Unseasonably warm temperatures Wednesday and possible wind gusts as high as 65 miles per hour are predicted into the night, as a High Wind Warning has been issued for most of Iowa including Washington County.

A High Wind Warning is in effect from 3 p.m. Wednesday until 6 a.m. Thursday for much of eastern Iowa, with southwest winds forecasted at 25-35 mph with gusts of up to 65 mph possible. Stronger gusts are possible with showers and storms Wednesday evening. Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines, and widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Any fires that start could spread rapidly. The National Weather Service recommends people to avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches. If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive. Listen to KCII for weather updates.