Southern California winds trigger scattered power outages

High winds caused power outages and debris-strewn backyards Thursday as strong gusts blew through the region.

Scattered outages were reported in Monrovia, Montebello, Altadena and Arcadia, where 6,077 customers were without services, said Lauren Bartlett, a spokeswoman for Southern California Edison.

An additional 200 customers in Palm Springs reported outages, as well.

The National Weather Service issued a wind advisory through early afternoon with winds expected to reach 35 mph.

Monrovia residents began reporting wind-related problems about 10:15 a.m., Lt. Patty Newton of the Monrovia Police Department told the Pasadena Star-News.

As of 11:45 a.m., the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power said operations were normal and there were no reports of outages. However, the utility offered information about how to deal with downed power lines and what to do if the power goes out.

Southern California Edison also provided some safety tips. Battery-operated radios and flashlights should be stored in homes, as candles can be a significant fire hazard, Bartlett said.

"If a light at an intersection is down, consider it as a four-way stop," she advised.

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-- Dalina Castellanos