King and Pierce counties prepare for wind storm
Safety tips for residents
The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning that will be in effect from 2 p.m. today until 10 a.m. tomorrow morning. Southeast winds will increase ahead of the system today, rising to sustained winds of 35 to 45 miles per hour with gusts up to 65. Damaging winds will become more widespread tonight as the front moves through the interior of Western Washington, continuing early Friday and then easing through the day.
The National Weather Service held a conference call with all Western Washington emergency managers and power/utility providers late yesterday, advising that these winds will cause falling trees, bring down power lines and potentially damage some structures.
The King and Pierce County offices of emergency management advise everyone to use extreme caution during this afternoon’s and tomorrow morning’s commute and offer the following steps to prepare for the storm:
- Fill your vehicle with gas and have plenty of gas to operate generators. Please visit www.metrokc.gov/prepare for a list of generator safety tips.
- Make sure you have enough supplies including water, food, flashlights, warm clothing, blankets, a battery-operated radio, extra batteries, medications, food/water for your pets, and any special needs items.
- Contact family members and advise them to take precautions and have an emergency communications plan.
- If the winds aren’t too strong by the time you get home, take a few moments to secure any items that may blow away or become damaged by the winds.
- If the winds are severe, please take shelter in your home and don’t forget your pets! Please stay off the roads if at all possible.
- Do not, under any circumstances, go near downed power lines. Be aware that the ground near downed power lines may also be electrified.
- Do not, use outdoor cooking equipment (BBQs) inside the home and do not leave children and/or pets unattended with propane heaters, candles, or other open flames.
- Only call 9-1-1 to report a life threatening emergency.