Milder conditions expected Wednesday after strongest windstorm of the season in Western Washington

The strongest windstorm of the season rolled into Western Washington on Tuesday.

The National Weather Service issued a High Wind Warning for much of Western Washington from 1 p.m. Tuesday to 1 a.m. Wednesday.

There were also Flood Watches in effect for most of the region on Tuesday due to exceptionally high tides — known as King Tides — and recent heavy rain.

Several homeowners on Day Island, just west of University Place, are assessing the damage after Tuesday’s King Tide, coupled with low barometric pressure, slammed into their homes.

Many houses were inundated on both the south and north spits as neighbors shared videos and photos of the extensive damage.

>>PHOTOS: Wind damage around Western Washington

Forecast

Mostly cloudy skies and some scattered drizzle over the northwest Interior Wednesday morning. Across the Puget Sound, cloud breaks and slightly cooler temperatures than yesterday although temperatures today (and this week) are trending on the more “normal” side of things.

Overall, today is shaping up to be a fairly mild day as a weaker surface high is building and ridge of high pressure moves in later this evening. As lingering showers dwindle, a few will remain in place favoring mountain locations.

For those with travel plans through Stevens or Snoqualmie Passes — good news! Both are open. Bad news? Both saw 4-5″ of new snow overnight with another 2-4″ expected by end of day.

Compact ice and snow remains on the roads so drive with caution and don’t forget to check WSDOT’s latest road reports before heading out.

Now despite milder weather today, Western Washington is dealing with the aftermath of our chaotic weather pattern from last week and early this week. With King Tides back on the agenda today, coastal flooding is still a threat for areas in the Central and Southern Puget Sound. With minor tidal overflow, a coastal flood advisory and warning remain in effect until 1 p.m.

Looking ahead, our next front arrives overnight, bringing with it widespread lowland rain and mountain snow. Rain totals are looking light with potential snow accumulation also looking light.

A second system rides the heels of the first arriving Thursday night into Friday morning. More lowland rain and mountain snow. Snow levels rise slightly but will still have minor impacts at Stevens Pass and White Pass.

This weekend an upper level trough New Year’s Eve could warrant some scattered showers throughout the day but with an upper level ridge taking its place Sunday, mostly dry conditions New Year’s Day seems favorable.