Seattle, Washington – High Wind Warnings have been issued across much of western Washington for Wednesday, with damaging winds expected to impact the Puget Sound region from late morning through the evening, according to the National Weather Service in Seattle.
The warning covers a wide area including Seattle, Everett, Marysville, Lynnwood, Tacoma, Olympia, Bellingham, Mount Vernon, Port Townsend, the San Juan Islands, Island County, eastern Kitsap County, Hood Canal, and much of western Skagit, Snohomish, Whatcom, Pierce, King, Thurston, Lewis, and Mason counties.
Forecasters expect south to southeast winds of 25 to 35 mph, with widespread gusts between 50 and 60 mph. The strongest winds are anticipated between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. PST Wednesday, with some northern and coastal areas seeing peak winds from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service, winds will begin Wednesday morning as east to northeasterly before shifting abruptly to southerly by midday. This wind shift is expected to coincide with the strongest gusts. Saturated soils across western Washington will increase the risk of trees being uprooted, leading to downed power lines and widespread power outages.
Travel may be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles such as trucks, vans, and buses. Falling branches and debris are expected on roadways, particularly in forested and exposed areas.
Residents are urged to avoid wooded areas, remain indoors during peak wind periods when possible, and stay away from windows. Motorists should use caution and be prepared for sudden gusts and debris on roadways.
The National Weather Service advises closely monitoring updates as the wind event unfolds Wednesday across western Washington.
