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:  

SR 20 Both Directions.  Monday, April 11 to Thursday, April 14-- Traffic for both directions of SR 20 will alternate a single lane at Van Horn Lane (milepost 91) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 

INLAND WEATHER: Temperatures will continue to top out in the low 50s today and tomorrow. Lows this evening will be in the 30s with mid 20s in the Newhalem area.  Wind will be mostly from the north but expect some east wind in the Newhalem area.  Wind gusts could be as high as 23 mph or so in Point Roberts. Spotty showers are possible today and tonight and you can expect them to continue through the weekend.  The temperatures may warm up a little over the weekend but will still remain in the 50s.

RIVERS AND STREAMS: 

Looking out five to six days, there are a couple of weather systems that will move through the area bringing enough precipitation to cause the Nooksack River and small streams to rise a little.  No flooding will occur but if you are going to be around the river, expect the flow to increase and the level to rise.  Small streams may spread out beyond their banks so it is possible you could encounter some water on the roads although the chance is slight.   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

Weakening low pressure is over the area. Weather  systems will move into northern California and Oregon through the  end of the week. Onshore flow will increase on Saturday. A front  will likely reach Western Washington Sunday night or Monday.   Winds. Today:  NE wind 5 to 15 kt becoming NW in the afternoon. Wind  waves 2 ft or less. Tonight: N wind 5 to 15 kt becoming SE 10 to 20 kt after  midnight. Wind waves 1 to 3 ft. Tomorrow:  SE wind 5 to 15 kt easing to 10 kt in the afternoon. Wind  waves 2 ft or less. A slight chance of showers.  Tomorrow Night:   NE wind 5 to 15 kt. Wind waves 2 ft or less. 

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.