SPOKANE, Wash. – The National Weather Service has forecasted strong winds with gusts up to 70 miles per hour for early Wednesday morning, posing risks of power outages, tree damage and difficult driving conditions.
City of Spokane first responders, in collaboration with Spokane 311 and Street and Parks crews, are gearing up to address potential damage.
In addition to emphasizing the city’s preparedness, Mayor Lisa Brown also advised members of the public to make preparations of their own.
“Secure loose items, stay aware of changing conditions and prioritize safety for yourself and those around you,” Brown said.
Public safety officials urge extreme caution for anyone outside on foot or in vehicles during the high winds. The city has activated its inclement weather plan, providing additional shelter capacity for the homeless. Bed availability can be checked at sheltermespokane.org.
Residents are encouraged to call 311 to report trees blocking roadways or downed trees in parks. Trees entangled with power lines should be reported to Avista at 1-800-277-9187. Power outages can be reported to Avista online.
For emergencies involving downed power lines, call 911 and avoid approaching them. Officials instructed drivers to treat powerless intersections as four-way stops.
After the winds subside, city crews will prioritize clearing blocked arterials, followed by residential streets and general debris removal. Park teams will handle tree damage, focusing on safety hazards first. Residents should avoid parks with visible damage and exercise caution.
Garbage and recycling services may face delays depending on the storm’s impact. Post-storm, yard debris can be taken to the Waste to Energy facility at 2900 South Geiger Boulevard.
Residents needing help with private property tree debris can find licensed arborists on the city’s website.
