Cooler, Breezy Conditions with Santa Ana Winds Arrive Midweek for the Coachella Valley Area

High clouds are moving in over the Coachella Valley today with mild, dry conditions and temperatures around 80°F. Expect gusty Santa Ana winds from the north and northeast beginning Wednesday, mainly affecting surrounding areas like the Inland Empire, with temperatures dropping to the low-to-mid 70s by afternoon. High wind watches are in effect for neighboring regions, and red flag warnings have been issued due to low humidity. Overnight lows will dip into the 40s for the high desert areas by midweek. Rafael, a tropical storm, is projected to head northwest, nearing the Gulf Coast by Sunday.