Gold area = High Wind Warning and Light Pink area = Wind Advisory
HANFORD — The National Weather Service Hanford Office has issued a Wind Advisory and High Wind Warning for areas of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Yosemite National Park and the surrounding foothills beginning Friday morning and continuing until Saturday afternoon. This has people’s attention considering it was one year ago almost to the day that our communities experienced a highly destructive Mono Wind event which Sierra News Online covered here.
This weekend’s event is not predicted to be anything compared to last year, however some preparations are recommended:
- Secure outdoor items.
- Drive with caution.
- Have an emergency kit ready in the case of a power outage that could be caused by downed power lines.
High Wind Warning
A High Wind Warning is in effect from Friday morning until Noon Saturday for Yosemite National Park (excluding Yosemite Valley) and portions of the Sierra National Forest. Wind gusts in excess of 75 mph are expected and areas of wind damage are likely.
A High Wind Warning means a hazardous high wind event is expected or occurring. Sustained wind speeds of at least 40 mph or gusts of 58 mph or more can lead to property damage. Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines and widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.
Wind Advisory
A Wind Advisory is in effect for the remainder of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Yosemite Valley and surrounding foothill locations, as well as portions of the Kern County mountains and desert from Friday morning through Saturday afternoon.
*Northeast winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 55 mph expected.
*Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects.
*Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.
*Avoid forested areas as damaging wind gusts will blow down trees and branches. Stay clear of power lines.
As always, Sierra News Online will be monitoring these events and reporting any traffic hazards, accidents and emergencies on our Facebook page.
