60 MPH Gusts In RSM As Powerful Winds Hit Orange County

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA — Rancho Santa Margarita residents will want to hold onto their hats, as the National Weather Service issued a High Wind Watch from Tuesday evening through Wednesday evening.

Residents can expects northeast winds ranging from 20 miles per hour to 35 miles per hour, with gusts up to 60 miles per hour. In specific canyon areas, residents can expect localized gusts up to 70 miles per hour.

Along with high winds at the start of the week, Rancho Santa Margarita residents can expect cooler temperatures in the mid-'70s and high-'60s, with the warmest temperatures occurring on Wednesday at 75 degrees, according to Accuweather.

Gusts could reach 65-75 mph in the Los Angeles County foothills and in the I-5 corridor, including the Cajon pass, the Orange County Register reported.

The High Wind Watch affects inland Orange County areas, including: Mission Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, Lake Forest, Santa Ana, Anaheim, Irvine and Fullerton.

"Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines," the National Weather Service's report said. "Widespread power outages are possible. Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles."

The National Weather Service also advised that the most aggressive winds would likely occur Wednesday.

Residents were advised to monitor the latest forecasts and warnings for updates on the wind advisory. The National Weather Service also recommended fastening loose outdoor objects, or sheltering objects in a safe place prior to the high winds.