Massive Windstorm Hits Western Washington, Leaving Hundreds of Thousands Without Power
Western Washington was rocked by a severe windstorm on Tuesday night, causing widespread damage and desperation for safety as gusts topped out at an astonishing 74 mph in the lowlands. The storm, a part of a rapidly intensifying system known as a bomb cyclone, left more than 640,000 customers without power at its peak. Tragically, the storm claimed at least two lives, one in Lynnwood at a homeless encampment and another in Bellevue when a tree fell on a house.
Power Outages and Restoration Efforts
As of Wednesday evening, approximately 378,000 customers were still without power. An overwhelming number of outages came from Puget Sound Energy, affecting around 321,000 customers, while Seattle City Light and Snohomish County Public Utility District reported around 19,800 and 37,000 outages, respectively. The severity of the damage has left crews working tirelessly, with estimates suggesting that it might take several days to restore electricity to everyone by Saturday.
Impact on Transportation
The storm’s aftermath also created challenges for local travel. Interstate 90 near Snoqualmie Pass was temporarily blocked by fallen trees and a jackknifed semi-truck. Flights at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport faced delays and reroutes as well. Warnings urged drivers to exercise caution at dark intersections, treating them as all-way stops.
Community Response
In terms of community outreach, many local places opened as temporary shelters. Redmond City Hall established a makeshift warming and charging station, aiding around 60 individuals who sought refuge. Nearby facilities, like the Redmond Senior and Community Center, also accommodated displaced residents.
Schools and Local Businesses Affected
Schools were not spared by this storm. Multiple districts announced closures for Wednesday and extending into Thursday, including Issaquah, Renton, Bellevue, and Shoreline. For local businesses, the storm has been financially devastating, particularly for Zylberschtein’s deli in North Seattle, which reported losses totaling around $20,000.
Emergency Services and Safety Precautions
Emergency services have been busy responding to incidents caused by the storm. Reports noted five people treated for storm-related injuries at local hospitals, while the regional emergency agencies cautioned residents against using indoor heating methods that could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Generators should only be operated outside to avoid dangerous buildup.
Animal Welfare
The crisis extended to animals as well, with reports of pets going missing during the high winds. Many residents took to social media to locate lost pets, where some shelters stated they had not received an upsurge in found animals, likely due to power outages affecting reporting capabilities.
Future Weather Forecasts
Looking ahead, weather experts have warned of a second storm moving into the area possibly on Thursday or Friday. Preparations are underway as officials urge residents to remain vigilant, especially with the ongoing power restoration efforts and road clearances.
Conclusion
The effects of this windstorm serve as a stark reminder of nature’s unpredictable power. Many Western Washington residents grapple with the fallout as they seek heat, comfort, and safety. Community cooperation and support are vital as the region moves forward, hoping for a quick return to normalcy.
