WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — The Seattle office of the National Weather Service issued winter weather warnings this evening, December 26th due to expected overnight low temperatures and high winds.
A high wind warning is in effect until 10am tomorrow, Monday. Sustained northeasterly winds of 40 to 50mph with gusts to 60mph are expected. These are stronger winds than were previously forecast. According to the warning, “Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.”
A wind chill warning is also in effect until 10am tomorrow since these high winds, when coupled with expected low temperatures in the single digits will result in dangerously cold wind chills. According to the warning, “Wind chills as low as 20 below zero are possible. The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes. Avoid outside activities if possible. When outside, make sure you wear appropriate clothing, a hat, and gloves.”
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Click for more informationWind chill is a means of measuring the impact of cold air blowing on the surface of the skin and its potential to lower body temperature.
A wind gust of 64mph was recorded at Bellingham International Airport today at 6:53pm with sustained wind of 30mph. At that time, the temperature was reported as 10°F, resulting in a wind chill factor of -12°F.
Whatcom News readers are encouraged to stay up to date with the current weather forecast for their specific locations via the Whatcom News Weather page.