High Wind — Santa Monica Mountains Recreation Area, California

2011-12-01 · Santa Monica Mountains Recreation Area, California

Event narrative

The Malibu Hills RAWS sensor reported north to northeast wind gusts of 59 MPH.

Wider weather episode

On December 1st, a strong north to northeast wind event, which developed on November 30th, continued across sections of Southern California. Widespread wind gusts between 60 and 70 MPH were reported across the mountains of Ventura county as well as the mountains and valleys of Los Angeles county through December 1st. Widespread power outages were reported, especially across the San Gabriel Valley where over 350,000 residents lost power. In the city of Pasadena, significant wind damage was reported with at least 42 buildings red-tagged due to wind damage. Along with the power outages, numerous trees were uprooted or severely damaged from La Canada-Flintridge to Monrovia. Strong northerly cross winds at Los Angeles International Airport resulted in 23 flights being diverted to Ontario International Airport.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 353410. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.