Spokane, Washington – Drivers of semis, RVs and other high-profile vehicles could encounter dangerous crosswinds beginning Tuesday morning as a strong cold front sweeps across eastern Washington and the Inland Northwest.
According to the National Weather Service in Spokane, wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph are expected across much of the region Tuesday. The strongest winds are forecast across portions of central Washington, the Columbia Basin and areas near Wenatchee, Ellensburg and Yakima, where peak gusts could reach 45 to 50 mph.
The wind event is expected to create blowing dust across parts of the Columbia Basin, reducing visibility on roadways including sections of Interstate 90, Interstate 82 and surrounding highways. High-profile vehicles may experience sudden crosswinds, especially on exposed stretches of road.
Communities including Spokane, Pullman, Moses Lake, Ritzville and Walla Walla could see gusts in the 35 to 45 mph range. Isolated tree damage is possible, with small limbs susceptible to breaking during stronger gusts.
The weather system will also create hazardous conditions on lakes and rivers. Boaters should expect rough water and rapidly changing conditions. The National Weather Service recommends wearing life jackets and using extra caution on area waterways.
Residents should secure outdoor furniture, trash bins and other loose objects before winds increase. Officials also urge the public to report any wildfire starts quickly, as dry and windy conditions can accelerate fire spread.
Conditions are expected to improve after the cold front passes, but windy weather will remain the primary concern through Tuesday evening.
