It’s a busy morning for fire, rescue and utility personnel as they deal with a variety of emergencies across Lassen County. Strong gusty winds are responsible for downed power lines, uprooted trees and an early morning vegetation fire near the old Bailey Ranch on Honey Lake. That fire has now been controlled by firefighters.
Emergency crews are also reporting numerous trees down along highway 44 and highway 36 near Westwood.
Crews from Lassen Municipal Utility District are out in force this morning working to fix the overnight damage to power lines throughout the area.
Unfortunately the high winds and rain are expected to get much worse before they get better. The National Weather Service is expecting winds to increase beginning at around 10:00a.m. along with heavy rain and snow at the higher elevations.
Be careful out there!
The National Weather Service has issued a High Wind Warning in effect until 4:00a.m. Saturday.
Winds are expected to increase today with the strongest gusts between 10:00a.m. and this evening.
Forecasters are predicting sustained winds of 25 to 45 mph with gusts up to 70 mph. Local gusts to 85 mph are possible in wind prone areas along Highway 395.
These strong winds combined with heavy rain will create dangerous conditions on area highways. Damaging winds will taper off late Friday night.
The NWS reminds area residents that damage to trees, power lines and property is possible with winds of this magnitude. Travel will become hazardous for high profile vehicles and drivers should use extra caution and remain alert for sudden gusts or cross-winds.
For more information you can always find current conditions at LassenWeatherNetwork.com.
