Quick Take:

The National Weather Service is warning that wind gusts up to 50 mph could bring elevated fire risk to the Santa Cruz Mountains from 5 p.m. Wednesday until 5 a.m. Thursday.

The Santa Cruz Mountains will see gusty winds — and elevated fire risk — late Wednesday into Thursday morning, the National Weather Service warned Tuesday.

The agency has issued a wind advisory from 5 p.m. Wednesday until 5 a.m. Thursday, with gusts expected around 25-35 mph and peaking around 40-50 mph.

The advisory is in effect for the Santa Cruz Mountains, the North Bay, San Francisco and the Peninsula, the East Bay Hills and the Santa Lucia, Diablo and Gabilan mountain ranges.

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Sustained winds of 10-20 mph are expected along the coast Wednesday, becoming more widespread in higher elevations along the Central Coast and inland across most of the Bay Area.

“Fire concerns should remain low along the windier coastal regions as fuels are near average and have been moistened by the recent intrusion of marine drizzle in the past few days,” NWS forecasters said. “However, folks should still exercise caution and prevent any sparks, especially for areas farther inland.”

Gusts could hit 40-50 mph during the NWS wind advisory.
Gusts could hit 40-50 mph during the NWS wind advisory. Credit: National Weather Service

Strong wind gusts can cause limbs or branches to topple and result in power outages, the agency warned, adding that driving could be hazardous, particularly for high-profile vehicles. Residents in affected areas should secure temporary outdoor structures and furniture.