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

The U.S. has extended an order closing the shared border to nonessential traffic until at least September 21, 2021.  Canada allows fully vaccinated Americans to visit Canada however, there are several additional requirements you need to be aware of.  See Canada Border Services Agency for additional requirements:  https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel-voyage/gbi-rgf-eng.html.

Environment Canada has issued a "Gale Warning".  Wind southeast 10-15 knots increasing to southeast 15-20 knots early this morning then diminishing to southeast 10-15 knots this afternoon.  Wind increasing to northwest 25-25 knots after midnight then becoming northwest 20-30 knots near noon Wednesday.

**The Whatcom County Fire Marshal has issued an update to burn restrictions for unincorporated Whatcom County.  Recreations fires are once again allowed (information - https://www.whatcomcounty.us/381/Fire-Marshal.  You can call 360.778.5903.

Governor Inslee has issued an Emergency Proclamation titled "Wildfires-Burn Ban".  This burn ban is good until noon on Thursday September 30, 2021." Additionally, national park service, US Forest Service, Department of Natural Resources, individual fire districts, etc. have their own set of rules which you must review and comply with.

State Route 9:  Intermittent single lane closures continuing through the month of August and possibly into September just south of Acme.  Expect some delays during this time. as crews continue to complete the project.   

Inland Weather

Rain is on the way and will be with us into early tomorrow (some parts of the county). High temperatures will range from around 60 to 65 degrees and then drop into the low to mid 50s tonight. Newhalem will drop into the upper 40s. Expect some wind to develop today mostly in the Point Roberts area and will see some gusts between 25-31 mph from the northwest and west overnight into tomorrow. Tomorrow's highs will be a little cooler and tomorrow night will  see an upper 30s reading in Newhalem.  Rainfall over the next 24 hours or so will range between a thenth of an inch to half an inch.  There will be some sunny spots in the county tomorrow but you can expect mostly cloudy overall.  Looking toward Thursday night and into Friday we're going to see a stronger weather system move into the area with colder temperatures in the upper elevations.  As a matter of fact, there is the chance for some snow (yes, snow) above 6000 feet.  That should set in motion our plans to get our cars ready over the next month or so for weather conditions that may impact our driving; in other words, make sure windshield wipers are in good shape, tires have good tread, start putting together the winter weather kit so it's ready to go by the end of October.  Little things now make a big difference later.

Rivers and Streams

Flows within the rivers and streams of Whatcom County are normal; expect them to continue to flow steady at current levels. As we head into the weekend, there could be a little runoff from the rain that will cause the river to rise a foot or so; nothing dramatic, but the rains are going to begin impacting the river's ebb and flow depending on storm strength.

Whatcom County Coastal Weather

A front will arrive and cross through the area waters today, yielding advisory level winds in portions of the area.  Weak high pressure midweek will five way to a much stronger front on Friday.  Advisory level conditions expected again.  Winds.  Today:  SE wind 5-15 knots easing to 10 knots in the afternoon.  Wind waves 2' or less.  A chance of rain in the morning then rain likely in the afternoon.  Tonight:  SE wind 5-15 knots becoming @ 10-20 knots after midnight.  Wind waves 1-3'.  A chance of rain. Tomorrow:  W wind 10-20 knots.  Wind waves 1-3'.  Tomorrow Night:  W wind 10-20 knots.  Wind waves 1-3'.  While there are no advisories issued at this time, weather system can be stronger or weaker then predicted, so make sure to tune to marine weather to catch the latest updates should and advisory or warning be issued.

Emergency Management Tips and Reminders

It is National Preparedness Month and now is the time to Build a Kit...

After an emergency, you may need to rely on yourself and your household or community for several days. It’s important to have supplies set aside and ready to use, including water, non-perishable food, medications, first aid kit, copies of important paperwork, and additional items.

When building a kit, make sure to have one wherever you spend much of the time (e.g. home, work, car). Don’t forget to consider the unique needs each person or pet may have, such as medications or medical equipment, in case you have to evacuate quickly. 

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

A basic emergency supplies kit could include the following items:

Visit Ready.gov for a complete list of recommended emergency supplies.

COVID-19

Information concerning face coverings and other protective actions can be found 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.