Winds Create Problems For Travelers On The Road

Thanksgiving travel in parts of the Inland Empire was a challenge today as high winds blew dust and debris onto roadways.

At 8 a.m., the California Highway Patrol issued a wind advisory from the San Bernardino County line south to Moreno Valley, with officers reporting gusty conditions on the Pomona (60) and Riverside (91) freeways.

On the eastbound 60, dust clouds appeared on a stretch between Interstate 15 and Pedley and large tumbleweeds skipped across the freeway in front of cars.

Air traffic controllers at Riverside Municipal Airport reported winds averaging 28 mph with gusts to 35.

The National Weather Service warned drivers of high-profile vehicles to use “extra caution” through canyons and passes. The agency issued a wind warning at 9 a.m., saying Santa Ana conditions were expected to persist until mid-afternoon.

“Winds aloft combined with building surface high pressure over the interior will cause a moderately strong offshore flow today,” the NWS said in a statement. “A weaker offshore flow will continue through Friday.”