Windstorm upgraded to gusts of up to 70 mph today

The Kootenai County Sheriff's Office said the Office of Emergency Management will be activated at 2:30 p.m. to help with gathering information during today's expected windstorm.

To report downed trees and power lines, blocked roads or other nonemergency storm-related incidents, call (208) 446-2292.

The National Weather Service has upgraded the intensity and timing of the incoming wind storm. Peak winds are expected to reach the region by around 2 p.m. and are expected to subside about 8 p.m.

The storm is expected to have wind speeds of up to 50 to 60 mph with gusts of up to 70 mph.

The KCSO and other local law enforcement and fire departments are prepared for the storm and have increased staffing where available. Additionally, the 911 Center is also increasing staffing during the height of the storm.

The 911 Center is expecting to be inundated with calls for service. The Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office is asking the public to only call 911 in the event of an emergency.

"As with the storm that hit the area in January, this event is expected to cause down trees and power outages throughout the area," said a KCSO press release.

Avista has crews standing by and ready to respond.

The KCSO is asking the public to prepare for the storm by securing items that can blow away in high winds, have a flashlight or candles ready in case of a power outage, and stocking up on food and water in the event of an extended power outage.

Call (208) 446-1300 for nonemergencies.