High Wind — Orange County Coastal Areas, California

2011-02-03 · Orange County Coastal Areas, California

Event narrative

High winds began in Fremont Canyon between 1230 and 1330 PST, during which time a peak gust of 60 MPH was measured by the Fremont Canyon RAWS. High winds ended between 1530 and 1630 PST.

A tree, blown down by winds, blocked traffic for about 45 minutes on the westbound 22 connector to northbound I-5. No injuries reported.

Wider weather episode

A strong cold upper level low pressure system moved southward from the Four Corners region into northern Mexico. Strong surface high pressure settled over the Great Basin and helped to bring strong offshore winds from the 2nd through the 4th of the month. The strongest winds occurred in and below the canyons and passes, causing downed trees and power lines.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 284788. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.