SOUTHLAND - (INT) - Autumn’s first outbreak of Santa Ana winds is taking aim at Southern California.

The onslaught follows the weekend rainstorm that brought 1-2 inches to much of the Southland.

A Red Flag Fire Warning calls for 30-40 mile an hour winds with gusts to 60 mph at times. Highest gusts of 80 mph possible through and immediately below passes and canyons. The National Weather Service warns of downed trees and power lines, difficult driving conditions especially for high profile vehicles and blowing dust that may limit visibility.

The strong winds were blowing ashes and debris from the Holy Fire onto Highway 74 (Ortega Highway) in the Santa Ana Mountains Monday.

There are reports of power failures and fallen trees in many foothill communities.

Much drier humidity and warmer temperatures are likely through Tuesday. Sunny, dry weather will finish out the week.

A few clouds are likely this coming weekend.

Saturday’s wetting rains could mitigate the fire weather concerns. The usually arid deserts got a soaking with up to 2.68 inches at Means Dry Lake north of Yucca Valley where some flash flooding occurred.

Rangers at the Joshua Tree National Park report major road damage with power outages at many buildings. The visitor center and campground at the Cottonwood area will be closed for several days.

Storm totals:
Riverside .80
Ontario .79
San Bernardino .83
Hemet .89
Moreno Valley .80
Running Springs 1.27
Palm Springs .91
Indio 1.10

Story Date: October 15, 2018