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Writer's pictureKiera Morgan

High Winds And Heavy Rain


The National Weather Service issued a high wind warning in affect all day Tuesday January 12th with Southwest winds 30 to 40 mph with gusts up to 65 mph expected along the north and central coast. The strongest winds will be found along the more exposed beaches and headlands. There will likely be a spike in the winds midday with another potentially stronger short burst of strong winds later this evening. Damaging winds may blow down trees and power lines. Scattered power outages are possible. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.



A Coastal flood and high surf advisory is also in affect through Wednesday morning. For the High Surf Advisory, large waves and hazardous surf conditions. Breakers up to 25 to 30 feet.A slow moving front with a tap into an atmospheric river of moisture will continue rain through Wednesday. The rain will be heavy at times, especially over the coastal mountains and the Cascades. Rivers and small streams are rising in response to the heavy rain, and many will rise close to or above flood levels today and Wednesday. The heavy rain may also result in urban flooding today, especially in low lying areas with poor drainage. Saturated soils may also lead to land slides.

Minor flooding up to one foot above ground level is expected during high tides especially in low lying areas near bays and sloughs and lower reaches of coastal rivers. Destructive waves may wash over beaches, jetties, and other structures unexpectedly. People can be swept off rocks and jetties and drown while observing high surf. Minor beach erosion may damage coastal properties and buildings. Higher than normal water run-up is expected on beaches and low-lying shoreline.Stay far back from the water`s edge and be alert for exceptionally high waves. Keep away from large logs on the beach. Water running up on the beach can easily lift or roll logs which can injure or kill someone caught in their path.


Basic preparedness actions can help prevent dangerous situations. This begins with having an emergency kit with necessary supplies for up to two weeks, a practiced family plan with steps for what to do in an emergency.Avoid walking through flood waters; they may be contaminated with oil, gas or raw sewage. Waters may also be hiding hazards and debris.

  • Be aware of weather conditions in your area before driving. Many flood-related incidents are caused by vehicles driven into hazardous waters.

  • Use ODOT’s Tripcheck for the latest road conditions before traveling.

  • Heavy rains reduce drivers’ visibility. When driving, turn on your lights, increase following distance and slow down.

  • Heed the advice of emergency officials regarding evacuations.

As Oregon recovers from the recent wildfires, residents living in and around wildfire areas should be aware of risks such as landslides and mudflows. People, structures and roads located below steep slopes in canyons and near the mouths of canyons may be at serious risk. Signs of landslides include:

  • Changes in landscape such as changes in water runoff, leaning trees or land movement.

  • Water in streams or creeks that suddenly turns muddy or if the amount of water flowing suddenly decreases or increases.

  • New cracks in plaster, tile or foundations.

  • Unusual sounds that might indicate moving debris, such as trees cracking or boulders knocking together.

  • Underground utility line breaks.


High winds and downed trees often cause of power outages. Take time to check your emergency kit before a storm hits. At a minimum, every home should have an emergency power outage kit that includes flashlights, battery-operated radio/clock, extra batteries, non-perishable foods, bottled water and blankets. If you experience a power outage in your home or area:

  • Keep freezers and refrigerators closed.

  • Only use generators outdoors and away from windows.

  • Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.

  • Check on your neighbors.

  • Stay away from - and don’t drive around - downed power lines and utility lines; even if they are not sparking, they could be energized and extremely dangerous.

  • Turn on your porch light. After response crews complete repairs, they patrol the area of the power failure to see if any lights are still out.


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