Whipping winds dominate in Southern California

LOS ANGELES - Several weather advisories were in place across Southern California as high winds dominated the forecast Thursday. 

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A Wind Advisory was in effect before expiring 1 a.m. Friday for several communities in Los Angeles, Ventura and San Bernardino counties, including Santa Clarita, Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Long Beach, Santa Monica, Wrightwood, Moorpark, Northridge, Santa Monica, Calabasas, Agoura Hills, Piru, Mountain Wilson and Mount Baldy. 

The National Weather Service said northwest winds between 20 and 30 mph with gusts up to 50 to 60 mph were expected. 

FOX 11 meteorologist Maria Quiban said wind gusts were expected to be particularly strong along parts of the 5 Freeway, including the Tejon Pass.

The NWS also warned the winds could blow around unsecured objects and driving could become difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles. 

Along the Grapevine, the winds and snow made for challenging driving conditions.

FOX 11’s Gigi Graciette was at the scene of a downed tree in Sherman Oaks Thursday morning. The area was susceptible to damage since the ground was already soaked from the rain that moved through the area Wednesday. 

In addition to high winds, the region could expect cool temperatures overnight. A Frost Advisory was in effect from 2 a.m. to 6 a.m. on Thursday and Friday in the Inland Empire, with lows hovering around 40 degrees.

Snow is expected to fall at high elevations. Video posted online shows drivers caught in a snow storm on the 15 freeway near Mountain Pass.

A High Surf Advisory was also in effect in Ventura County through 9 p.m. Thursday, where a rogue wave caused flooding last week.

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Another storm was expected to make its way into the region by the weekend, bringing chances of a second round of rain and snow to the mountain communities.