South Bend, Washington – The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning in effect from 2:00 p.m. until midnight Saturday October 15, 2016, for the South Washington Coast and Willapa Hills. The strongest winds are expected for the beaches and headlands.
Sustained south winds of 35 to 50 mph with gusts 75 to 90 mph are forecast. South winds will rapidly increase Saturday afternoon. Trees may become entangled in power lines. Power outages are likely and travel may be difficult due to damaged trees in the roadway.
Precautionary/Preparedness Actions:
A high wind warning means a hazardous high wind event is expected or occurring. Sustained wind speeds of at least 40 mph or gusts of 58 mph or more can lead to property damage. Non-emergent calls to Pacific County Dispatch should be directed to (360) 642 or 875-9397.
It is important to be prepared for a storm of this nature. Normal communication may be interrupted; power may be out for an extended period of time. Roads may be blocked and unusable. Make sure to have plenty of food and water on hand. Make sure to have prescriptions refilled and available.
Use extreme caution with generators, charcoal and propane grills, and anything that runs on fuel that can produce carbon monoxide. Only use these devices outside in a well ventilated area.
These events are never comfortable, but, with preparation they can be overcome. Please visit the NWS website at http://www.weather.gov/portland for the most up to date weather information. This page brings up all advisories, watches, and warnings for the Southwest Washington area.