Storm Slamming Ashore
The National Weather Service has issued a severe Pacific Storm Warning for the Central Oregon Coast tonight and through tomorrow afternoon. Winds tonight are expected to average 35 to 45 mph, with occasional gusts to 75 miles an hour at the headlands, and 60 miles an hour along Central Coast beaches. A very high tide will arrive at the same time as the storm, minor flooding can be expected in low lying areas. Rain will be very heavy at times through Monday, bringing the rain total through Monday to around 4 inches.
This is the first major storm of the winter season, and the weather service reminds everyone that most trees still have all their leaves, so the winds will likely blow a few of those trees over. Be alert to where you’re parking your vehicle.
High surf will also accompany the storm, with up to 35 foot waves off shore, making for very large, and treacherous shore break. Sneaker waves will definitely be a possibility. Local authorities are urging everyone to stay well upland from the beach and rocky headlands. In Newport and Waldport, residents are urged to stay off the jettys. Swimming is strongly discouraged since heavy surf is always accompanied by dangerously strong rip currents which can sweep a person a mile out to sea and out of sight in a matter of minutes.
And for those who are headed inland for an outing in the Cascades, the weather services has a word of warning for you too. Rivers and streams will be running very high, and snow is expected to fall quite heavily in the higher elevations. Dress accordingly and use caution. Weather conditions can change minute to minute. Be prepared for it.
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