Strong Winds Cause Concern

Fire officials respond to downed power lines on Gillette Crescent and Spruce Street in city

PHOTO: Bill Glazier | SouthPasadenan.com | South Pasadena Fire Department officials were called to the 1700 block of Gillette Crescent off Meridian Avenue just after 4 p.m.Thursday where they discovered a tree trimming crew had cut a large branch that fell on some power lines. 

Potentially damaging gusty winds kept local fire officials busy Thursday afternoon as they responded to several incidents involving downed power lines and trees.

Eric Zanteson, a division chief with the South Pasadena Fire Department, said local officials joined firefighters from Pasadena, San Marino and Alhambra following powerful winds, causing concern in the region.

PHOTO: Bill Glazier | SouthPasadenan.com | Palm trees in South Pasadena swayed on Thursday afternoon as gusty winds moved through the region.

“We anticipate the high winds will continue throughout the evening,” said Zanteson. “At this point no significant incidents have occurred, but it is beginning to impact the area and resources are actively pursuing full responses.”

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Local fire officials were called to the 1700 block of Gillette Crescent off Meridian Avenue in the city just after 4 p.m. Thursday where they discovered a tree trimming crew had cut a large branch that fell on some power lines.

Anthony Porraz, captain with the South Pasadena Fire Department, remained on scene until an Edison official arrived on scene to reconnect the line.

While the incident was not wind related, 15 minutes later firefighters arrived at a home in the 1400 block of Spruce Street where they discovered a tree had fallen on power lines in the backyard of a home. Edison crews were called to the scene to provide support.

Weather officials say the high winds are the result of a dry cold front, creating damage in the mountains, valley and coastal areas.

Forecasters say northwest winds between 20 and 30 mph will continue in Los Angeles County throughout the night, possibly increasing to 65 mph in some areas. Officials warn motorists of crosswinds that could make traveling difficult on some roadways.

PHOTO: Bill Glazier | SouthPasadenan.com | Powerful winds blew palm trees near power lines in South Pasadena on Thursday afternoon.