Forecasters: Prepare for a windy one
Weather forecasters are calling it a “wind event” capable of taking the inflatable front yard Frosty the Snowman airborne and tossing about high profile vehicles.
National Weather Service meteorologists are asking residents exercise caution Friday and Saturday as gusts exceed freeway speeds.
Forecasters at the Los Angeles-Oxnard area office have called for wind gusts in the Santa Clarita Valley to reach 65 miles per hour shortly after midnight Friday.
Sustained winds are forecast to remain in the 20 to 25 mile per hour range through at least Saturday evening.
Hours before the expected weather system takes hold, meteorologist Kathy Hoxsie stressed the importance of taking precautions with flying debris and potential hazards on the road.
“We advise people to be just cautious and aware when driving,” Hoxsie said Thursday afternoon.
People traveling in high profile vehicles should take extra
caution when traveling at highway speeds. A sudden and strong wind gust could spell disaster for oversized and tall recreational vehicles and semi trucks towing trailers as several laws of physics would prove.
And as far as physics go, you can expect high winds displace patio furniture. Hoxsie encouraged homeowners to move loose lightweight outdoor items to a safer location, such as a garage or shed – and yes, this certainly applies to the inflatable holiday decor on your front lawn.
Hoxsie also warned against other flying debris from trees including branches. In some cases, unsteady trees with weak roots can list to one side and potentially fall. In all scenarios, exercising vigilance is recommended.