Thunderstorm Wind — Imperial, California

2025-08-24 · near Seeley, Imperial, California

Event narrative

Sunbeam Rest Area located on the eastbound side of I-8 west of El Centro was closed due to damage. Wind gusts were estimated at 55-60 mph. Timing estimated from radar. No injuries were reported.

Wider weather episode

The subtropical high pressure was situated near the Four Corners Region with south to southeasterly flow in place across much of southern CA. This southerly flow pulled in abundant moisture with Precipitable Water Values exceeding 1.5. The combination of the moisture and daytime heating resulted in MLCAPE in excess of 1000 J/KG with DCAPE values in excess of 1500 J/KG. Widespread thunderstorms developed during the early afternoon across the San Diego Mountains and the northern Baja chain with an isolated severe thunderstorm erupting over southern portions of the Imperial Valley just southwest of El Centro. This thunderstorm was nearly stationary producing damaging winds and blowing dust.

View location on OpenStreetMap → (32.7735, -115.6698)

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1289397. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.