High Wind — Eastern Strait of Juan De Fuca, Washington

2021-09-17 · Eastern Strait of Juan De Fuca, Washington

Event narrative

Strong winds affected the Eastern Strait of Juan de Fuca for much of the day on Friday 9/17. Downed trees were reported across much of Jefferson County, eventually prompting an upgrade from a Wind Advisory to a High Warning Warning. The following reports were gathered:

-Tree limbs were reported to be downed onto wires at Hastings and Howard in Port Townsend.

-The WSDOT ferry route from Port Townsend/Coupeville service was suspended due to strong winds and rough seas.

-A low hanging power line had US 101 at MP 276 near Old Gardiner Road reduced to one lane with alternating traffic. Old Gardiner Road was also blocked.

-Trees down on US 101 both directions at MP 167.59 near Lower Hoh Rd beginning at 1:16 pm on Sept. 17. Traffic was alternated through the area, with the area cleared an hour later.

Wider weather episode

A strong frontal system passed across Western Washington in the middle of September, bringing heavy rain, high elevation snowfall, gusty winds, and a few thunderstorms to the area. This was the first notable frontal system in several months, prompting the issuance of several weather headlines. The active weather was most pronounced across the area Friday 9/17 through Saturday 9/18, with wind of highest impact, particularly the Admiralty Inlet area, Jefferson County, and Western Skagit County.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 986925. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.