WESTERN ALERT WEATHER ADVISORY: Wind advisory in effect until 4 a.m.

The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning until 4 a.m. on Wednesday for western Whatcom County, western Skagit County and San Juan County. The weather service says winds 20 to 35 mph with gusts up to 50 mph can be expected. The strongest wind is expected late this afternoon and this evening.

Use care walking through the arboretum or under trees on Western's main campus as well as at Shannon Point Marine Center in Anacortes.

High winds can topple trees onto roads, vehicles and rooftops. Falling trees or large branches have been known to cause fatalities during windstorms. Downed power lines can cause power outages lasting a couple of hours or longer.