High wind warning in effect for Thurston County

A high wind warning is in effect for Thurston County with gusts well over 40 miles per hour in the forecast.

The warning, which is in effect until 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 25, was issued by the National Weather Service Office (NWS) in Seattle on Monday, Feb. 24.

“Damaging winds will blow down power lines. Widespread power outages are expected,” the NWS said in issuing the warning. “Travel will be difficult, especially for (high-profile) vehicles.”

The strongest winds are expected overnight.

“People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches,” the NWS said. “If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive.”

The overnight low should be around 43 degrees with a south wind of 26 to 29 miles per hour (mph) and gusts up to 49 mph. The high on Tuesday should be near 50 degrees with mostly cloudy skies and a west, southwest wind of 16 to 23 mph and gusts as high as 40 mph.

The high wind warning came shortly after a flood watch warning was issued for the county on Monday morning. The flood watch is in effect until 1 p.m. on Tuesday.

“Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations,” the NWS said in issuing the flood watch. “Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas.”