A powerful burst of wind is set to sweep across the Inland Northwest overnight, as the National Weather Service in Spokane issues a Wind Advisory from 9 p.m. Saturday through 9 a.m. Sunday. Forecasters warn that gusts could reach up to 50 mph, with sustained south to southwest winds of 20 to 30 mph during the strongest periods.
The advisory spans much of eastern Washington and north Idaho, affecting communities including Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, Moses Lake, Pullman, Ritzville, Ephrata, and Colville. Mountain corridors will also be impacted, particularly Lookout Pass and Fourth of July Pass, where exposed terrain can amplify wind speeds.
Travel may be hazardous, especially for high-profile vehicles such as trucks, RVs, and buses. Strong crosswinds and sudden gusts can make steering difficult on open highways and ridgelines. Drivers heading out late Saturday or in the early hours of Sunday should slow down, keep both hands on the wheel, and allow extra space between vehicles.
Residents are encouraged to secure or bring inside items that could be blown around—such as patio furniture, trash bins, and decorations. The NWS also notes the potential for tree limb breakage and isolated power outages due to the stronger gusts.
Winds are expected to ramp up late Saturday evening, peak overnight, and then gradually ease by mid-morning Sunday. If you’re traveling or spending time outdoors, stay alert to changing conditions and local updates.
Bottom line: Plan for a noisy, windy night across the region, take simple precautions to protect property, and use extra caution on the roads until winds diminish Sunday morning.
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