A potent storm is rolling into northwest Washington midweek.
A high wind watch issued for the western part of the region comes paired with a winter storm watch for the higher elevations to the east, meaning depending on where you are in the county, you’ll see either a windy or white Christmas.
From Wednesday afternoon into Thursday, southeast winds from 25 to 40 mph are possible, with gusts as high as 55 mph on Thursday, according to the National Weather Service. Rain is expected in Bellingham on Christmas Day and evening.
Damaging winds could blow down trees and powerlines. Residents and businesses in western Whatcom and Skagit counties should prepare for the possibility of power outages and difficult travel, especially for high profile vehicles.
Meanwhile in the mountains, heavy snow is expected at and above 3,500 feet in elevation. From Wednesday afternoon to Friday morning, total snow accumulation between 18 inches and two feet is possible up high, with wind gusts up to 55 mph.
On X, the Washington State Department of Transportation reminded travelers who hope to cross the state’s mountain passes this week: “Unless your preferred method of transportation is flying reindeer and a sleigh, make sure you’re carrying chains or approved alternative traction devices.”
Mt. Baker Ski Area will be operating Christmas Day out of the Heather Meadows base area and will open both base areas starting Thursday through the weekend. Warm, heavy rain impacted the ski hill last week and even caused a full-day closure on Dec. 18, but the outlook is more optimistic this week, with the temperature hovering at or below freezing. As of Tuesday morning, the hill is reporting an 86-inch snow base at Pan Dome.
Julia Tellman writes about civic issues and anything else that happens to cross her desk; contact her at juliatellman@cascadiadaily.com.
