Inland Northwest Faces Windy Start with Rain and Wintry Mix

The Inland Northwest faces a messy weather start with rain showers, a wintry mix, and strong winds due to a cold front. A Wind Advisory is in place, predicting gusts up to 50 mph. Improved conditions are expected by early afternoon, despite the rain continuing over the next few days with low temperatures around 32°F.

The Inland Northwest is experiencing a tumultuous start to the day due to a cold front that is bringing rain showers, a wintry mix, and strong winds. A Wind Advisory is currently active, with sustained winds anticipated between 20 to 30 mph and gusts potentially reaching up to 50 mph, particularly affecting areas such as the Palouse, Blue Mountains, and Camas Prairie. Residents are advised to secure their holiday decorations to prevent any damage from the winds.

As the front progresses, cities like Spokane and Coeur d’Alene will primarily witness rain showers, while regions to the north, near the Canadian border, may deal with a wintry mix and added snowfall in places such as the Okanogan Valley. Despite this challenging weather, the forecast suggests there will be intervals of sunshine by early afternoon. The humidity stands at 89%, and winds are currently blowing at 13 mph, contributing to a wind chill of 38°.

The weather will remain cloudy and windy throughout the day, with expectations of rain in the morning and temperatures reaching a high of 48°F. Wind gusts may occasionally exceed 40 mph. Tonight, a calmer outlook is predicted with low temperatures around 32°F. Looking ahead, a mostly cloudy forecast featuring occasional rain showers is anticipated over the next several days, with high temperatures remaining in the low to mid-40s.

The Inland Northwest is characterized by its varied climate, which can often include dramatic shifts in weather conditions. This region frequently experiences cold fronts that can bring a mixture of precipitation types, including rain, snow, and ice, particularly during the transitional seasons of late autumn and early spring. Understanding these weather patterns is crucial for residents to prepare adequately for potential disruptions, such as high winds or severe weather alerts, especially during the busy holiday season when outdoor decorations might be at risk. The National Weather Service issues warnings and advisories to alert the public of potentially hazardous conditions, emphasizing the importance of being informed and ready for changing weather.

In summary, the Inland Northwest is facing a challenging weather day due to a cold front bringing significant rain, wind, and winter weather conditions. A Wind Advisory is in effect, urging residents to take precautions with unsecured items outdoors while being prepared for possible disruptions from high winds and mixed precipitation. The weather is expected to improve as the day progresses, leading to intervals of sunshine, but continued vigilance will be necessary in the upcoming days as further rain and cold temperatures are projected.

Original Source: www.khq.com