Washington state is struggling as large numbers of people are without power due to severe weather. According to Fox13, up to 400,000 people were without power around 4 a.m. local time Wednesday.
The areas that bore the brunt of the power outages were Clark, Pierce, Snohomish, Grays Harbor, Island, Thurston, Lewis and King counties.
Weather conditions in Washington state
The region is plagued by strong winds and rain, which also pose a major threat of flooding. The National Weather Service has issued a wind advisory for the western region of the state from 4:00 p.m. Tuesday until 6:00 a.m. Wednesday, according to mynorthwest.com.
“Gusty winds could blow around unsecured properties. Tree branches could fall and there could be several power outages,” the news release said.
Fox13 reported that the Skagit River is expected to reach major flood levels around Wednesday morning, while a blizzard warning is in effect for the Cascades and Olympic Mountains until noon.
Weather conditions will remain unsettled
Authorities have issued a blizzard warning in effect until Wednesday afternoon. The town of Pacific, Washington experienced flooding Tuesday night after a levee on the White River broke. A Level 3 “Go Now” evacuation order has been issued. However, it was not the only place that faced such a predicament.
Gov. Bob Ferguson said the state must prepare for harsh conditions that could persist for an extended period of time.
“We’re in for the long haul,” the governor said at a news conference, according to The Columbian. “If you get an order to evacuate, for God’s sake, obey it.
The governor’s office said first responders made 629 rescues and 572 assisted evacuations, according to The Columbian. The number of people affected by the floods is estimated to have reached nearly 100,000 at times. The NWS predicts that such conditions may persist in the state until the last days of the month.
A 33-year-old man was found dead on Tuesday morning after apparently driving past several warning signs. His car was discovered submerged in a flooded ditch. Authorities continue to ask residents of the state to follow the advice and instructions of the authorities.
Frequently asked questions
For what period has the NWS issued a wind advisory for the western Washington area?
The warning was in effect from 4:00 p.m. Tuesday until 6:00 a.m. Wednesday.
Which city witnessed flooding on Tuesday night?
The city of Pacific experienced flooding on Tuesday.
How many people in Washington are considered without power?
Around 400,000 people faced power cuts in the state.
