Winds at 42 mph trigger alarms, but homes safe

Police and fire departments, along with lifeguards, were prepared for what the heavy Santa Ana winds might bring Tuesday, but Christmas seemed to go off without a hitch for most of the area.

Winds stemming from the north east reached 42 mph on the coast, according to Newport Beach lifeguards. An anticipated high tide of 7.5 feet was depleted by the wind direction, and winds slowed in the afternoon, leaving behind them a solid day for surfing.

Police and fire departments also had a relatively calm day. Despite high winds, hazards and accidents were kept to a minimum and the majority of calls were home burglar alarms set off by the winds pressing against windows. More than 40 burglar alarms were reported to Newport Beach Police from early morning until the afternoon.

— Daniel Tedford