A palm tree branch falls on the road on Ocean Boulevard in Long Beach Friday afternoon. Photos by Stephanie Rivera.
The National Weather Service has sent out a wind advisory on Friday for coastal communities in the County of Los Angeles, including Long Beach.
The wind advisory will remain in effect until 8:00PM on Friday, December 11.
“In the wake of a passing cold front, gusty west to northwest winds will impact portions of southwest California today into this evening, especially coastal areas of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, the mountains and Antelope Valley,” the NWS stated.
NWS officials also stated the possibility of stronger northwest to north winds across the mountains of both counties Friday night into early Saturday.
Coastal areas will be affected with 15 to 25 miles-per-hour winds and gusts from 35 to 40 miles per hour from Friday afternoon into the evening. Isolated gusts to 45 miles per hour can be expected across the higher terrain of Catalina, officials added.
A passerby reacts to a falling palm tree branch on Ocean Boulevard in Long Beach.
Authorities caution that the strong winds may down trees and branches, especially considering the weakened state of trees due to prolonged drought conditions.
In downtown Long Beach, several palm tree branches were seen blocking the road around midday.
The public is advised to use extra caution when driving and be prepared for sudden gusty cross winds.