Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and the Dakotas Face 1,500-Mile Stretch of Hurricane-Force Wind Gusts and Widespread Power Outages
UNITED STATES – A fast-moving storm system is unleashing hurricane-force wind gusts across more than 1,500 miles, impacting Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Millions across the western and north-central U.S. are under High Wind Advisories, Wind Advisories, and High Wind Watches as the system pushes east.
Over Half a Million Already Without Power in Western States
According to early Wednesday morning data, more than 500,000 customers have already lost power across the western region. These outages are expected to increase throughout the day as the severe wind field spreads eastward across the Plains.
Hurricane-Force Gusts Stretch From the Pacific Northwest to the Upper Midwest
Meteorologists report wind gusts strong enough to rival tropical systems, with the storm generating a 1,500-mile corridor of damaging winds.
Warnings currently cover large areas of:
- Washington and Oregon
- Idaho
- Montana
- Wyoming
- North Dakota
- South Dakota
The wind system is projected to intensify through the afternoon and evening as it tracks farther east.
Major Travel and Infrastructure Impacts Expected
Officials warn that the combination of extreme gusts, falling trees, and downed power lines will create dangerous travel conditions, especially in open areas across the northern Rockies and Plains.
Residents in all affected states are urged to secure outdoor items, avoid unnecessary travel, and prepare for potential extended outages.
As this powerful system continues to expand, NapervilleLocal.com will keep you updated with the latest developments and safety information to help communities stay informed during severe weather events.
I’ve lived in Naperville long enough to see how quickly our community changes — from new developments downtown to sudden shifts in our Midwest weather. Reporting on Naperville news and daily forecasts gives me the chance to keep neighbors informed about what really matters. My goal is simple: deliver clear, timely updates so you always know what’s happening in our city and what to expect from the skies above.