Storms Bring Gustnado and Wind Damage to California
National Weather Service officials confirm a gustnado in Victorville and straight-line winds at a local golf course.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Severe Weather
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An El Nino-fueled storm system moved through Southern California on Thursday, resulting in a gustnado in Victorville and significant wind damage at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course. No injuries were reported following the severe weather event.
Why it matters
The severe weather, which included various flood advisories and thunderstorm warnings, underscores the volatile impact of current storm systems on the region. Understanding these distinct weather phenomena helps authorities distinguish between tornadic activity and straight-line wind incidents.
Wind gusts in the area reached speeds of 36 mph during the storm event. Investigators determined that the damage at San Clemente Municipal Golf Course was caused by straight-line winds rather than a tornado.
The players
National Weather Service
This federal agency is responsible for providing weather forecasts, warnings, and hazardous weather observations to the public.
The details
A gustnado was spotted by a motorist near US Route 395 and Dos Palmas Road in Victorville as the storm front moved through. Simultaneously, cleanup crews addressed debris and fallen trees caused by straight-line winds at the San Clemente Municipal Golf Course.
Timeline
Wednesday night: Damage occurred at San Clemente Municipal Golf Course.
Thursday: A gustnado was spotted in Victorville and cleanup occurred at the golf course.
Thursday evening: The wet weather began moving out of the region.
Friday: Drier conditions are expected across the state.
Seasonal Patterns
This event aligns with the National Weather Service's severe weather warning protocols used to classify wind damage incidents. The storm activity reflects the atmospheric volatility typical of El Nino-influenced patterns in Southern California.
Residents should continue to monitor weather updates as residual impacts from the storm move out of the area. Local authorities advise caution when traveling through areas where trees or debris may still be present following the high winds.
The takeaway
Severe storms can produce localized phenomena like gustnadoes that often mimic more dangerous tornadic activity. Homeowners and local property managers should prepare for potential high-wind damage by securing loose outdoor objects ahead of announced weather warnings.
Further reading
For more information on current atmospheric conditions, visit our Severe Weather section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KTLA 5.
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