Eureka, CA – A powerful Pacific storm is battering the northern California coast tonight, bringing damaging winds and widespread power outage risks across Del Norte and Humboldt counties, according to the National Weather Service in Eureka.
The High Wind Warning remains in effect through 9 a.m. Wednesday for coastal areas and until 2 p.m. for interior regions, including Arcata, Eureka, Ferndale, Hoopa, Shelter Cove, and Garberville. Forecasters report south winds of 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 60 mph along the coast and up to 70 mph inland and over higher terrain.
Winds are expected to peak around midnight along the coast and persist through midday Wednesday, with particularly strong gusts along ridges and exposed headlands. Officials warn that trees and power lines may be downed, creating hazardous driving conditions and prolonged power outages.
Residents are urged to stay indoors, avoid wooded areas, and delay travel until conditions improve. Emergency management officials also caution drivers of high-profile vehicles to use extreme care on open roads, especially along U.S. Highway 101 and coastal routes.
Winds are expected to gradually subside by Wednesday evening as the front pushes inland.
