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

UPDATE:  

INLAND WEATHER: Today will be partly to mostly sunny skies with temperatures that will reach the mid-50s. There will be an east wind in Point Roberts with gusts to 20 mph. Other areas of the county may see some northly winds in the 5-12 mph range. There will also be a few more clouds in the foothills. Tonight will be partly to mostly cloudy and temperatures will be in the upper 30s and low 40s. Tomorrow will be a really nice day with temperatures predicted to cross the 60 degree threshold in the lower parts of the county. Winds will be light (5-10mph) and variable in direction. Lows tomorrow night will be about the same as tonight, perhaps a few degrees warmer. But, we can also expect showers and rain to move back into the area which will be with us through the weekend.  Newhalem is forecast to see some light snow beginning Saturday.

RIVERS AND STREAMS: 

We're likely to see the Nooksack River and small streams at higher levels once again from this next weather system but there is no flooding forecast.  However, it's worth noting that small stream do not have the deep banks that the Nooksack does so there could be some small streams that exceed the banks.  Watch for that while driving and if you encounter water running over the road, simply turn around and find an alternative route. Low spots and depressions are likely to fill up with water once again.  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

High pressure will be over the area through Thursday.  An area of  low pressure will shift over the region for the end of the week.  Onshore flow will develop Thursday night and Friday and a cold  front will move through the area.   Winds. Today:  E wind 5 to 15 kt becoming N to 10 kt in the afternoon.  Wind waves 2 ft or less. Tonight: N wind to 10 kt becoming E after midnight. Wind waves  1 ft or less. Tomorrow:  E wind 5 to 15 kt easing to 10 kt in the afternoon. Wind  waves 2 ft or less.   Tomorrow Night: SW wind to 10 kt becoming S 20 to 30 kt after  midnight. Wind waves 1 ft or less building to 3 to 5 ft after midnight. 

Note:  The winds tomorrow night are in the "Small Craft Advisory" range. Even thought one has not yet been issued, monitor marine weather as these announcements can be made anytime.

Tide Information 

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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.