High winds cause power outages in Western Washington

Updated  November 2, 2023 3:37pm PDT
FOX 13 Seattle
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High winds causing problems across Puget Sound

Nearly 20,000 people were without power Thursday afternoon as high winds hit the greater Seattle area. Most of the outages were in King and Kitsap counties.

SEATTLE - Nearly 20,000 people were without power Thursday afternoon as high winds hit the greater Seattle area. Most of the outages were in King and Kitsap counties.

Power has been restored for most but there were hundreds of customers still in the dark Friday morning. 

Power Outages as of 6:30 a.m. Nov. 3:

  • Seattle City Light: 378
  • Puget Sound Energy: 76
  • Snohomish County PUD: 20

FOX 13 meteorologist Brian MacMillan said heavy rain has wrapped up for now across Western Washington with drier weather in the forecast to end the work week. The rest of the day will feature a mix of clouds, sunshine and a few light showers.

Winds picked up by Thursday afternoon with gusts up to 30-40 mph across Puget Sound.

After a break through most of Friday, the next storm is will hit late Friday into early Saturday, bringing heavy rain at times. Total precipitation amounts could be over an inch again in some areas through Saturday morning with breezy winds.

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FOX 13 Meteorologist Brian MacMillan's latest forecast

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The Woodland Park Zoo said on X, formerly known as Twitter, that it was closing on Tuesday due to the high winds.

How to prepare for a storm

According to Ready.gov, if there's a chance you could experience a power outage for an extended period of time, you should take an inventory of all devices that rely on electricity.

Plan to stock up on batteries and secure other power sources such as a portable charger or power bank. It's also recommended to have a flashlight for every person living in your home.

Speaking with your medical provider before the likelihood of a power outage is also recommenced.

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Many medical devices rely on electricity. And medications, like insulin, need to be refrigerated. So, Ready.gov says to ask your doctor specific questions that pertain to any devices or medications you may need that are critical for life.

Another important topic to consider is food storage. Be sure to stock up on enough nonperishable food and water for every member of your household. And if the power goes out, keep your refrigerator and freezer closed for as long as possible.

Power outage tips from Ready.gov (FOX Weather)

Your refrigerator will keep food cold for about 4 hours, and a stocked freezer will keep foods frozen for up to 48 hours. 

The USDA recommends that you don't store food outside in the cold if your power goes out during the winter. Temperatures can vary, making food unsafe to eat. Wild animals can also carry diseases that can make you sick if you eat contaminated food.

Ready.gov advises people to install carbon monoxide detectors with a battery backup on every floor and don't under any circumstances use a generator indoors or near windows.

Don't use a gas stove or oven to heat your home, and be sure to disconnect all appliances when the power goes out. Power may return without notice, and that surge of electricity can cause damage to appliances or your home.

Who to call when your power goes out?

FOX Weather contributed to this report.

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