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December 03, 2007
We get weather
The Pacific Northwest doesn't get hurricanes, or at least it hasn't so far in recorded history, but when two large swirling storms barreled towards the coast yesterday and today, the National Weather Service broke out the "h" word to get our attention. Hurricane force winds of 129-miles-per-hour whipped at low lying coastal areas, and even as far inland as Portland we got some pretty severe wind and rain.
Oregon and Washington's governors have declared states of emergency. Interstate 5 between Portland and Seattle has been shut down in both directions, and may stay closed through Thursday. Amtrak has canceled trains between the two cities as well. The only way to get back and forth is by plane.
We are, fortunately, not in a low-lying area. But a number of roads in the city are closed to flooding. People have been evacuated from their homes in some places. And emergency officials are handing out sand bags at designated distribution areas.
I was late to work this morning because I couldn't believe it could really be almost 8 a.m. and still be so dark, I had an hour-long commute home because of the terrible traffic, and my hair is very frizzy. Other than that, and some soggy clothes, all this rain and wind is nothing more than an interesting diversion.
Posted by Courtney_Sherwood at December 3, 2007 07:26 PM
Comments
We had a windy day yesterday, winds up to 50 MPH, but nothing like what you had. I hope everything calms down for our trip West!
Posted by: Mom at December 4, 2007 04:58 AM
I forgot to mention the good side to all the bluster: Outdoor temperatures are up about 20 degrees, to the 60s, because of warm storm winds. I'm not complaining about that.
Posted by: Courtney at December 4, 2007 08:26 AM
I agree with you on the interesting diversion. I liked it. It was sort of a refreshing change from the usual winter drizzle. Reminded me of a good 'ol Midwestern thunderstorm
Posted by: Rian at December 4, 2007 09:08 PM