The city of Seattle’s emergency operations center activated this afternoon in preparation for the first windstorm of the season and is responding to scattered power outages throughout the area related to high winds and upcoming severe weather.

“We opened the emergency operations center this afternoon to ensure the city is prepared to meet the needs of its citizens during the wind storm,” said Mayor Greg Nickels. “Seattle City Light repair crews are responding to power outages and utility crews are prepared to respond to street flooding.”

Seattle officials advise everyone to use caution during the afternoon commute. The strongest winds are forecast to occur until 8 p.m., with the storm expected to wind down after 11 p.m.

Safety tips for high winds and power outages

* Stay away from downed power lines. Don’t attempt to remove downed trees that are touching power lines. Be aware that the ground near downed power lines may also be electrified. To report an outage or downed power line, call City Light’s outage hotline at 206-684-3000.

* Falling leaves clog storm drains. Ensure storm drains near your home are clear of leaves and other debris to prevent flooding. To report clogged storm drains call, Seattle Public Utilities at 206-386-1800.

* To report blocked or flooded roadways, call Seattle Department of Transportation at 206-386-1218. Traffic signal problems, call 386-1206.

* Avoid putting your trash and recycling containers out tonight - put them out in the morning. To report a missing trash can, call Seattle Public Utilities customer service line at 206-684-3000.

* To avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, do not run a generator or use a charcoal burning barbecue indoors.

* Be prepared. Assemble an emergency kit with supplies that will last for three days. The kit should include basics like a three-day supply of water and nonperishable food for everyone in the household, a hand-operated flashlight, a hand-crank radio and a space blanket. - Source: City of Seattle