At Least 5 States Were Issued Wind Advisories Today

At least five states across the United States were issued wind advisories on Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service.

Why It Matters

High winds pose significant risks to residents and travelers throughout the affected regions. The NWS warns that the strongest gusts may cause power outages, tree damage, and difficult driving conditions, especially for high-profile vehicles. Additionally, with winter weather still present, blowing and drifting snow could reduce visibility, compounding travel hazards.

The combination of strong winds and cold temperatures may also create concerns for those relying on heating sources that could be disrupted by power outages. Officials urge residents to prepare for possible outages and secure loose outdoor objects.

Snow covers the ground in the Constitution Gardens on the National Mall on January 12, 2025, in Washington, D.C Samuel Corum/Getty Images

What To Know

Strong winds sweeping across parts of the United States led the NWS to issue wind advisories covering at least five states on Tuesday.

Residents in areas ranging from West Virginia to Wisconsin were advised to prepare for gusts reaching up to 55 mph, with potential disruptions to power and travel.

The advisories highlight the impact of a cold front moving through the eastern and central U.S., creating hazardous conditions.

The advisories issued by NWS offices across the affected regions outline the duration and intensity of the winds.

West Virginia

NWS in Pittsburgh has issued a High Wind Warning for West Virginia's Eastern Tucker County, cautioning residents about damaging winds that could lead to widespread power outages and hazardous travel conditions.

The warning, in effect from 4:43 a.m. EST to 3:00 p.m. EST on January 28, 2025, forecasts wind gusts of up to 60 mph.

Maryland

In Washington, D.C., the NWS issued a wind advisory for portions of DC, central, north central, northeast, and northern Maryland. The warning is in effect from 11 am EST Tuesday to 6 p.m. EST Wednesday with winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 50 mph expected.

Illinois

The NWS issued a Special Weather Statement along with a wind advisory warning that wind gusts between 25 and 35 mph, peaking at 55 mph, are expected to create dangerous fire risk conditions. The warning was issued for northern Illinois, particularly areas north of Interstate 80, warning of heightened fire danger due to strong southwest winds, low humidity, and unseasonably mild temperatures. Additionally, temperatures above normal for this time of year and low relative humidity contribute to the heightened risk.

The wind advisory will remain in effect through Wednesday.

Pennsylvania

The NWS issued a wind advisory on Tuesday at areas of Pennsylvania including Western Chester, Eastern Chester, Western Montgomery, Eastern Montgomery, Upper Bucks and Lower Bucks as well as Carbon, Monroe, Berks, Lehigh, Northampton, Delaware and Philadelphia counties. The warning is in effect until Wednesday at 6 p.m. EST as west winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 50 mph are expected.

Wisconsin

The NWS has issued a Special Weather Statement for much of northern Wisconsin, emphasizing the risks of hazardous travel and icy conditions.

Additionally, a wind Advisory has been issued for Kewaunee and Manitowoc counties, where southwest winds of 20 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph, could lead to unsecured objects being blown around and a few power outages​. The warning is in effect until 6 p.m. EST.

What People Are Saying

The NWS in Pittsburgh said in a warning on Tuesday: "Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles."

"People are urged to secure loose objects that could be blown around or damaged by the wind," NWS Pittsburgh added.

NWS Green Bay office said in a post on X, formerly Twitter, on Tuesday: "Southwest winds will gust to 30-45 mph will continue for the remainder of the afternoon. A Wind Advisory is in effect until 6 pm for portions of east-central WI. Take steps to secure outdoor objects and use caution while driving."

NWS Chicago office said in a post on X on Tuesday: "[4:03 PM CST Tue 1/28] Waukegan Airport gusted to 51 mph as of the latest observation (3:51pm). This is the strongest wind gust observed so far today across northern IL & in line with expectations of the strongest southwest winds happening now thru shortly after sunset."

What Happens Next

As the cold front progresses, the NWS anticipates conditions to improve by Wednesday evening in most areas. However, additional precipitation and wind-related disruptions may follow in regions where the front is still active. Residents are encouraged to continue monitoring updates from their local weather service offices.