SDG&E Crews Ready to Respond to High Winds Friday

High winds expected in the Anza Borrego Desert area Thursday night caused San Diego Gas & Electric Co. to stage extra crews in the area. The National Weather Service issued a high wind warning for San Diego County mountains and deserts through 10 p.m.

A high wind warning is in effect from 1 p.m. Friday to at least 1 p.m. Saturday in the San Diego County mountains and inland valleys. Gusts of at least 65 mph can be expected. Sustained winds up to 35 mph are expected to blow northeast to east. Residents should monitor weather forecasts for updates.

SDG&E monitors 128 weather stations attached to power poles mainly in East and North County high fire risk areas. Thirty-six are in Ramona, according to spokeswoman Allison Zaragoza. During high wind events, extra crews are dispatched from the utility's control center in San Diego to areas as needed.

The National Weather Service is cautioning motorists to be on the lookout for any downed power poles or trees and to exercise caution driving through mountain passes, foothills and along the Interstate 8 corridor during high winds.