Seattle, WA — Western Washington is bracing for high winds and heavy rainfall starting Tuesday, with conditions expected to intensify by Wednesday. Residents in Seattle, Bellevue, and along the Interstate 5 corridor are advised to secure loose outdoor items and prepare for possible power outages as gusts reach up to 45 mph. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Wind Advisory from 4 p.m. Tuesday to 4 a.m. Wednesday, affecting much of the Puget Sound region.
According to the NWS, winds will range between 20 to 30 mph, with gusts potentially reaching 45 mph, particularly along the coast and northern interior. Heavy rain will accompany the strong winds, leading to flooding concerns for rivers, particularly the Skokomish River, where water levels are expected to rise. Travel on major routes, including I-5, could be hazardous due to poor visibility and wet conditions.
The storm will bring several days of unsettled weather to the region. Wednesday will see highs around 55 degrees with steady rain throughout the day, followed by continued showers on Thursday. Friday and Saturday may offer brief respite with lower rain chances, though conditions remain cool, with highs near 48-53 degrees through the weekend.
Residents are urged to avoid parking under large trees and to use caution when driving, especially if operating high-profile vehicles. Those living in flood-prone areas should monitor local reports and be prepared for rapid water level changes. Local utility companies are on standby to address potential outages from wind-related damage.