Spokane, Washington – Sudden wind gusts up to 45 mph could hit parts of eastern Washington and north Idaho within hours as scattered thunderstorms develop late Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Spokane, the highest risk area includes southeast Washington and the Idaho Panhandle, where showers will increase through the afternoon and evening. While storms are expected to remain isolated, any stronger cell could produce lightning and gusty outflow winds between 35 and 45 mph.
Communities from Pullman and Walla Walla to Coeur d’Alene may see brief downpours and rapidly changing conditions, especially during the evening commute. Visibility could drop quickly in heavier showers, and loose outdoor items may be blown around by sudden wind bursts.
Wind speeds are expected to remain elevated overnight as rain continues, with additional gusts possible into early Thursday. Drivers, especially on exposed highways like U.S. 195 and I-90, should prepare for sudden crosswinds.
Residents are urged to secure outdoor objects and stay weather-aware through tonight as conditions remain unsettled into Thursday.
