Early Flood Warning

Early Flood Warning Stations
The River and Flood Division maintains a satellite network of early flood warning stations: 
  • United States Geological Survey (USGS) gauging  stations.
  • United States Department of Agriculture National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Snow Telemetry Sites (SNOTEL).

Provide information to determine potential flood threat for the Nooksack River Basin and used by:

  • Whatcom County
  • Washington Department of Emergency Management.
  • Federal Emergency Management Agency
  • National Weather Service
  • United States Army Corps of Engineers (CORPS)

   SNOTEL Stations

Snotel Station
The USGS provides stream flow data for 5 locations for the Nooksack River watershed basin online. 
  
Maps & Data Reports
 
  • Available from the NRCS, Washington State Cooperative Snow, Water, and Climate Services Program.
  • Combined with information from the National Weather Service and USGS to forecast potential storm conditions and flood effects.
Analyzing Weather Patterns
     
  • The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Weather Service (NWS) provides information on weather patterns and their effect on the local environment.
  • The NWS issues specific levels of warning (flood watch, flood warning).
  • Local and state agencies can use the warning levels to develop into action plans.

Protecting Lives & Property    

  • Local agencies and private citizens are provided with information.
  • Appropriate measures can be taken to protect lives and property from flood damages.
  • The Early Flood Warning system allows impacted citizens to make rational judgments for their own safety and protection.
  • Allows a coordinated and effective response to the flood threat.
  • Private citizens can check the stream gauges via the Internet to stay informed of current flood levels.
  • Sample data is available on the internet.