Southern California is experiencing a barrage of high winds, isolated showers, snowfall in the mountains, and hazardous air quality as a cold storm system traverses the region. The National Weather Service predicts the storm to dissipate by Saturday morning, with warmer conditions anticipated over the weekend.
Significant winds, with gusts reaching 70 mph, have been recorded in the Coachella Valley, Antelope Valley, and San Bernardino County mountains, prompting wind advisories and warnings. The storm also brings a slight possibility of light showers and thunderstorms, primarily in the mountains and foothills. San Diego County and portions of the Central Valley are anticipated to receive some rainfall, while the Sierra Nevada could see up to two inches of snowfall.
A high surf advisory is also in effect for western-facing beaches, with breaking waves reaching 4 to 8 feet and dangerous rip currents, according to the National Weather Service. However, the storm is expected to pass by Saturday, and with the exception of higher elevations that may experience lingering winds, drier conditions and progressively warmer temperatures are anticipated throughout the weekend and into the middle of next week.
