Ellensburg, Wash. – Powerful northwest winds are expected to roar through the Kittitas Valley Saturday afternoon, with gusts up to 60 mph likely to down tree limbs and make travel dangerous into early Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, a High Wind Warning remains in effect from 2 p.m. Saturday through 2 a.m. PDT Sunday for Ellensburg, Thorp, and surrounding parts of the valley. Sustained winds will reach 30 to 40 mph, with peak gusts between 45 and 60 mph late Saturday afternoon into the evening.
Drivers along I-90 should brace for difficult conditions, particularly for high-profile vehicles vulnerable to crosswinds. Residents are urged to secure outdoor furniture and garbage bins to prevent debris hazards. Scattered power outages are also possible due to falling branches or downed lines.
The strongest winds will arrive late Saturday and gradually weaken overnight. While no rain is expected, visibility may drop due to blowing dust in rural areas.
Warnings remain in place through 2 a.m. Sunday, and additional alerts could follow if wind speeds intensify or cause damage.
