High winds expected to roll in today

It is windy as hell this morning!!!

High winds expected to roll in today

By MELISSA EISELEIN
The Press-Enterprise

High winds are forecast to hit the Inland area today with 80 mph gusts that could topple big rigs and reduce visibility, according to the National Weather Service.

High-wind warnings are in effect through 6 p.m. today. Dry weather and winds also prompted the National Weather Service to issue red flag warnings through Tuesday, said National Weather Service meteorologist Mike Lavis, who is based in San Diego.

Sustained winds of 25 to 40 mph today could reduce visibility to zero and overturn big rigs, especially in the Cajon Pass and other pass areas along interstates 15 and 10, Lavis said.

California Department of Forestry units in Riverside and San Bernardino counties have put a special staffing pattern into effect. All members of hand crew units are working in both counties, officials said. In Riverside, a 24-hour bulldozer staff and an extra air tanker are also in place, said fire Capt. Julie Hutchinson.

Hutchinson cautions people to use extra care when disposing of cigarette butts and riding motorcycles in brushy areas during the red-flag warning.

"People need to use caution. No open fires and they should be on the lookout for smoke and report it as soon as possible," Hutchinson said.