Wind gusts could reach 45 mph in SLO County, National Weather Service says

Parts of San Luis Obispo County could see wind gusts of up to 45 mph on Sunday, according to the National Weather Service.

The agency issued a wind advisory for beaches and inland areas in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties. It will remain in effect from noon to 9 p.m. Sunday.

The National Weather Service predicted northwest winds from 15 to 30 mph with gusts as high as 45 mph.

Winds are expected to be strongest right near the coast and foothills, according to the advisory.

The advisory may be extended due to stronger winds coming in from the Tehachapi mountains Sunday night, according to the National Weather Service forecast.

“Gusty winds will make driving difficult and could blow around unsecured objects,” the agency said. “Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result. “Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high-profile vehicle.”

Central Coast areas affected by the advisory include Arroyo Grande, Avila Beach, Cambria, Morro Bay, Nipomo, Pismo Beach and San Luis Obispo.

In Santa Barbara County, affected areas include Buellton, Lompoc and Santa Maria.

PG&E meteorologist John Lindsey told the Tribune the strong winds can bring a significant sea swell of 12 to 14 feet.

The strong winds will also cause the foggy marine layer to “deepen,” he said, with the potential to spill into the inland areas and bring cooler temperatures with it.

Lindsey cautioned against boating or fishing in the Pacific Ocean during the Memorial Day holiday weekend because of the high winds, noting conditions will be “hazardous.”