A powerful storm is sweeping through Western Washington, leaving nearly 90,000 residents without power. As of 1 a.m., the majority of affected customers are in Grays Harbor, Island, Snohomish, King, and Kitsap Counties. The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a High Wind Warning, predicting damaging winds, falling trees, and potential power outages from Tuesday afternoon through early Wednesday. The warning covers a wide area, including the Puget Sound lowlands, the Olympic Peninsula, the northern Washington coast, and nearby inland communities. Forecasters anticipate southwest winds of 25 to 35 mph, with gusts reaching 50 to 55 mph in many locations, particularly during the evening and overnight hours as a powerful weather system moves through the region. Coastal communities such as Westport, Ocean Shores, La Push, and Neah Bay are also included in the warning area. The National Weather Service warns that the winds may knock down trees and power lines, leading to widespread power outages in some areas. Travel could become difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles such as trucks, buses, and RVs. In addition to the High Wind Warning, a Wind Advisory has been issued for parts of Seattle, the Eastside, San Juan County, Western Whatcom County, and Eastern Kitsap County, including Bremerton and Silverdale. While winds under an advisory are typically weaker than warning-level gusts, meteorologists say they can still blow around unsecured objects, snap tree limbs, and cause scattered power outages. The National Weather Service urges people to avoid forested areas, stay clear of trees and branches, and secure outdoor items such as garbage cans, holiday decorations, and patio furniture. Drivers are asked to use caution, especially during the evening commute and overnight hours when winds are expected to peak. Residents are also advised to remain indoors during the strongest winds, stay away from windows, and move to lower levels of their homes if possible. The weather service says conditions are expected to improve after daybreak Wednesday as winds gradually ease across Western Washington. To prepare for a power outage, it's recommended to have a plan in place. This includes having batteries and other alternative power sources, such as a portable charger or power bank, at least one of which should be pre-charged and ready to use. It's also important to have flashlights for every household member and enough non-perishable food and water. During storms like these, power is usually restored within a day, but being prepared is essential. Keep freezers and refrigerators closed, as the refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours, and a full freezer will maintain its temperature for about 48 hours, according to Ready.gov. Generators and fuel should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and attached garages. Always connect the generator to appliances with heavy-duty extension cords, and let the generator cool before refueling. Fuel spilled on hot engine parts can ignite. For reporting an outage or viewing an outage map, residents can contact the following utility companies: Puget Sound Energy (1-888-225-5773, https://www.pse.com/en/outage/outage-map), Seattle City Light (206-684-3000, https://www.seattle.gov/city-light/outages), Tanner Electric Cooperative (425-888-0623, https://www.tannerelectric.coop/outage-map), Snohomish County PUD (425-783-1001, https://outagemap.snopud.com/), Tacoma Public Utilities (253-502-8602, https://www.mytpu.org/outages-safety/power-outages/), Peninsula Light Co (877-853-1388, https://www.penlight.org/power-outages/outage-updates/), Jefferson County PUD (360-385-5800, https://ebill.jeffpud.org/maps/OutagWebMap/), and Clallam County PUD (800-542-7859, https://smarthub.clallampud.net/maps/OutageWebMap/).
