California Faces High Winds, Thunderstorms This Weekend

California is bracing for a significant wind event through the weekend, with the Bay Area expecting gusts of 30 to 40 mph, particularly intense in coastal and elevated locations. Inland regions like San Jose and Concord will also face hazardous gusts, and residents are advised to secure outdoor items and be cautious when traveling. Southern California will experience cooler temperatures, a chance of showers, and increasingly strong winds, especially Saturday through Sunday, with mountain and desert gusts reaching 40 to 75 mph—particularly in the northern Coachella Valley. A marine Gale Watch is in effect off the San Diego coast, where winds may hit 40 knots and seas could build to 10 feet, posing dangers to vessels. Beachgoers should also be aware of hazardous surf and rip currents in Orange County. The National Weather Service urges caution for outdoor activities, travel, and maritime operations during this period.