Christmas Eve Windstorm Threatens Oregon and SW Washington

Key Takeaways

• A windstorm with gusts of up to 70 mph is expected to hit western Oregon and Southwest Washington on Christmas Eve, potentially causing power outages and downing trees.
• Residents are advised to take precautions such as securing outdoor decorations and garbage bins, and preparing for potential power outages.
• Two winter storms are expected to bring snow and rain to Southern Oregon and Northern California, affecting holiday travel.
• The National Weather Service and electric utilities are urging people to prepare for the possibility of downed power lines and to take extra precautions when traveling.

Introduction to the Windstorm
A car was crushed by a fallen tree on Northeast 24th Avenue in Portland, a stark reminder of the potential dangers of windstorms. Forecasters are warning of a windstorm that could hit western Oregon and Southwest Washington on Christmas Eve, with gusts reaching up to 70 mph. The National Weather Service is closely monitoring the situation, but says it’s still too early to predict the exact strength of the winds. Despite the uncertainty, residents are being advised to take precautions to secure outdoor decorations, garbage bins, and prepare for potential power outages.

Prepare for the Worst
Hannah Chandler-Cooley, lead meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Portland, is urging residents to get ready for the windstorm. "People should take precautions such as securing any outdoor decorations, garbage bins, and be prepared for the potential for some localized power outages or tree damage," she said. The warning comes as the region is still reeling from heavy rains that pummeled the area last week, leaving soils across the state saturated. This, combined with gusty winds, could knock over weakened trees and branches, causing further damage.

Impact on Holiday Travel
Two winter storms are expected to bring snow and rain to Southern Oregon and Northern California, just in time for holiday travel. California’s Siskiyou County will bear the brunt of the storms, particularly at higher elevations, starting Tuesday and lasting through Friday. Heavy snow is expected on mountain passes over 4,500 feet of elevation, and some snow could fall on Interstate 5 in the area around California’s Mount Shasta on Friday as the snow level drops. The National Weather Service is warning holiday travelers to take caution, as high winds could make driving dangerous, especially for high-profile vehicles.

Power Outages and Safety Precautions
Portland General Electric is urging residents to prepare an outage plan and get emergency kits ready in case the power goes out. The utility company is also warning people of potential weather hazards like downed power lines. "You should always assume they are alive," said John Farmer, a spokesperson with PGE. "You should never go near them. Don’t touch them. Don’t use a stick or a branch to move. Just stay away." The Oregon Department of Transportation is also preparing for the potential storm, with crews still working to clear up debris left behind by last week’s storms. Mindy McCartt, a spokesperson with the Oregon Department of Transportation, said, "Crews will continue cleanup from the previous storms while also preparing and staffing up for the next potential event."

Final Preparations
As the region prepares for the potential windstorm, residents are advised to take extra precautions when traveling. The National Weather Service and electric utilities are urging people to be prepared for the possibility of downed power lines and to take necessary safety precautions. With the storm expected to hit on Christmas Eve, it’s essential for residents to be prepared and take necessary steps to ensure their safety. By taking precautions and staying informed, residents can minimize the impact of the windstorm and stay safe during the holiday season.