Severe Weather Alert
-
Image by Sam Ochiuto, KMIR6 News
COACHELLA VALLEY - Strong wind gusts of between 80-90 mph closed the Palm Springs Tram Saturday. Employees worked to safely bring down about 20 people who were temporarily stranded at the top station, an attraction spokeswoman said. The Tram is scheduled to reopen at 8 a.m. Sunday, weather permitting.
Blowing sand prompted the Palm Springs Police Department to close major roads at the Whitewater Wash. Indian Canyon Drive was closed between Tramview and the Amtrak station, and Gene Autry Way was closed between Via Escuela and Interstate 10, according to Sgt. Mike Kovaleff.
The strong winds also caused a stoppage of play at 1:22 p.m. today in the Humana Challenge golf tournament at La Quinta Country Club. Damage to vendor and event tents was reported by KMIR6 News Anchor Elizabeth Beaubien. Players were being brought in off the course, and there was no word on whether play would resume today.
Blowing sand was also blamed for a crash between a bus, a truck and a sedan on Interstate 10 in North Palm Springs, which briefly trapped the car driver in the wreckage.
Dozens of fallen trees and large snapped branches covered roadways and yard throughout the Coachella Valley. Residents and businesses reported damage to property including sheds, vehicles, trees and buildings.
This site uses Facebook comments to make it easier for you to contribute. If you see a comment you would like to flag for spam or abuse, click the "x" in the upper right of it. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use.