Windstorm sweeps Puget Sound with potential for power outages

A rapidly developing wind storm was gearing up off the northern California coast late Tuesday afternoon and is forecast to track northward along the Pacific Northwest coast through Wednesday.

Forecast guidance concerning this storm has been varied, yet it is starting to come together for a more solid solution.

What to expect

Uncertainty with the exact track, intensity, and timing of this wind event remains. Yet, here is what is most likely to develop Wednesday.

Given the south-to-north track of this storm center, the strong south winds should kick in rather suddenly. The timing for the strong winds to begin in southwest Washington, including the coast, is expected during the late morning. The strong southerly winds will then spread north along the coast and the Puget Sound area during the early to mid-afternoon.

Wind gusts may reach 40 to 55 mph throughout much of western Washington. One silver lining with this wind event: it is expected to be a short-lived event with winds dying down during the evening.

There is still the chance the winds could be less intense with gusts in the 20 to 40 mph range, reducing the threat of power outages. Yet, it is best to be prepared for the impacts of stronger winds.

Impacts

Given the soggy soils from recent rains, these strong wind gusts will likely be enough to topple some trees, particularly those that were stressed and weakened in the December 16 strong wind storm.

Given that Wednesday is Christmas Eve, many will be on the road, taking a ferry, preparing holiday meals, and other holiday plans and activities.

Key messages

If traveling, consider taking your trip earlier in the day to avoid being out and about during the stronger winds. The strong southerly winds should rise rather suddenly when they begin – prior to that, winds may seem rather light and benign.

Also, be prepared for the potential of power outages. Have flashlights with fresh batteries on hand, and avoid using candles for lighting since they can potentially create fires.

If using a generator during a power outage, ensure it is properly ventilated outdoors to avoid the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Lastly, monitor the latest weather forecast information.

Christmas Day

Rain is expected to accompany this wind event, but amounts should be relatively light – less than a quarter inch of rain.

The odds of a White Christmas in the western Washington lowlands are zero. Sorry kids. The incoming weather system will push mountain snow levels temporarily up to as high as 6,000 feet on Wednesday before dropping below the passes again on Christmas Day. For those wanting snow on the ground for the holiday, head to the mountains.

Mountain Snow

Since Friday of last week, the snow has been piling up in the mountains. Mt. Baker and White Pass both now have over 50 inches of snow on the ground, while Crystal Mountain and Paradise have over 3 feet of new snow.

More snow is expected to accumulate into next week. Nearly all ski areas have finally opened, much to the delight of snow enthusiasts.

January into March Weather Outlook

A more typical La Niña weather pattern is reflected in the latest seasonal weather outlook released late last week by the National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center. Cooler and wetter than average weather conditions are anticipated for January into March. This trend is good news for helping to build a healthy mountain snowpack.

It also means there will be a better chance of snow in the lowlands of western Washington during January into early February.

Worried About Santa?

By the time Santa arrives overnight Wednesday, the winds and rain will have settled down.

He should easily be able to navigate from rooftop to rooftop. Just listen for those reindeer bells.

Ted Buehner is the KIRO Newsradio meteorologist. Follow him on X and Bluesky. Read more of his stories here.