Windstorms

windstorm image

View Take Winter by Storm information
This website is sponsored by King County, the City of Seattle, Puget Sound Energy, State Farm Insurance and QFC to help you get prepared and stay informed when bad weather strikes this winter.

 

Puget Sound is very vulnerable to severe windstorms. These storms may disrupt utilities, immobilize traffic, and close businesses and schools. Some memorable local windstorms were:

Easter Sunday Storm- 1997
December Wind Storm - 1995
Inauguration Day Storm - 1993
December Wind Storm - 2006

Windstorms usually occur in late winter to early spring when warm and cold air collide. Damage from fallen trees is common in Western Washington, and care must be taken to inspect trees within range of buildings for level of safety. Trees found with rot are particularly at risk and should be removed.

During a Windstorm


When a severe storm of any kind is expected, make sure your emergency supplies are in order. Be prepared for power outages.

When loss of power may occur, it is advisable to turn off computers and unplug equipment that would be damaged by power surges.
If the power goes out, follow the instructions for power outages. Use extra blankets to stay warm. Make sure you are in a well-ventilated area if using an alternate source of heat.
Listen to the radio for updates and official instructions.
Stay inside, away from windows, skylights, and glass doors.
If injuries occur, give first aid where appropriate, but DO NOT MOVE a seriously injured person unless he/she is in danger. Immediately call for help.
Use the telephone for emergency calls only.
Keep a watch on suspect trees. One person described the ground around their fallen tree as if it was "breathing." Ground movement or heavy leaning of trees should warn you to evacuate any structure in the path of a tree fall.

 

 


 

 

 

Current Emergency Information