A major coastal storm headed towards southern New England is expected to hit the Vineyard with strong winds Tuesday and Wednesday, raising the risk of power outages.

The National Weather Service has placed the Island under a high wind warning, predicting north winds between 25 and 30 mph from about 8 a.m. Tuesday until Wednesday afternoon. Gusts could reach up to 60 mph.

“People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches,” the weather service wrote in an alert Monday. “If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive.”

Eversource sent a note out to customers on Sunday saying the utility company was preparing for the storm, which is expected to also bring rain and potentially an inch or two of snow to the Island.

“Wind gusts as high as 50-60 mph along the coast, with heavy wet snow and rain in some areas may topple trees, bring down power lines and cause power outages,” the company wrote. “We’re ready to respond quickly and safely.”

The Steamship Authority warned that the weather could cause ferries to stay in port during the storm. Cancellations are possible on both the Vineyard and Nantucket routes and the ferry line said it would waive change or cancellation fees for Tuesday and Wednesday travel.

The National Weather Service also said there could be pockets of minor to moderate coastal flooding.