Near-record warmth today to be followed by strong winds on Wednesday
Quick Take
After temperatures in the 70s, a system will bring north-northeasterly winds and gusts to the Santa Cruz Mountains, peaking between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. on Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.
A weather system will bring north-northeasterly winds and gusts to the Santa Cruz Mountains and parts of the Bay Area beginning Tuesday night and peaking Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service, but “fire danger remains low” given recent rains.
A Wind Advisory has been issued between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. Wednesday, when winds are expected to be their strongest.
“Tuesday is still expected to have clear skies, dry conditions, and temperatures that will be warm enough to be near records,” forecasters said in a briefing Tuesday morning. The high in Santa Cruz is expected to be 73 degrees.
“The forecast remains on track for offshore winds to increase on Wednesday as the next system sinks southward toward the Bay Area, prompting the issuance of a Wind Advisory for the North Bay Mountains, East Bay Hills and the Santa Cruz Mountains.”
Winds are expected to be between 15 mph and 30 mph, gusting up to 40 mph. Winds are forecast to diminish late on Wednesday night, remaining locally gusty at highest peaks and ridges into early Thursday morning.
“Drier conditions will be present with these offshore winds, but with recent rains, fire concerns remain low at this time. Strong wind gusts could cause limbs/trees to topple and result in potential power outages.”
After a quiet Thursday and Friday, forecasters are keeping an eye out for more windy conditions over the weekend.