BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Forecasters are predicting heavy rain and high snow levels this weekend into next week as an atmospheric river approaches the region.
The National Weather Service in Seattle (NWS) is forecasting lowland rain, mountain snow and breezy conditions in western Washington. Conditions through Sunday, Dec. 7 will be minor as rivers will begin to rise and snowfall continues at higher elevations.
Heading into Monday, Dec. 8, an atmospheric river is forecasted over the region, increasing the potential for coastal/river flooding, moderate winds and increased rain. The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management said in an alert:
“At this point predictions are for the river levels to remain below action stage at the Saxon and Cedarville gauges, but in action stage and just below minor flooding at Ferndale on Tuesday and Wednesday.”
As rainfall continues into later next week, the Division of Emergency Management will continue to monitor water levels.
In addition to the increased rainfall heading into next week, king tides are forecast along the coast from Saturday through Monday. My Bellingham Now previously reported that tides could rise as high as 9.9 feet during this month’s event in Bellingham. Tides are forecast to be at their peak at the same time winds will be at their strongest.
With snow levels at around 5,000 to 6,000 ft, the NWS is also warning residents of the elevated risk for landslides from heavier rainfall runoff in these areas.
The NWS is also forecasting the potential for river flooding on the Skagit River during this atmospheric river under a moderate increasing trend.
