Forecasters expect high winds in series of storms

Forecasters say a strong windstorm headed our way could topple large trees and cause problems for drivers during the evening commute, especially from Seattle northward.

A storm watch is in effect from 4 p.m. Thursday through early Friday morning from Olympia to Bellingham.

Widespread power outages are likely, given the saturated soils from recent heavy rain, according to the National Weather Service.

Forecasters say high winds will first be felt in Thurston, Pierce, and Lewis counties, and then move north to the Puget Sound and northern interior around 6 p.m.

Southwest winds will reach 30 to 40 mph with gusts to 60 mph Thursday evening. Winds will diminish by daybreak Friday. Forecasters say the most vulnerable areas are along shorelines and locations exposed to southerly wind.

The Washington State Department of Transportation is keeping a close eye on area bridges. The 520 bridge will close if 50 mph gusts are sustained for 15 minutes. WSDOT measured a gust of 43 mph around 10:45 a.m. on Wednesday.

Forecasters say it could be a major windstorm, but not as powerful as the 2006 Hanukkah eve storm that knocked out power for hundreds of thousands of utility customers.

Puget Sound Energy reports about 1,500 customers are still without power after Wednesday’s wind.

Cooler, drier weather is expected for the weekend.