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

Sever Weather Damage 21-18 Emergency Proclamation by the Governor:  Covers the severe wind and rainstorm event that began on November 12, 2021.  https://www.governor.wa.gov/sites/default/files/proclamations/21-18%20-%20Severe%20Weather%20Damage%20%28tmp%29.pdf

The Proclamation of Emergency for the November Flooding signed by the Whatcom County Exec remains in effect.  Also, individuals affected by the flood have until March 7, 2022 to register with FEMA.

UPDATE:  

The United States has announced that fully vaccinated, non-citizen travelers with appropriate documentation will be permitted to enter the United States for non-essential travel via land Ports Of Entry and ferry terminals starting on November 8, 2021 and has released this fact sheet to assist those entering the United States. https://www.dhs.gov/news/2021/10/29/fact-sheet-guidance-travelers-enter-us-land-ports-entry-and-ferry-terminals.

Canada continues to make incremental changes as they lift restrictions as they relate to COVID border crossing restrictions.  See https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel-voyage/gbi-rgf-eng.html for additional information.

SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 3 AM PDT THURSDAY for west winds 20-30 knots.  Where: East Entrance U. S. Waters Strait Of Juan De Fuca, Northern Inland Waters Including The San Juan Islands, West Entrance U. S. Waters Strait Of Juan De Fuca, Central U. S.   Waters Strait Of Juan De Fuca and Admiralty Inlet.

Inland Weather

Looks like we can expect some fog and rain today with highs in the low to mid 50s.  While there won't be any strong wind in the inland areas, Point Roberts can expect some south/southwest winds switching to a west/northwest direction later and gusts in the mid-20 mph range and a little stronger this evening.  The rest of the county can expect south/southeast winds in the 10-15 mph range.  Lows tonight will drop into the mid to upper 30s but Newhalem should expect lows around 30 degrees.  The snow level will drop from the 3800' level to around 1500' after midnight. Precipitation will stop overnight and then we're in for a mostly cloudy to all clouds Thursday and Friday.  A new round of moisture works it's way into the area Friday night.  Temperatures will stay in the low to mid-50s with lows in the upper 30s.

Rivers and Streams

The Nooksack River and other streams will rise a little over the next week due to several fronts pushing through.  None of the fronts will drop enough moisture to cause any concern as far as flooding but the levels will rise a little and the velocity will increase as well.  The key is to be prepared for these changes if you're on or near the river and not caught off-guard.  Remember, you can always go to the Public Works website and check the river levels - https://www.whatcomcounty.us/666/Forecasts-Current-River-Conditions.

Whatcom County Coastal Weather

A weak cold front will cross the waters today followed  by high pressure building in its wake Thursday into Friday.  Another front will arrive over the weekend.  Winds. Today:  SE wind 5 to 15 kt becoming SW 15 to 25 kt in the  afternoon. Wind waves 2 ft or less building to 2 to 4 ft in the  afternoon. Areas of fog in the morning. A chance of rain in the  morning then rain in the afternoon. Tonight: W wind 15 to 25 kt. Wind waves 2 to 4 ft.  Tomorrow:  E wind 10 to 20 kt becoming N 5 to 15 kt in the afternoon.  Wind waves 1 to 3 ft. Areas of fog in the morning.  Tomorrow Night:  NW wind 5 to 15 kt becoming N after midnight. Wind  waves 2 ft or less.


Tide Information 

Emergency Management Tips and Reminders

Winter Travel

While we are starting to come out of winter, it's important to remember, the weather at lower elevations is not what you will experience at the 5000-6000' levels.  Temperatures difference of 10-15 degrees or more can result in heavy rain in the lowlands and heavy snow in the upper elevations or crossing the passes.  As we cross into April and May the chances for that continue to drop but a stray weather system can still result in hazardous driving conditions.  With that in mind continue to be diligent.  Things to be aware of:

Have your car checked to make sure all parts are in good working order.  Tires should have good tread, all lights should be working, and windshield wipers should be changed if they do not provide a clean sweep of moisture on the windshield.

If there is snow on your vehicle, clean as much snow off your vehicle as possible.  Windows should be completely clean for maximum visibility.  Snow left on the hood of your vehicle can blow across your windshield and fog or cloud up inside due to the temperature change (another reason to clean all snow off your vehicle).  Headlights, brake lights, direction lights, etc. should all be clean again to make other drivers see you and know your intentions.

Make sure you have a Winter Safety Kit in you car that contains:  flashlight with extra batteries, cell phone and charger, extra blanket and clothes, high-energy food and water, games to keep children occupied, small shovel, sand or mat for traction if you encounter icy conditions, among other things deemed necessary.

If you are running your car to remain warm, remember to leave a window open to prevent a build-up of carbon monoxide.

Before leaving on a trip, call ahead and let someone know the time you are departing and your route of travel.  Likewise, upon arrival at your destination, let contact know you have arrived.

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.