Washington and Oregon Under Wind Alerts as 70 MPH Gusts Threaten to Uproot Trees and Knock Out Power
PACIFIC NORTHWEST — Meteorologists are warning of powerful winds sweeping across Washington and Oregon early this week, with gusts potentially reaching 60 to 70 mph in some areas. The National Weather Service has issued a series of Wind Advisories and High Wind Watches spanning from the coast to the inland valleys and mountains, as two separate rounds of strong winds threaten to uproot trees, topple power poles, and disrupt travel across the Pacific Northwest.
Two Rounds of Damaging Winds Expected
The first wave of strong winds will arrive Sunday night into Monday, primarily affecting western Washington and northwest Oregon, including coastal areas and cities such as Seattle, Astoria, and Portland. Gusts up to 50 mph are possible along the I-5 corridor, with higher speeds likely along exposed ridges and coastal headlands.
A second and more powerful system will push through Tuesday night into Wednesday, impacting central and eastern Washington as well as southern Oregon. This round could bring gusts between 60 and 70 mph, particularly in regions around Spokane, Wenatchee, and Klamath Falls, according to forecast models.
“This setup combines an active jet stream with low-pressure systems tracking inland,” meteorologist Chris Jones explained. “That means repeated bursts of strong, damaging winds through midweek — especially in areas where the ground is already saturated.”
Saturated Soils Could Increase Risk of Falling Trees
After several days of rain, soils across the Pacific Northwest are saturated, making it easier for powerful gusts to uproot trees and down power lines. Officials warn that power outages are likely, particularly in rural and wooded regions.
“Even healthy trees can come down under these conditions,” Jones said. “When you combine wet ground with 60 mph gusts, you’re looking at a real hazard for power lines and roadways.”
Authorities are advising residents to secure outdoor items, avoid parking under large trees, and charge electronic devices ahead of possible outages.
Regional Wind Alerts Issued
As of Sunday evening, the following alerts are in effect or expected to go into effect soon:
- Western Washington & Northwest Oregon: Wind Advisories for gusts up to 50 mph Sunday night through Monday.
- Central & Eastern Washington: High Wind Watches Tuesday into Wednesday, with potential gusts up to 70 mph.
- Southern Oregon: High Wind Watches late Tuesday through Wednesday, with gusts nearing 65 mph in valleys and higher in mountain passes.
Travelers should use caution, particularly on high-profile vehicle routes such as Interstate 84, U.S. Highway 101, and mountain highways connecting eastern and western parts of both states.
Power Companies and Emergency Crews on Alert
Utility providers across the region, including Puget Sound Energy, Pacific Power, and Portland General Electric, are staging crews in anticipation of downed lines and outages. Emergency officials are asking residents to report power interruptions and downed wires promptly but to avoid touching or approaching fallen lines.
“This type of storm can turn routine commutes into dangerous situations,” Jones added. “Stay weather-aware and be ready for rapidly changing conditions.”
Calmer Conditions Expected by Midweek
Winds are expected to gradually ease late Wednesday as the storm system moves east. However, lingering breezes and unsettled weather may persist through Thursday.
Residents across Washington and Oregon are urged to stay alert for updated warnings and forecasts as the next rounds of strong winds approach. For continuous weather alerts and storm coverage, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
