TIMELINE: Storm expected to arrive between 4-10pm

SEATTLE -- A major windstorm is expected to slam into the Pacific Northwest this afternoon and evening bring sustained winds of 30 to 45 mph with gusts up to 80 mph in some areas along the coast.

Q13 Chief Meteorologist Walter Kelley says everyone should prepare for gusts above 45 mph. Anyone living on the beach and north of Everett should anticipate strong gusts, some as high as 75 mph.

The strongest part of the windstorm is expected to arrive in the greater Seattle area between 6 to 8 p.m. today. The National Weather Service says the low-pressure track bringing the storm to Western Washington has shifted slightly. The latest UW model cuts back on winds speeds for the Seattle area as the track moves further west.



However, they still stress that trees can snap and fall in 50 mph winds.

A high wind warning has been issued for Washington's coast until 11 p.m. Saturday with the strongest winds between 2 to 8 p.m. Q13 Meteorologist M.J. says beach towns will have sustain winds between 45 to 55 mph with gusts to 80 mph.

Aside from the winds, the region will continue to see rain.

"Overnight winds die down but then we get scattered thunderstorms through Sunday midday which can be nasty. The ocean and Puget sound will be very stormy with some tidal overflow with the full moon," said Kelley.

Q13 News has extended our coverage tonight beginning at 4:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Q13. and 8 to 10 p.m. on JOEtv (Cable 10, Channel 22).