An updated high wind watch was released by the National Weather Service on Saturday at 12:55 a.m. valid for Sunday between 4 a.m. and 8 p.m. for Yuma, Kit Carson and Cheyenne counties.

“North winds 35 to 45 mph with gusts up to 65 mph possible,” states the NWS. “There is potential that the strong to damaging wind potential could start a little earlier if the cold front were to move into the area faster. Blowing dust with visibilities one mile or less are forecast occur with the front and throughout the day Sunday.”

“High winds may move loose debris, damage property and cause power outages. Travel could be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Plumes of blowing dust will create pockets of low visibility. Visibilities will likely change rapidly over short distances, making travel hazardous in these areas,” comments the NWS. “Monitor the latest forecasts and warnings for updates. Fasten loose objects or shelter objects in a safe location prior to the onset of winds. Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution. Blowing dust can significantly lower air quality and it is encouraged that you take preventative measures such as staying indoors or wearing protective breathing masks if outside. High dust concentrations can cause respiratory problems, decrease lung activity, aggravate asthma, and lead to potential heart-related problems, especially with children, elderly or those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.”

High wind alerts: Your guide to safety

When it comes to high wind alerts, understanding the levels of risk is crucial. The NWS classifies them into three distinct categories:

High wind warning: Take action.

Sustained, strong winds with even stronger gusts are happening. Seek shelter. If you are driving, keep both hands on the wheel and slow down.

Wind advisory: Take action.

Strong winds are occurring but are not so strong as to warrant a High wind warning. Objects that are outdoors should be secured and caution should be taken if driving.

High wind watch: Be prepared.

Sustained, strong winds are possible. Secure loose outdoor items and adjust plans as necessary so you’re not caught outside.

How to prepare before strong winds approach

• Trim tree branches away from your house and power lines.

• Secure loose gutters and shutters.

• Identify an interior room of your house, such as a basement or interior bathroom, that you can take shelter in during high wind warnings.

• If you live in a mobile home, identify a sturdy building you can go to if the NWS issues a high wind or severe thunderstorm warning.

• Charge batteries of all essential items such as cell phones and booster packs, weather radios and power tools such as a reciprocating saw, which you might need to clear debris.

• Update your emergency kit and be sure to include enough food and water to last for 3 days for each person in your home.

• Make a list of items outside your home you will need to tie down or put away so that they don’t blow away or fly through a window. When the NWS issues a high wind watch, immediately secure these items to avoid damage or injury once the wind starts picking up.

How to act during strong winds

Take shelter:

• Immediately go inside a sturdy building during a high wind warning or severe thunderstorm warning and move to an interior room or basement.

• If you are in a mobile home, move to a sturdy building before the winds pick up or the storm system reaches your location.

If caught outside or driving:

• Take shelter in your car if you are not near a sturdy building. If possible, drive to a nearby sturdy building. Otherwise, move your car to a location where it is less likely to be hit by falling trees or power lines.

• If no shelter is available avoid trees, power lines, and the side of the road. Keep in mind that power lines that are laying on the ground may be live. Do not go near them! Try to find a place that will block blowing or falling debris.

• If you are driving and aren’t near a sturdy building, hold the steering wheel with both hands and slow down.

• Keep a distance from high profile vehicles such as trucks, buses and vehicles towing trailers. One strong gust of wind can be enough to flip one of these trailers onto its side.

What to do after strong winds subside

• Do not go near downed power lines. Report downed power lines to the police.

• Be careful when handling debris that may have blown into your yard.

Source: The National Weather Service