After the lightning hit, the fire spread, "then transformers started blowing, then propane tanks" during the intense blaze at the Snow Tree Villas just off the Beech Mountain ski resort, one woman ...

Wind gusts were forecast to top 50 mph in some areas. In Pico Rivera, a tornado with wind speeds reaching 85 mph traveled about a mile through a residential area of the city.

"Higher peaks like Mount Laguna and Palomar Mountain could see more ... due to the possibility of wet snow that could make driving difficult and downed trees from gusty winds.

Following Monday's tree well tragedy at Mt. Bachelor, winter safety is at the top of experienced skiers' minds, like Dan McGarigle, the owner of Pine Mountain Sports.