FORKS — Forecasters expect high winds and tall waves along the Pacific coast today, with gusts reaching as high as 60 mph.
A high wind watch was issued Thursday for this morning through tonight.
The National Weather Service is predicting a possible sustained south wind from 25 mph to 40 mph. Among the affected areas are Forks, La Push, Hoquiam, Westport and Ocean Shores.
The strongest winds will likely be during the afternoon as a deep low-pressure system moves to the west of the offshore waters area, forecasters said.
A small craft advisory and gale watch off the coast also are in effect from this morning through Saturday morning.
South winds of 25 to 40 knots are expected today through Saturday morning.
Waves are expected to build to 20 to 27 feet at 14 seconds today through tonight.
The Clallam County Sheriff’s Office is urging people to stay safe along the coast today.
“These storms attract us all to watch as they can be awesomely beautiful, but being on the beach during these events is a very dangerous situation,” Undersheriff Ron Cameron said in a statement.
He said people on the West End should put garbage cans away and ensure generators are ready, wood is in and batteries for flashlights are close by.
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Reporter Jesse Major can be reached at 360-452-2345, ext. 56250, or at jmajor@peninsula dailynews.com.
