These Daily Briefings on Incidents, Advisories, Watches and Warnings, current weather and Emergency Management tips are published Monday through Friday, as well as during times of increased awareness or actual events.

Active Incidents

The “Proclamation of Emergency” signed by the Whatcom County Executive concerning COVID-19 remains in effect. Information about Whatcom County’s response to COVID-19 is available at the Joint Information Center’s COVID-19 website. 

Whatcom County is in Phase 2 of the Washington Safe Start Plan, and does not yet meet eligibility requirements to apply for Phase 3. Simplistically, social distancing, the mask directive and groups of 5 or less are the guidelines of Phase 2. More info about Phase 2 in Whatcom County can be found here, and updates can be found here.

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

Washington state has implemented a cloth mask mandate requiring the wearing of a mask in public indoors and wherever a social distance of six feet cannot be maintained outdoors. More info can be found here and here.

Advisories, Watches and Warnings: 

There are no advisories, watches, or warnings at this time.

Whatcom County Weather

Expecting dry weather through today. Periods of light rain will arrive after midnight tonight and continue into Thursday before ending mid to late afternoon. Winds will remain pretty light throughout.

Coastal Weather for Whatcom County

For the Coastal and Inland waters of Whatcom County, we can expect southerly wind 5 to 15 knots. Wind waves should be 2 feet or less. Tonight, the winds should turn southwesterly 5 to 15 knots, easing to 10 knots after midnight, with wind waves 2 feet or less.

Tides at Cherry Point for the next two days:

Here are a few emergency management reminders:

COVID-19: Everyone in Washington State, including Whatcom County, is directed to wear a face covering while at any indoor public space and any outdoor public space where you may be within 6 feet of someone who does not live with you. You can find more info about face coverings and other protective actions here and here.

Pets in Disasters tips: Remember, during a disaster what’s good for you is good for your pet, so get them ready today. If you leave your pets behind, they may be lost, injured, or worse. Never leave a pet chained outdoors. Plan options include:

• Create a buddy system in case you’re not home. Ask a trusted neighbor to check on your animals.
• Identify shelters. For public health reasons, many emergency shelters cannot accept pets. 
  • Find pet friendly hotels along your evacuation route and keep a list in your pet’s emergency kit.
  • Locate boarding facilities or animal hospitals near your evacuation shelter.
  • Consider an out-of-town friend or relative.
• Locate a veterinarian or animal hospital in the area where you may be seeking temporary shelter in case your pet needs medical care. Add the contact information to your emergency kit.
• Have your pet microchipped and make sure that you not only keep your address and phone number up-to-date, but that you also include contact info for an emergency contact outside of your immediate area.

Build a Kit: Include basic survival items and items to keep your pet happy and comfortable. Start with this list, or download "Preparing Makes Sense for Pet Owners-Emergency Preparedness Pet Kit List (PDF)" to find out exactly what items your pet needs to be ready. Your kit should include:

• Food (at least a three day supply in an airtight, waterproof container)
• Water (at least three days of water specifically for your pets)
• Medicines
• Medical records, proof of vaccinations, registration and adoption documents (talk to your veterinarian about microchipping)
• First aid kit (cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors, antibiotic ointment, flea and tick prevention, latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol, saline solution and a pet first aid reference book)
• Collar or harness with ID tag, rabies tag and a leash
• Crate or pet carrier (a sturdy, safe crate or carrier large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down)
• Sanitation needs (litter box and litter, newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household chlorine bleach)
• A picture of you and your pet together to prove ownership (add species, breed, age, sex, color and distinguishing characteristics)
• Familiar items (treats, toys and bedding can help reduce stress for your pet)

"Procrastination is the foundation of all disasters."  - Pandora Poikilo

Be Prepared and Stay Safe!

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