Ridgecrest, California – Gusty desert winds will ramp up Monday afternoon and persist into Wednesday, bringing the risk of travel difficulties and isolated power outages across parts of Kern County and the Mojave Desert.
A Wind Advisory is in effect from 4 p.m. Monday to 4 p.m. PST Wednesday for the West Side Mountains north and south of Highway 198, Buena Vista, Indian Wells Valley, Mojave Desert Slopes and the Mojave Desert. Cities impacted include Ridgecrest, California City, Mojave, Rosamond, Taft, Inyokern and Edwards Air Force Base.
According to the National Weather Service in Hanford, southwest winds of 15 to 25 mph are expected, with gusts reaching up to 45 mph at times. The strongest winds are likely during the late afternoon and evening hours each day.
Loose outdoor objects may be blown around, and tree limbs could be knocked down. Isolated power outages are possible, particularly in exposed desert communities. Blowing dust may reduce visibility along Highway 58, Highway 14 and Highway 178, especially for high-profile vehicles.
Drivers of trucks, vans and RVs should use extra caution, particularly through mountain passes and open desert stretches. Secure patio furniture, trash bins and lightweight equipment before winds increase Monday afternoon.
According to local emergency managers, residents should prepare for minor disruptions and monitor updated statements if stronger gusts develop.
