Power outages and other damage likely from strong storm headed for Whatcom County
Power outages and other damage is possible from a cold and fierce storm expected to hit Whatcom County on Friday night and Saturday, the National Weather Service said.
A high wind warning was issued early Friday for western Whatcom County and the city of Bellingham.
Residents were urged to stay inside and to avoid forests where falling tree limbs could cause injury.
Homes are safest on their lower levels, the weather service said.
Sustained northeast winds of 25 to 45 mph are forecast, with gusts to 60 mph, starting 6 p.m. Friday, March 13, and lasting until noon, Saturday, March 14.
“Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines,” the weather service said online. “Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.”
Strongest winds are expected near the Canadian border.
A blast of arctic air will drop temperatures into the 20s overnight as unseasonably cold weather continues.
Highs Saturday will be in the upper 30s under partly sunny skies.
Sunday will be sunny with a high near 50.
