High wind update

From the County: The National Weather Service in Seattle, has issued a High Wind Warning for the entire Coastal area of Washington in effect from 3pm Wednesday to midnight tonight.  Winds will increase through the day with the highest gusts expected between 7 & 8pm tonight. There is also a High Surf Advisory in effect from 5pm Wednesday until 11am Thursday morning with waves in the 20-25 foot range which will cause localized beach erosion and rip currents. High tide is 6:34pm.

After confirming with the National Weather Service office in Seattle at 2:30pm this afternoon, the forecast looks pretty solid with winds gusting 60 to 70mph as a distinct possibility in Westport, Ocean Shores and the beach areas. At this time they are saying that strong Southerly winds of 40-45 mph are expected late this afternoon with gusts up to 70 mph. This storm is very powerful for a spring storm and is being related to intensity to some winter storms we have experienced. Areas such as Hoquiam & Aberdeen could experience gusting in the 35-45 mph range. Montesano and Elma could feel 30-35 mph wind gusts.

Grays Harbor Emergency Management is advising all citizens to be prepared for a high wind event. A High Wind Warning means that a hazardous wind event is imminent. High winds can topple trees, especially since they have full leaf canopies at this time of year. Winds can down power lines and destroy property. Stow all lawn furniture around your property. In the event you lose power, please DO NOT use portable generators indoors and never refuel near your home or structures. Be extremely careful around downed power lines.
During a High Surf Advisory, be extremely careful around the beaches, rocks and jetties as waves will run much farther than normal and will be strong enough to sweep a person from a jetty or an unwary beach walker out to sea. DO NOT TURN YOUR BACK TO THE SEA! High surf will also toss logs and debris onto beaches and rocks.