A massive tornado that ripped through communities across Western Washington overnight knocked down trees and power lines, shut down highways, knocked out power to more than half a million people, and killed two people.
By Wednesday morning, all wind warnings/advisories had been canceled except for a blizzard warning for the eastern Slope of the Cascades.
However, roads and highways across Western Washington remain closed by storm debris through Wednesday morning, with crews working to clear downed trees, power lines, and other debris from the roadway.
Sound Transit announced a delay in the start of Link light rail service Wednesday morning to allow crews extra time to inspect and remove storm debris. The 1-line and 2-line service, which usually starts at 5 am, will start at 7 am
Power outages from downed trees and power lines knocked out power to about 650,000 people, with “multiple days of outages” expected, according to Puget Sound Energy.
In Lynnwood, a 50-year-old woman was killed when a large tree fell on a homeless camper shortly after 7 p.m., according to South County Fire.
And in Bellevue, a woman was killed after a tree fell on her home while she was taking a shower, according to Bellevue Fire.
As the sun rises and the full extent of the damage comes to light, Seattle City Light reminded people to “leave behind and do not touch any downed power lines, be aware of downed trees and debris, and if you must walk, avoid all darkness. signs as all traffic is closed.”