Skip to main content

Wind Events 

Coastal road with rough waves hitting, emergency vehicles on site, houses on the edge, stormy weather approaching.

Windstorm preparedness and actions for Whidbey Island

Living on Whidbey Island, it's crucial to be prepared for windstorms, as they are a common hazard. Here's a breakdown of actions you can take: 

Before a windstorm

  1. Develop a Family Disaster Plan and assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit:
    • Include flashlights, a battery-powered radio, extra batteries, a wind-up clock, and enough nonperishable food and water for several days.
    • Consider a small generator if you use electrically powered life-sustaining equipment, ensuring safe installation.
    • Have corded phones available and charge cell phones.
  2. Secure your property:
    • Anchor outdoor objects and remove dead or overhanging tree branches.
    • Learn how to manually open your electric garage door.
    • Familiarize yourself with alternative heat sources and fuel supplies.
  3. Know your resources and contacts:
    • Have your local utility's power outage reporting number handy.
    • Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes.
    • Check on neighbors who may need assistance.
    • Know emergency plans for work and school.
  4. Additional preparedness:
    • Fill vehicles with gas.
    • Trim trees and shrubs.
    • Be aware of alternative routes.
    • Review your insurance coverage. 

During a windstorm

  1. Stay indoors and safe:
    • Avoid going outside or driving.
    • Stay away from windows and go to lower floors in multi-story homes.
    • If the power goes out, turn off the stove and natural gas appliances, and never use a gas stove for heat or burn charcoal indoors.
    • Never use a generator indoors.
    • Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed.
    • Disconnect electrical heaters and appliances if power is out.
    • Conserve water and keep doors, windows, and draperies closed.
    • Be cautious with candles and ensure ventilation if using kerosene heaters or gas lanterns indoors.
    • Leave a light switch on to indicate when power is restored.
    • Avoid downed power lines.
  2. Stay informed:
    • Listen to your radio for emergency instructions.
    • Report power outages, but limit other calls to emergencies.
    • Check your fuse box or circuit breaker if you are the only one without power.
  3. If driving:
    • Pull over away from trees and seek refuge in a safe building if possible.
    • Avoid hazards like overpasses and power lines. 

After a windstorm

  1. Safety First:
    • Check for injuries and evacuate damaged buildings.
    • If you smell gas, open windows, leave the building, and call your gas company.
    • Stay away from and report downed power lines.
  2. Help others and communicate:
    • Provide assistance to neighbors.
    • Attempt to contact your out-of-area contact, but avoid making local calls.
    • Continue monitoring your radio for instructions or an "all clear". 

Being prepared is essential for staying safe during and after windstorms on Whidbey Island. Having a plan, assembling a kit, and knowing what to do can significantly impact your safety. You can find more information from the Washington State Department of Health and Island County, WA (.gov) websites.  

Informational Links: