[NWS] – West to northwest winds continue to increase Tuesday afternoon in association with a cold and vigorous upper-level trough moving through the area.

The snow level may lower locally to 3,500 feet. There may be brief, heavy rainfall with small hail. Isolated to scattered showers are possible through Tuesday evening.

As the system shifts eastward Tuesday night, winds will shift to the north and further strengthen. The strongest winds will occur in the mountains, where damaging wind gusts to 65 mph can be expected. Widespread gusts between 35 mph and 55 mph can be expected across remaining portions of the forecast area.

The combination of strong winds and recent wet soils will bring the potential for downed trees and branches across portions of the Southland. The winds will shift to the northeast and remain gusty Wednesday.

An influx of cold air will move into the Southland Tuesday night, with sub-freezing temperatures across the mountains, deserts and wind-sheltered valleys. The cold temperatures, combined with recent moisture on the ground, will also bring the potential for black ice conditions on mountain roadways overnight into Wednesday morning.