Wind Storm Sparks Warning for People to Stay Away From Windows

Weather officials are advising some residents in the Northwest to stay away from windows as strong winds blow through the area.

High winds are whipping through southern and southeastern Oregon and northern California. Southern winds were blowing at 35 to 45 miles per hour, with gusts up to 60 miles per hour. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued an urgent weather message early Wednesday morning warning people of the dangerous impact of the winds.

The warning is in place for the cities of Newell, Tulelake, Dorris, Macdoel, Adin, Alturas, Canby, Davis Creek, Likely, Altamont, Olene, Klamath Falls, Midland, Lakeview, New Pine Creek, Valley Falls, and Fort Rock. High winds will persist throughout the day. The warning remains in effect until 7 p.m. Pacific Standard Time on Wednesday evening.

"People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches," the warning said. "If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive."

NWS meteorologist Mike Stavish told Newsweek that the winds are caused by a strong, low-pressure system moving through the northeastern Pacific. Winds will be most severe over elevated terrain, Stavish said.

The urgent NWS message said that strong winds could damage trees and powerlines and blow away or damage unsecured objects.

"Power outages are possible. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles," the warning said.

As of 9 a.m. PST, over 3,000 people reported power outages in Douglas County in southeastern Oregon. There also were scattered power outages across California, according to a power outage map.

The NWS describes winds stronger than 46 miles per hour as capable of causing structural damage, such as to chimney covers or roofing. Once winds exceed 55 miles per hour, "considerable structural damage occurs, especially on roofs."

Winds between 55 and 63 miles per hour can uproot small trees.

Stavish said that the winds also are causing concerning surf conditions along the southern Oregon coastline, with "pretty significant" waves breaking at 25 to 35 feet. The dangerous surf conditions can catch tourists by surprise and "sweep people out to sea."

Light rain is accompanying the winds, which also are whipping across northern California.

"Much of it has moved through or is currently moving through," Stavish said of the storm, adding that the winds are not nearly as strong as last night.

"There are still some significant gusts right on the leading edge of the precipitation band in northern California," Stavish said. Gusts reached 65 miles per hour within the past hour.