Information about Whatcom County’s response to COVID-19 is available at the Joint Information Center’s COVID-19 website. 

Active Incidents

The “Proclamation of Emergency” signed by the Whatcom County Executive concerning COVID-19 remains in effect.

The U.S. and Canada have extended an order closing their shared border to nonessential traffic. The move delays the border’s reopening by another 30 days, until at least June 21. This includes both vehicular traffic as well as recreational boating between the countries.

Advisories, Watches and Warnings: 

There will be a small craft advisory in effect from noon today through 0500 Thursday with winds 15-30 knots.

Whatcom County Weather

It’s looking dry through today in the lowlands, although showers will begin to develop in the foothills this afternoon. Scattered showers will continue tonight in the foothills while dry conditions remain most of the night in the lowlands. More drizzle is looking likely to develop later tonight, increasing to showers tomorrow morning. Showers will eventually begin to decrease later Thursday afternoon. Temperatures will be cooler today and tomorrow.

Coastal Weather for Whatcom County

For the Coastal and Inland waters of Whatcom County, we can expect southwest wind 10 to 20 knots rising to 15 to 25 knots in the afternoon. Wind waves should be 2 to 4 feet. Tonight, the winds should shift to the west 20 to 30 knots with wind waves 3 to 5 feet.

Tides at Cherry Point for the next two days:

Here are a few emergency management reminders:

First, Whatcom County public health officials are recommending that everyone wear cloth face coverings in public places. While this isn’t a requirement, it is an additional step of protection that you should take to keep from spreading the virus to others. Wearing cloth face coverings will not prevent the spread of COVID-19 without other protective measures like staying 6 feet away from people who don’t live with you and washing your hands with soap frequently.

Second, as we enter wildfire season, we recommend you create an emergency escape plan. Call us to learn what the evacuation plan is for your area. Discuss this evacuation route with everyone in your family. Ensure family members who live nearby know the route and have means of transportation. Also, stay informed by signing up for emergency text and alert messages from the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Alert link on the county website. Finally, don’t forget to create an emergency kit.

Third, earthquakes can strike at any time, and everyone needs to “Be Prepared,” at home, at school, in the workplace, while shopping, in houses of worship, or just taking a walk in the park. Mother Nature does not pay any attention to the calendar, the weather or the readiness of our communities.  Being prepared is a small investment of time, money and energy that will help protect you, your family and our community.

If an earthquake happens, protect yourself right away. If you are in a car, pull over and stop. Set your parking brake. If you are in bed, turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow. If you are outdoors, stay outdoors away from buildings. Do not get in a doorway. Do not run outside.

Stay safe!

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