Strong Wind — Catalina Island, California

2014-12-30 · Catalina Island, California

Direct deaths

37 MG

Magnitude

Event narrative

Strong northeast winds developed across Avalon Harbor on Catalina Island. Sustained winds of 36 MPH with gusts to 43 MPH generated very steep and rough waves (4 to 8 feet). The combination of the wind and waves broke the moorings off of several boats and caused other damage. A harbor patrolman was crushed between a boat and some rocks. Another person was found dead, floating in the water.

Wider weather episode

Strong surface high pressure in the Great Basin generated strong and gusty north to northeast winds across sections of Ventura and Los Angeles counties. The strongest winds were reported in the mountains of Los Angeles county as well as the eastern valleys of Ventura county. Additionally, the northeast winds reached offshore to Catalina Island and resulted in the death of two people, including one harbor patrolman.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 553293. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.