Key Takeaways
- A windstorm has caused widespread power outages and damage across western Washington, with over 245,000 people affected
- Multiple schools have reported closures or delays due to power outages and windstorm impacts
- A building in Aberdeen has partially collapsed, and trees are falling on homes and powerlines, causing hazardous conditions
- The National Weather Service has reported wind gusts of up to 112 miles per hour in the Cascades, with a blizzard warning in effect
- Utility companies are working to restore power, but the storm presents a major setback in returning to normal operations
Introduction to the Storm
A powerful windstorm has swept through western Washington, causing widespread damage and disruption to daily life. The storm has resulted in hundreds of thousands of power outages, with over 245,000 people affected across the region. The storm has also caused trees to fall on homes and powerlines, leading to hazardous conditions and further exacerbating the power outage situation. The city of Aberdeen has been particularly affected, with a building partially collapsing due to high winds, and residents have been advised to avoid the area.
Power Outages and Utility Response
The power outages have been widespread, with Puget Sound Energy reporting over 144,000 customers without power. Other utility companies, such as Grays Harbor PUD, Snohomish PUD, and Tacoma Public Utilities, have also reported significant numbers of customers without power. The utility companies have been working to restore power, but the storm has presented a major setback in returning to normal operations. The companies had already been dealing with the aftermath of devastating heavy rain and flooding in the region, and the windstorm has added to the challenges they face.
Transportation Disruptions
The storm has also caused significant disruptions to transportation in the region. US Highway 12 over White Pass has been closed due to hazardous conditions, high winds, and numerous fallen trees on the highway. Eastbound traffic has been stopped at Packwood, while westbound traffic has been stopped at the Oak Creek Feeding Station. Additionally, Interstate 5 was closed temporarily after live powerlines fell onto the highway, causing a significant delay for drivers. The road has since reopened, but drivers have been advised to exercise caution and expect delays.
School Closures and Delays
The storm has also affected schools in the region, with multiple schools reporting closures or delays due to power outages and windstorm impacts. Orting, Marysville, and South Whidbey schools have closed completely, while other districts, such as Clover Park, have reported two-hour delays and cancellations to daily programs. Parents and students have been advised to check with their school districts for the latest information on closures and delays.
Incidents and Accidents
The storm has also resulted in several incidents and accidents, including a tree falling on a tow truck that was en route to assist a motorist. The tree also hit another car traveling in the opposite direction, causing damage to both vehicles and minor injuries to the occupants. In Tacoma, a tree fell onto a house, breaking a gas line and causing a leak. The Tacoma Fire Department evacuated the residents, and Puget Sound Energy arrived to repair the power and gas lines.
Weather Conditions
The National Weather Service has reported that winds are roaring in the Cascades, with gusts reaching up to 112 miles per hour at Alpental near North Bend. A blizzard warning is in effect in the mountains, with up to 15 inches of snow expected to fall at Snoqualmie and Stevens passes. Mount Rainier and Baker could see up to 2 feet of snow, according to the weather service. The high winds and heavy snowfall are expected to continue throughout the day, causing hazardous conditions and further disruptions to daily life.
