More than 16,000 customers in North Seattle are without power Tuesday afternoon as Seattle City Light crews respond to outages amid high winds battering the region, with the utility’s power outage map showing widespread impacts. The disruptions hit hardest north of downtown, affecting residential and commercial areas as gusts threaten further tree damage and line failures. Seattle power outage reports surged after the National Weather Service issued a wind advisory predicting conditions strong enough to blow unsecured objects and cause additional blackouts. No estimated restoration times posted yet for most areas.
Utility officials confirmed investigators on scene determining exact causes, likely downed lines from falling branches given saturated soils from recent rains. Seattle City Light urged customers to report power outage issues via 206-684-3000 or online, noting the map updates every five minutes excluding downtown networks. High winds forecast through Wednesday morning could prolong recovery, with NWS warning of travel difficulties for high-profile vehicles. Public safety remains priority as crews prioritize critical infrastructure.
NWS Wind Advisory Details
The National Weather Service advisory covers western Washington from 4 p.m. Tuesday to 6 a.m. Wednesday, stating “gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects” with tree limbs likely falling. Saturated grounds amplify risks, potentially leading to widespread impacts beyond initial outages. NWS highlighted power outages as primary concern alongside difficult driving conditions. Seattle public utilities activated response protocols including mutual aid readiness. Residents advised avoiding downed lines and reporting hazards immediately.
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Precautionary actions emphasize securing outdoor items and preparing for multi-hour blackouts in vulnerable spots. Similar wind events recently downed trees across Snohomish County, affecting thousands via Puget Sound Energy and local PUDs. Seattle City Light positioned crews strategically anticipating evening peaks. No injuries reported from current outages, but vigilance urged through storm passage. Alternate heating and lighting recommended for affected homes.
Restoration Efforts And Safety Tips
Seattle City Light updates the power outage map continuously, excluding underground networks in downtown, First Hill and University District. Customers track real-time status and estimated times via the interactive tool at seattle.gov/city-light/outages. Crews work around obstacles like debris-blocked roads while prioritizing hospitals and emergency services. Full restoration may extend overnight depending on wind abatement. Seattle news outlets monitor developments with live traffic cams showing closures.
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Safety protocols stress never approaching downed wires and using flashlights over candles to prevent fires. Charge devices now and maintain emergency kits through forecasted gusts. Seattle public utilities coordinate with regional partners for rapid mutual aid if loads overwhelm local capacity. Wind advisories remain active, with peaks expected evening hours. Community reports aid precise response mapping.
