A storm system expected on Monday, Feb. 16 may bring heavy precipitation and wind to the Coachella Valley.
The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory and winter storm warning for the region.
In effect from 10 a.m., Monday to 1 a.m., Tuesday, the wind advisory says sustained winds of 25 miles per hour to 35 miles per hour are expected, with gusts from 50 to 60 miles per hour to the San Gorgonio Pass.
“Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects,” the federal agency said. “Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.”
Wind gusts between 65 to 70 miles per hour are also possible Tuesday and Wednesday.
In addition, heavy snow is expected in the mountains just west of Palm Springs.
On Monday, NWS forecasts between three to six inches between 6,000 to 7,000 feet, with the amount increasing with height. Up to 24 inches of snow could accumulate 8,000 feet and above.
Another round of snowfall is expected on Wednesday night into Thursday, with four to nine inches of snow possible between 6,000 feet and 7,000 feet.
Wind gusts of up to 70 miles per hour could be possible on the desert side of the mountains.
“Travel could be very difficult to impossible,” NWS said in the warning. “The hazardous conditions could impact the Monday evening and Tuesday morning commutes. Very strong winds could cause extensive tree damage.”
Snow could reach as low as 4,000 feet Wednesday morning.
“If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency,” NWS said. “The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.”
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: High winds, precipitation headed for Coachella Valley on Monday
Reporting by Sam Morgen, Palm Springs Desert Sun / Palm Springs Desert Sun
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
