Weather officials issue gusty wind advisory

DAILY SOUND STAFF REPORT

Weather officials are urging local residents to use caution when driving or sailing due to gusty winds that are expected to hit the region this afternoon and last through early Wednesday morning.
The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory from 2 p.m. today until 9 a.m. Wednesday. Gusts of up to 35 miles per hour will hit the South Coast and mountain regions of the county early this afternoon, increasing to 40 mph this evening.

“The strongest winds will be below passes and canyons, especially near Gaviota this afternoon and near Montecito later tonight,” according to the wind advisory.
In addition to posing a threat to high-profile vehicles, the heavy winds will create hazardous sea conditions in outer coastal waters, officials said.
Although the northwest gale force winds are expected to weaken Wednesday, weather officials warned an offshore buildup of high pressure might affect the Santa Barbara area again Wednesday night.