Strong winds are forecast through Friday evening around Kenai and Soldotna, with gusts up to 55 miles per hour overnight.

A Special Weather Statement issued by the National Weather Service says that residents of the central Kenai Peninsula should secure loose objects, prepare for the possibility of power outages, and use caution while driving.

As of 5:30 p.m., Homer Electric Association had confirmed seven power outages on Thursday, affecting over 1,100 members across Nikiski, Sterling, Funny River and K-Beach. Three of those outages had at that time already been restored.

The wind comes from a strong storm system moving towards the Interior from Southwest Alaska, the statement says.

For updated forecasts and information about hazardous weather conditions, visit weather.gov/afc.

Reach reporter Jake Dye at jacob.dye@peninsulaclarion.com.