it's gonna blow

From the National Weather Service:

San juan county-western whatcom county-western skagit county- admiralty inlet area-eastern strait of juan de fuca- western strait of juan de fuca-north coast-central coast- 950 am pst thu dec 14 2006

...high wind warning remains in effect from 2 pm this afternoon to 10 am pst friday...

A high wind warning remains in effect from 2 pm this afternoon to 10 am pst friday.

A deep low pressure system and its front will producing damaging winds as it moves across the area tonight.

Southeast winds will increase ahead of the system today...with generally windy conditions on the coast...across the northern inland waters...and near the entrances to the strait of juan de fuca. This winds will be similar to the winds that have occurred several times already this season. Stronger winds will arrive tonight...and expect widespread winds of 40 mph with gusts to 65 mph by evening...with stronger westerly winds developing around 9pm.

Behind this strong low pressure system the pressure will rise rapidly...and winds will shift to westerly. The strongest winds will arrive around 9 pm on the coast...and around midnight in the strait of juan de fuca. These winds are expected to be around 50 or 60 mph...with gusts of 80 to 90 mph likely. Whidbey island is also vulnerable to strong west winds from the strait. Winds will gradually ease during the day on friday.

The high winds will cause falling trees. Power outages are likely in some areas. Damage to structures is possible and flying debris will be a hazard. All preparations for these winds should be rushed to completion today. The strongest winds will arrive overnight tonight.

It's pouring right now and unlikely to stop any time soon. Other than a meeting this afternoon, I have nothing to do and nowhere that I need to go.

For the record, I'm loving this place, and weather like this just isn't an issue. I can say that now because the winds are supposed to be blowing the Douglas-firs away from the house. We're told we can expect to lose power, so I'll check back with all y'all sometime later. Be safe! Hold on to your hats!