Information about COVID-19 also referred to as “coronavirus” can be found on the Whatcom County Health Department website. 

Active Incidents

The “Proclamation of Emergency” signed by the Whatcom County Executive concerning the storms and flooding several weeks ago remains in effect at this time.  

Advisories, Watches and Warnings: 

A “Small Craft Advisory” is in effect for northwest winds 15-25 knots until 5:00 pm this afternoon.

Whatcom County Weather

While we’ll have mostly dry conditions over the next couple of days, it will feel pretty blustery due to winds from the west or northwest. Not everyone will see gusts to 25 mph like Blaine, but any wind will make it feel cooler than what the thermometer tells you. Highs today and tomorrow for the lower elevations of the county will be in the mid-40s while the foothills will be around 43 degrees. Lows tonight will be in the low to mid 30s. Expect an increased chance for frost tomorrow night and Friday night as those temperatures drop to the freezing level or below. The ski area will see lows into the teens Thursday and Friday night.

The Nooksack River level is going to remain right about where it is today through Sunday.

Coastal Weather for Whatcom County

For the Coastal and Inland waters of Whatcom County, once the current “Small Craft Advisory” expires later today, we’ll have a 24-36 hour period where winds will be under 20knots. When we get to Friday, we’re looking for winds to pick up again to 15-25 knots during the day and out of the northeast 30-40 knots Friday evening. Small Craft Advisories and Gale Warnings are almost certain if those winds hold.

For the tides, today was the last day of King Tides for awhile.  Otherwise, tides at Cherry Point for the next two days:

Here are a few emergency management reminders:

First, put your Winter Safety Kit in your vehicle if you haven’t done so already. Check the Washington State Department of Transportation website for a list of items to have in your kit.

Second, watch for ice and slush on the roadways especially where the temperature drops below the freezing level. And don’t forget, shaded caused by overhanging trees, mountains, or even buildings can shield the sun from thawing the frost and you could go from a dry area to patches of frost which could cause a loss of traction or vehicle control. Elevation will also make a difference as to where the freezing level is so keep alert.

Third, watch for packed snow or patches of packed snow if you are headed to the ski area or crossing the Cascades over the next couple of days. Slush or snow building up under your vehicle tires can cause your vehicle to ride on top of an unstable surface and can lead to loss of traction and vehicle control.

Fourth, keep an eye on the avalanche notifications and tree well warning. You can find information about both on the Mount Baker Ski Area Website Home Page.

Fifth, don’t drive through water flowing over roads. It only take three to six inches of fast moving water to knock you off your feet and another few inches to move vehicles as large as SUVs.  Do not go around signs or barriers; they are there for your protection and going a different route will only cost you a little bit of time.  

This briefing line is not updated on weekends unless an incident occurs.