Janice R. Andrews
28 January 2024
As an atmospheric river moves across western Washington, the National Weather Service (NWS) has released a Hydrologic Outlook that calls for consistent rain throughout the weekend and into the first part of next week. It is predicted to rain from moderate to heavy amounts, which might result in “minor nuisance flooding” in some locations and water over roads.
The lowlands are expected to receive 0.5 to 1.5 inches of rain by Saturday afternoon from atmospheric rivers, which are known for providing extended rain. Mountainous areas may receive 2 to 4 inches, and coastal regions may receive up to 2 inches. Along with bringing milder temperatures, this weather system will also raise snow levels to 7,000–8,000 feet and cause some melting. On Sunday, the temperature can rise by up to 10 degrees above average.
On Sunday, a secondary atmospheric river is expected to make landfall, bringing with it one to three inches of precipitation to the mountains and less to the plains. Concerns about water over roads and “minor nuisance flooding” in places with inadequate drainage are brought up by this pattern.
Though things could change, the North Cascades and the Olympic Peninsula are predicted to receive the most of the rain. It is possible that the Skokomish River may stay above minor flood stage for a considerable amount of time, perhaps even reaching major flood stage. There’s a greater chance of landslides extending into the following week due to the ongoing intense rain.
It is anticipated that on Tuesday and Wednesday, a third atmospheric river will bring with it another round of moderate to heavy precipitation. On Thursday, colder weather is predicted to return, bringing snow levels down to mountain pass levels. As things develop, locals are asked to be cautious and be informed about weather alerts.
Watch this space for more information on the changing weather pattern impacting western Washington.
