Storm’s second phase brings stronger winds

Remnants of typhoon expected to hit coast in late afternoon.

By Angelo Bruscas • October 15, 2016 1:30 am
Angelo Bruscas/North Coast News: High seas brought out a small crowd to witness the power of the recent storm at the North Jetty in Ocean Shores on Friday afternoon.
Angelo Bruscas/North Coast News: High seas brought out a small crowd to witness the power of the recent storm at the North Jetty in Ocean Shores on Friday afternoon.

Rain and gusty winds will continue through the early part of the day on Saturday, with continued warnings in place for very strong winds and high seas later in the afternoon.

Recreational razor clam diggers and anyone planning to be in the woods for recreation this weekend are advised to avoid the coast and inland forests due to the extreme danger of wind damage.

The National Weather Service in Seattle has indicated the remnants of Typhoon Songda continue to strengthen and develop as a very significant storm off of the Washington Coast. The storm is forecast to arrive early Saturday afternoon with the strongest winds between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m .Saturday afternoon and evening.

Sustained winds are forecast to impact at 40-45 mph with gusts up to 65 mph. Gusts up to 75 mph may be possible if the storm continues to track closer to the coast.

The winds will be different than the typical fall and winter storm system because they will continue to blow very strong without much let-up, according to Grays Harbor County Emergency Management. The winds have the potential to cause significant damage to homes and property. Power outages should be expected.

The storm is expected to rapidly diminish after midnight.

Residents are urged to prepare for this Storm immediately. Grays Harbor County Emergency Management and county public safety agencies are recommending residents to stay home and not go out unless they absolutely have to. Residents are urged to make sure they have adequate supplies for possible power outages; this includes drinking water and food on hand.

“Clam diggers and hunters who choose to risk the storm should know that beaches and forest areas are extremely hazardous during this type of storm and there is high risk to their safety. Risks include the possibility of flying debris, higher than normal surf conditions and sneakers waves. Hunting or recreational forest land areas are of especially high risk to personal safety due to expected high winds. Becoming entrapped or injured by falling trees could occur.”

“All citizens or visitors to Grays Harbor County during this expected weather event need to understand that because of hazardous weather and safety concerns, public safety response may be delayed to certain areas of the county or recreational areas,” according to the latest Emergency Management bulletin Saturday morning.

“Please exercise caution when using generators or barbecues, do not use them inside a residence. Ensure that these devices are in well ventilated areas. The risk from carbon monoxide poisoning if operated in a confined spaces is great and may result in death.”

Grays Harbor County Emergency Management urges people to not call 911 unless you are experiencing a true emergency.

Angelo Bruscas/North Coast News: This area off the North Jetty is where erosion continues to be a concern for ocean-view homes and condos overlooking the ocean.

Angelo Bruscas/North Coast News: This area off the North Jetty is where erosion continues to be a concern for ocean-view homes and condos overlooking the ocean.