Showers and Gusty Wind in the Forecast

By City News Service, photo via Shutterstock

The strong gusty winds blustering along the San Gorgonio Pass near Banning are expected to continue today as rain falls throughout Riverside County.

A National Weather Service wind advisory is scheduled to remain in effect at the pass until 9 p.m. Westerly winds of 25 to 35 miles per hour are forecast for the area, along with gusts that may reach 60 mph.

“Strong gusty winds will continue in the deserts through this evening,” according to the weather service. “The strongest winds will occur through and east of the San Gorgonio Pass and in the Anza-Borrego Desert.”

Scattered showers are also expected along the pass this morning.

Rain was also in the forecast for the valleys and mountains of Riverside County today, along with a slight chance of thunderstorms this morning. NWS forecasters estimated a 50 percent chance of measurable precipitation.

Isolated showers are expected in the Coachella Valley this morning, along with 15 to 20 mph winds and gusts that could reach 30 mph. The Coachella Valley was not included under the wind advisory.

Forecasters said the wind could cause hazardous driving conditions on desert roads, especially along Interstate 10 north of Palm Springs. Visibility along some desert roadways could be reduced by blowing sand and dust. Drivers were advised to use extra caution.