Thursday in Santa Monica, expect daytime temperatures in the low 60s and nighttime temperatures in the low 40s. 

It will be sunny throughout the week, and a slight warm-up is in store after the winds diminish. The forecast calls for a high of 73 degrees Christmas day.