The latest warnings from the National Weather Service (NWS) in Portland on high winds, high surf and flooding.
“This is the strongest storm we have seen all year,” a NWS spokesperson said. “This is a team effort and we are running forecast models to ensure high probability predictions.”
High winds
High wind warning remains in effect from noon Monday until noon Tuesday. South wind 30-45 mph is expected with gusts up to 70 mph for coastal communities such as Lincoln City, Newport, Yachats and Florence.
South winds 40-55 mph with gusts up to 80 mph are expected on beaches and headlands. Areas impacted include but are not limited to, Roads End in Lincoln City, Gleneden Beach and Cape Foulweather.
Peak wind timing – 6 p.m. Monday and 6 a.m. Tuesday.
High Surf
A high surf warning is in effect until 6 a.m. Tuesday.
NWS is warning of a high danger of sneaker waves and urging citizens to stay off beaches and nearby rocks.
Surf will increase Monday evening with breakers of 28-38 feet.
Do not walk or climb on jetties, rocks or low coastal cliffs as it will be extremely hazardous. Stay out of the surf zone, especially this afternoon through Tuesday. Large drift logs and other floating debris could be hidden in the surf zone, and could be tossed onto the beach or rocks with little if any warning. Significant erosion of sand and dunes can be expected.
Flooding
A flood watch is in effect from late Monday night through Wednesday afternoon.
Periods of heavy rain starting Monday afternoon through Tuesday will result in sharp rises on many rivers and creeks across Northwest Oregon and Southwest Washington, and minor flooding is possible.
Rainfall totals of 3 to 6 inches are expected for the coast and the Siletz River is of particular concern to NWS.
A Flood Watch means there is a potential for flooding based on current forecasts.
You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.
Landslides and debris flows are possible during this flood event. People, structures and roads located below steep slopes, in canyons and near the mouths of canyons may be at serious risk from rapidly moving landslides.
