Wind Advisory Extended Through Sunday Morning as Pacific Low Fuels 45 mph Gusts
Updated (3 articles)
Advisory Duration and Geographic Scope The National Weather Service has extended the wind advisory until 10 a.m. Sunday, covering the foothills of Snohomish, King, and Pierce counties [1]. East‑to‑southeast winds are expected to maintain speeds of 15‑25 mph with gusts reaching 45 mph across these valleys [1]. The advisory warns of heightened hazards for outdoor activities, especially near exposed ridgelines and coastal areas [1].
Pacific Low‑Pressure System Drives Conditions broad low‑pressure area over the Pacific continues to funnel moisture and breezy airflow into western Washington throughout the weekend [1]. This system is responsible for the sustained wind field and will keep the region under unsettled weather through the end of February [1]. Meteorologists note that the low’s position south of the state will maintain the wind direction from east to southeast [1].
Expected Gusts and Immediate Impacts Saturday night into early Sunday, gusts are projected in the 30‑40 mph range, with isolated peaks up to 45 mph along the coast and the Strait of Juan de Fuca [1]. These stronger bursts increase the risk of downed branches, power outages, and travel disruptions on exposed roadways [1]. Residents are advised to secure loose objects and exercise caution when driving, especially on high‑elevation routes [1].
Precipitation, Cloud Cover, and Snow Levels Light rain and overcast skies will persist through Sunday, while heavier rain pockets develop along the coastline [1]. Mountain snow is forecast to increase later in the day, and falling snow levels Sunday evening into Monday morning could impede pass travel [1]. The combination of moisture and wind raises concerns for reduced visibility and icy conditions on higher elevations [1].
Outlook for Early Next Week Monday will bring spotty showers, and a mid‑week disturbance will remain south of Washington, keeping the pattern unsettled [1]. A subsequent northern cold system may lower snow levels further and sustain cool, wet conditions through the end of February [1]. Authorities recommend continued monitoring of forecasts for any extension of wind advisories or additional travel advisories [1].
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Timeline
Dec 16, 2025 – The National Weather Service issues a High Wind Warning for western Washington from 4 p.m. Tuesday to Wednesday morning, warning that saturated soils from recent rains raise the risk of falling trees and power outages, while lowland winds of 25‑35 mph with 40‑50 mph gusts and coastal gusts of 50‑60 mph threaten travel and high‑profile vehicles [3].
Dec 17, 2025 (overnight) – The NWS records a 112 mph wind gust at Alpental Ski Area early Wednesday, the strongest overnight reading, with dozens of stations reporting 50 mph+ gusts, White Pass hitting 99 mph, Snoqualmie Pass 82 mph, and coastal sites such as Whidbey Island 71 mph; thousands lose power, and forecasters project winds to ease later Wednesday [2].
Feb 22, 2026 – A wind advisory remains in effect until 10 a.m. Sunday for the Snohomish, King and Pierce foothills, as an expansive Pacific low‑pressure system drives east‑to‑southeast winds of 15‑25 mph with gusts up to 45 mph, blustery Saturday night into Sunday with 30‑40 mph gusts, light rain, gray skies and increasing mountain snow, while dropping snow levels Sunday night into Monday may impede mountain‑pass travel [1].
Feb 22‑23, 2026 (forecast) – The unsettled pattern continues into the week with cooler, wet conditions; Monday brings spotty showers, a mid‑week disturbance stays south of Washington, and a later northern cold system is expected to lower snow levels and keep temperatures cool through the end of February [1].