Friday Windstorm: Prepare For 60 MPH Gusts, Rain

SEATTLE, WA - A "slight wobble" in the coming to Puget Sound Friday could make a big difference in how bad the winds will be. But meteorologists are still warning Seattle-area residents to prepare for the worst - sustained winds of 40 MPH, and gusts up to 60 MPH.

"The uncertainty exists inland because wind speeds will depend on the exact track of the low pressure system. Small shifts in this tract can cause significant differences in the winds we experience," the National Weather Service wrote on Twitter Thursday night.

"It might be a good idea to secure those holiday decorations this evening and be prepared for localized power outages!" NWS continued.

A high wind watch goes into effect Friday at 10 a.m. and lasts until 7 p.m. The worst winds - if they materialize - will likely swing through after the evening rush hour. If you're headed to the Bellingham area Friday, prepare for a windy afternoon, however.

Friday will also be rainy in the lowlands. The precipitation will fall as snow in the mountains at elevations above 3,000 feet, according to the National Weather Service.

The region has been soaked over the last week. We've picked up 1 to 1-1/2 inches over the last seven days, according to the NWS, mostly since Sunday night. And the rain won't let up any time soon. The long-term forecast points to rain through next week.

Patch file photo