COVID-19 - 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 until at least June 21, 2021

A "Small Craft Advisory" will go into effect from 2:00am to 6:00pm on Thursday, May 27th for south winds 15-25 knots.

Environment Canada has issued a Strong Wind Warning to Today, Tonight and Thursday for Winds from the southeast 10-15 knots increasing to southeast 15-25 knots  near midnight except south; 30 knots south of Tsawwassen Thursday morning.  Wind becoming southeast 15 knots near noon Thursday.

Whatcom County Weather

Inland Weather

Dry weather is in the forecast for Wednesday but that will  soon change as we go into Wednesday night.  But before we get there, mild temps and mostly cloudy skies are in the offing with generally benign conditions. But as mentioned, conditions will deteriorate late overnight as widespread rain envelops the region. Steady rainfall will persist into Thursday before breaking into showers during the day. Models are currently in a disagreement over max wind gusts but breezy to gusty conditions are likely.  We will see some SW 10-20 mph winds today then switching to the southeast tonight at 10-20 mph.  Tomorrow winds will be from the south at 15-25 mph with gusts 30-35 mph.  Temperatures today will reach the low 60s and then drop to the low 50s overnight.  Tomorrow's highs will only reach the upper 50s and with the wind, it will feel cooler.

Rain showers will continue at times through Thursday night (and Friday for the foothills and mountains) before tapering off. Dry conditions and warmer temperatures are then expected starting Friday and lasting through the weekend and likely Monday as well. Winds will decrease on Friday and should stay much lighter here going forward.

Rivers and Streams

Flows within the rivers and streams of Whatcom County are normal with no likelihood of flooding. Look for the rivers and streams to rise on Thursday and Friday from the rain and then drop back Saturday rather quickly.  The main thing to be aware of is if you are on or near the river you should expect higher and faster moving water.

Whatcom County Coastal Weather

High pressure over the waters this morning will dissipate this afternoon and evening.  A cold front will move through the area early Thursday.  High pressure will rebuild over the waters Thursday night and remain through the weekend.  Winds:  Today:  S wind 5-15 knots.  Wind waves 2' or less.  A slight chance of showers in the morning.  Tonight:  SW NE wind to 10 knots becoming SE 15-25 knots after midnight.  Wind waves 1' or less building to 2-4' after midnight.  A slight chance of rain in the evening then rain after midnight.  Tomorrow:  S wind 15-25 knots.  Wind waves 2-4.  Rain in the morning then showers likely and a slight chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon.             

Emergency Management Tips and Reminders

May is Volcano Preparedness Month

May is Volcano Preparedness Month in Washington, providing residents an opportunity to become more familiar with our own Mount Baker, and the volcanic risk to our communities.

How can you prepare for a volcanic eruption?

The active Cascade volcanoes, including our own Mount Baker, that make our state so beautiful could erupt sometime in the future. How can you prepare for a volcanic eruption? How will you react if one of Washington’s volcanoes erupts?

Volcano preparedness month is a time to inform yourself about volcanic hazards and to plan to keep you and your family safe in case of a volcanic eruption or lahar (volcanic mudflow). To learn about lahars, how to stay safe from ashfall, and how to get information in case of an eruption you can download our Disaster Preparedness Guide. (https://mil.wa.gov/asset/5ba4202c2b79d) In addition to volcanic hazards, this Guide will help you prepare your home for other potential risks we face here in Whatcom County.

Be ready for the next volcanic event.

There will be some indication that a volcano may erupt, but the time between the earliest indications of unrest and eruptive activity might be short, from days to weeks or months. The United States Geological Survey Volcano Hazards Program and its monitoring partners work to detect the earliest signals of volcanic unrest to forewarn communities at-risk and provide time for officials to activate emergency response plans and mitigation measures that can save lives and protect property. Because eruptions typically go through episodic cycles of increased activity and relative quiet after they begin, Volcano Hazards Program scientists monitor volcanic behavior very closely to determine when it is safe to declare an eruption is over. In some cases, like in Hawaii, eruptions can continue for several tens of years

 You can also contact the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management at 360.676.6681 for additional information.

COVID-19

Washington State residents are 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 on the Whatcom County Health Department Website.

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.