Banning, Calif. – Dangerous winds are expected to sweep across Southern California beginning Friday morning, with gusts reaching 60 mph in some areas and making travel hazardous into early Saturday. The National Weather Service has issued wind advisories for the San Gorgonio Pass near Banning as well as the Mojave Desert and Indian Wells Valley.
According to the National Weather Service in San Diego, the strongest winds in the San Gorgonio Pass are expected Friday afternoon and overnight, with sustained speeds of 25 to 35 mph and gusts up to 60 mph. Farther north, the Hanford office reports similar conditions developing Friday across Mojave, Ridgecrest, and California City, with gusts near 50 mph and blowing dust reducing visibility along desert highways.
Drivers on Interstate 10 near Banning and Highway 14 near Mojave should be prepared for sudden crosswinds, particularly high-profile vehicles. Power outages and downed tree limbs are possible, and residents are urged to secure outdoor items before conditions peak.
Advisories remain in effect through early Saturday morning, with winds gradually easing into the weekend.
