La Grande, Oregon – Strong south winds will ramp up before sunrise Saturday in the Grande Ronde Valley, with gusts increasing to potentially damaging levels by Saturday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, a Wind Advisory is in effect from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. PST Saturday, with sustained south winds of 30 to 35 mph and gusts up to 45 mph. A High Wind Watch follows from Saturday evening through Sunday evening, when gusts could reach 60 mph.
Travel on Interstate 84 near La Grande may become difficult.
Communities including Elgin, Union and Cove could see blowing debris and hazardous crosswinds on open roads. If stronger winds develop Sunday, downed tree limbs and scattered to widespread power outages are possible across Union County.
High-profile vehicles will be especially vulnerable.
Residents should secure loose outdoor items now and prepare for potential power disruptions this weekend.
Winds increase early Saturday, peak late Saturday night into Sunday, then gradually ease Sunday evening. The Wind Advisory remains in effect through 10 p.m. Saturday, with a High Wind Watch continuing through Sunday evening.
