The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a High Wind Watch for the Malibu area and the south central coast of California, beginning Wednesday evening and lasting through Friday at 5 p.m.
The watch begins 5 p.m. Wednesday, when “very strong winds” are “expected to develop across portions of southwest California later today and continue through at least Friday.” The heaviest winds are expected Thursday night into Friday morning, where gusts between 60 and 80 miles per hour are expected in the Santa Monica Mountains area, and surrounding areas such as the Santa Clarita Valley, Interstate 5 Corridor, Antelope Valley and southern Santa Barbara County.
The High Wind Watch means “conditions are favorable for potentially damaging winds,” and those in the area should “be prepared to secure all loose outdoor furniture in advance of the onset of strong winds.” Driving, especially high profile vehicles and vehicles towing trailers, may be treacherous.Â
The NWS has also issued marine weather messages, including a Small Craft Advisory in effect until 3 a.m. Thursday and a Gale Warning from noon Thursday to 3 a.m. Friday.
“Combined seas of 11 to 14 feet with periods around 9 seconds are expected when waves are largest,” the warning reads.
Inexperienced mariners, especially those in small crafts, are advised to avoid going out in these conditions.
“Operating a vessel in gale conditions requires experience and properly equipped vessels. It is highly recommended that mariners without the proper experience seek safe harbor prior to the onset of gale conditions,” the NWS advised.Â