Winds increase for the start of March
As we head toward the weekend, there will be various wind advisories and warnings going into effect and expiring at various times. Most importantly for the Coachella Valley, a Wind Advisory will be in effect from 12 PM Saturday through 4 AM Saturday.
Winds will be strongest on Saturday, but we will certainly feel some widespread breezes before then. The strongest winds will be in the pass and High Desert, but gusts here on the valley floor could easily exceed 30 MPH.
A Winter Storm Watch will also be in effect this weekend from 4 AM Saturday through 1 PM Sunday. This is mainly for folks at or above 5,000 feet. Winds may gust upwards of 80 MPH, so be very careful if you must travel through these areas. Some snow will fall, but mostly above 6,000 feet.
The reason for these winds is a large area of low pressure which will be moving into the western US this weekend. The winds will also usher in some cooler temperatures.
A First Alert Weather Alert has been issued for Saturday in anticipation of the gusty winds. However, breezy to gusty conditions are also expected for Friday and Sunday.