The National Weather Service issued a high wind warning and dust advisory for the Palouse in effect until 5 a.m. Monday.
Winds are expected to be 25-40 mph with the strongest gusts reaching 50-65 mph Sunday evening. According to the warning, a brief local burst of 70 mph is possible due to a “vigorous cold front” bringing damaging winds into the area.
The weather service expects the gusts to blow down trees and power lines, causing widespread power outages. The warning states traveling will be difficult, particularly for high-profile vehicles like trucks and vans.
“People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches,” the warning stated. “If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive.”
Portions of Interstate 90 in Eastern Washington were shut down by the Department of Transportation due to dust storms decreasing visibility to hazardous levels, causing “dangerous, life-threatening travel.”
The warning recommends not traveling if possible and states pulling off the highway with no lights on is the safest way to weather out the storm if travelers get caught in it.
During a power outage, Avista recommends turning off appliances that were on before loss of power and unplugging electronics. To help Avista crews know which homes have power, they recommend leaving a porch light on as a signal and calling to let crews know about bent or broken masts, hanging wires and broken meters.
Anteia McCollum can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @antxiam5