Deadly Windstorm Hits the Northwest

http://www.weather.com/news/news/destructive-northwest-windstorm



Powerful winds of over 100 mph caused extensive damage to trees and buildings in the Pacific Northwest, leaving at least three dead and more than 1 million residents without power on Tuesday.
The three deaths in Washington were caused by fallen trees: two from a tree falling on their vehicles and one from a collision. State officials issued a "shelter in place" bulletin Tuesday afternoon for the town of Spokane. Residents were advised to remain in sheltered locations, away from the extreme winds and flying debris.

Heavy rains from the windstorm and additional rain from a strong storm last week caused rivers to flood in Washington, the worst being north and northeast of Seattle. The Seattle Times reported that two mudslides also occurred, closing the North Cascades Highway near Newhalem and another blocking access to Diablo.
Other states affected by the windstorm include Oregon, Idaho and Montana. High winds of 86 mph left more than 25,000 households without power in the Portland area on Tuesday, and the winds also forced the closure of portions of Interstate 84. In Idaho, more than 44,000 customers were reportedly without power early Wednesday. Over 73,000 customers were without power in British Columbia Tuesday night, according to utility provider BC Hydro.