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 October 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.

A "Small Craft Advisory" is in effect now until 9:00am Wednesday morning for south winds 20-30 knots.

A "Gale Watch" is in effect from Wednesday morning through Wednesday evening for southeast winds 25-35 knots. 

Environment Canada has issued a "Strong Wind Warning" for today, tonight, and Wednesday.  Southerly winds 15-25 knots becoming southwest 15 knots early this morning then diminishing to light near noon except southwest 15-20 knots south of Tsawwsassen.  Wind becoming southwest 10-15 ealy this evening then increasing to southeast 15-250 knots near midnight.  Wind becoming southeast 20-30 knots Wednesday morning.

**The Whatcom County Fire Marshal has lifted the burn ban for outdoor burning.  The ban was lifted at 8:00am on Monday, September 20th, 2021 for unincorporated areas of Whatcom County.

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 5 October just south of Acme.  Expect some delays during this time as crews continue to complete the project.  

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Inland Weather

Wet weather will continue today with a chance for some thunderstorms around the county this morning and early afternoon, then some clearing will take place in spots, and then clouds taking over again this evening with rain falling. Temperatures will reach 60ish and then drop down to around 49 this evening.  Wind will also be a part of the forecast for the next several days.  Some gusts could reach 30mph Wednesday night.  At other times, it could be in the 20-25mph range from the south.  Coastal communities are likely to see the higher wind gusts. Steady rain will fall Wednesday through Thursday tapering off to showers Thursday night.  Friday will bring us sunshine but cooler temperatures.

Rivers and Streams

Rivers and streams have risen just a little over the last 24 hours and they will remain about where they are until Thursday and Friday when they will rise a couple of feet or so from the rain falling Wednesday and Wednesday night.  No flooding is expected, but one can't rule out water running over the road from a plugged culvert or a small stream exceeding the banks.  Water could pool in lower areas if it can't drain away.  So, the wise thing to do is avoid driving through water flowing over roads or standing water more than a couple of inches deep. And, if signs are placed stating the road is closed, turn around.

Whatcom County Coastal Weather

Breezy southerly winds ahead of weak surface low pressure crossing the waters early today.  A warm front lifts north on Wednesday followed by another stronger cold front late Wednesday into Thursday.  High pressure then returns over the waters this weekend.. Winds.  Today:  SW wind 10-20 knots rising to 15-25 knots in the afternoon.  Wind waves 2-4'.  A chance of rain in the morning then a slight chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon. Tonight:  SW wind 15-25 knots becoming S after midnight.  Wind waves 2-4'.  A chance of rain after midnight.  Tomorrow:   SE wind 20-30 knots rising to 25-35 knots in the afternoon.  Wind waves 4-6'.  Rain.  Tomorrow Night:  SE wind 25-35 knots.  Wind waves 4-6'. 

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.