Another Pacific storm is aimed at Western Washington and weather officials say there’s a possibility New Year’s Day of more high winds in the lowlands and heavy snow in the mountains.

Forecasters expect the bulk of the winds to hit the southern part of the state, sparing Snohomish County, said Ted Buehner, a National Weather Service meteorologist.

Still, there’s a chance the storm could change direction.

“If this thing decides to go north, then all of us are going to be in it,” he said. That could mean widespread power outages.

The storm also is forecast to bring more rain in the lowlands and several feet of snow in the mountains creating extremely high avalanche danger.

Experts said there’s no question that snow slabs will give way in the mountains on New Year’s Day. People are warned to stay out of the backcountry.

Ski areas, which clear away avalanche threats, should be safe, said Mark Moore, an avalanche forecaster.

Still, everyone needs to be cautious, he said.

While there may be rain showers tonight during New Year’s Eve celebrations, the high winds are expected to hold off until tomorrow, Buehner said.

“People will be able to enjoy the transition from ‘08 to ‘09 without much of an adverse impact,” he said.