The National Weather Service issued a wind advisory for portions of north central Idaho and east Washington with gusts between 50 and 60 mph expected on the Palouse.
The high wind warning will remain in effect until 4 p.m. as gusts taper off into the afternoon. The advisory said damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines in affected areas, making travel more difficult. As a precaution, people should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees.
A Vandal Alert issued today warns University of Idaho students of heavy winds on campus as well as multiple downed trees and power lines.
“Exercise caution and keep clear of power lines,” the alert stated.
A second Vandal Alert notified students based in Coeur d’Alene of the Harbor Center’s closure, due to a power outage. In-person classes at that location have been cancelled and will continue online, according to UI Director of Communications Jodi Walker. The Moscow campus will remain open.
On Tuesday, the weather service issued a flood advisory affecting eastern Washington and the Idaho panhandle. Rises in streams and creeks, including Paradise Creek, are expected due to increased precipitation and snowmelt, according to the advisory.
“Rain and melting snow will also heighten the potential for rockslides in steep terrain,” the advisory stated. “Minor flooding is possible in low lying areas and fields.”
A brief break in the weather is expected Thursday through Friday, with the next weather system moving in Sunday, the advisory stated.
Snow earlier this week caused a variety of issues for travelers at mountain pass levels and resulted in several road closures. AccuWeather Meteorologist Ryan Adamson said dry weather is forecast to envelop the northwest by Wednesday night.
“High pressure will build into the northwestern U.S. on Thursday, offering a day free of precipitation for the entire region,” Adamson said.
Angela Palermo can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @apalermotweets.