Each fall and winter season, several low-pressure systems impact the Pacific Northwest, producing strong winds up to and sometimes surpassing 60 mph. When winds are sustained at 40-50 mph, isolated wind damage is possible. Widespread significant wind damage can occur with higher wind speeds. By acting now, you can save lives and reduce the damage caused by windstorms and other weather-related hazards.
Windy Weather Alerts
Wind Advisory: Take Action! Strong winds are occurring but are not so strong as to warrant a High Wind Warning. Objects that are outdoors should be secured and caution should be taken if driving.
High Wind Watch: Be Prepared! Sustained, strong winds are possible. Secure loose outdoor items and adjust plans as necessary so you're not caught outside.
High Wind Warning: Take Action! Sustained, strong winds with even stronger gusts are happening. Seek shelter. If you are driving, keep both hands on the wheels and slow down.
Gale Warning: Take Action! Gale Warnings are issued for locations along the water when one or both of the following conditions is expected to begin within 36 hours and is not directly associated with a tropical cyclone: sustained winds of 34 to 47 knots (39 to 55 mph) or frequent gusts (duration of two or more hours) between 34 knots and 47 knots. Make sure your vessel is secure in port.
What to do Before a Windstorm
Contact your local emergency management office or the National Weather Service to find out what types of storms are most likely to occur in your community.
Assemble a disaster supply kit.
If you have a home generator, make sure you know how to use it safely. Follow all instructions and contact the vendor, if necessary. Improper use of a generator can cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
Find out who in your area might need special assistance, such as the elderly, disabled, and non-English speaking neighbors.
Check with your veterinarian for animal care instructions in an emergency situation.
If you live on a coastal or inland shoreline, be familiar with evacuation routes.
Know what emergency plans are in place at your workplace, school and daycare center.
Conduct a home safety evaluation to find out which nearby trees could fall in windstorm.
If you have an electric garage door opener, locate the manual override.
What to do During a Windstorm
Don't panic. Take quick action to protect yourself and help others.
Turn off the stove if you're cooking when the power goes out and turn off natural gas appliances.
Never use a gas stove for heat.
Never burn charcoal indoors.
Never use a generator indoors or in a garage or carport.
If you are indoors, move away from windows or objects that could fall. Go to lower floors in multi-story homes.
If you are outdoors, move into a building. Avoid downed electric power lines, utility poles and trees.
If you are driving, pull off the road and stop away from trees. If possible, walk into a safe building. Avoid overpasses, power lines and other hazards.
Listen to your radio for emergency instructions.
What to do After a Windstorm
Check yourself and those around you for injuries.
Evacuate damaged buildings. Do not re-enter until declared safe by authorities.
Call 9-1-1 only to report a life-threatening emergency.
If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound indoors — open windows and leave the building. Turn off the gas source and call your gas company. Do not use matches, candles, open flames or electric switches indoors.
If the power goes out, keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to keep food cold for up to two days.
Provide assistance to your neighbors, especially the elderly or disabled.
Try to make contact with your out-of-area phone contact but avoid making local telephone calls.
Monitor your portable or weather radio for instructions or an official "all clear" notice. Radio stations will broadcast what to do, the location of emergency shelters, medical aid stations, and the extent of damage.
Kid's Activity Sheet "How the Three Little Pigs Could've Saved Their Homes"
Credit: takewinterbystorm.org
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