Most of the more than 1,000 customers in several Coachella Valley communities who had their power knocked out by gusty winds that sent trees and 18 power poles to the ground in Indio were back online Monday evening.
A total of 1,012 customers in Indio, La Quinta, Mecca, Thermal and Bermuda Dunes lost power between 4:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. due to heavy winds, according to the Imperial Irrigation District.
Most affected customers had their power restored by 9:30 p.m., if not earlier, according to a statement from the district.
“We fully expect total restoration later tonight,” said Marilyn Del Bosque Gilbert, the district’s energy manager. “We remain committed to restoring power service as quickly as we can and appreciate the dedication of our crews and the patience and understanding of our customers.”
Some 230 customers in rural Imperial County were also affected and restoration time could take up to 48 hours in some areas, the statement said.
The Indio Police Department reported poles were down on Indio Boulevard at Madison Street, closing the roadway in both directions. Traffic was also affected on Highway 111 west of Las Palmas Road due to downed trees strewn about the corridor, police said.
Police did not specify when the roadways would be clear.
About 10 p.m., the department said Indio Boulevard at Madison Street and Monroe Street between Avenues 48 and 49 were closed as crews worked on downed power poles and closures will remain until further notice.
Residents at Quail Lakes were still able to access their community, police said.
A windblown dust advisory was in place in the San Gorgonio Pass and the Coachella Valley Monday due to the strong gusts. The National Weather Service said the westerly gusts could reach 70 mph in the mountains and deserts.
Forecasters said winds will begin to die down by Monday night and should subside by Tuesday.