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:  

SMALL CRAFT ADVISORY NOW IN EFFECT FROM 7 PM THIS EVENING TO 2 AM PDT WEDNESDAY for southwest winds 15-25 knots.  Where: Northern Inland Waters Including The San Juan Islands. 

INLAND WEATHER: A chance for showers continues today across the county with the possibility of a stray thunderstorm this afternoon or evening.  High temperatures will be in the mid-50s for the most part although it will be a little cooler in the Maple Falls vicinity and cooler yet in Newhalem.  Winds will be from the south/southwest or west under 15 mph (most areas under 10 mph).  Lows overnight will be around 40 degrees although Newhalem lows will be near the freezing level.  Snow levels will also be lower in the Newhalem area during those low temperature periods-around 1900' and there could be rain/snow mixtures in Newhalem tomorrow.  Showers will not lead to any significant precipitation. Tomorrow will be about the same with clouds breaking up in the evening leaving partly cloudy skies overnight.  We could see a break for a couple of days (Wednesday and Thursday),  with showers reentering the picture on Friday. Newhalem may see some showers on Thursday.

RIVERS AND STREAMS: 

The Nooksack River has leveled off and will remain level over the next five days or so.   As we get to May 1st, it appears there are a few more weather systems working their way into the area and the Nooksack will see an increase in level and flow. The showers will have little effect on the level and flow.   At this time, all the readings remain well below the banks.  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 front will move through the waters this  afternoon. Weak high pressure will build over the area tonight and  remain through Wednesday night. A 1015 mb surface low will  dissipate over the northern offshore waters Thursday. Next front arriving Friday night into Saturday.   Winds. Today:  S wind 5 to 15 kt. Wind waves 2 ft or less. A chance of  showers in the morning then showers likely and a slight chance of  tstms in the afternoon. Tonight:  SW wind 15 to 25 kt easing to 10 to 20 kt after  midnight. Wind waves 2 to 4 ft. A chance of showers and a slight  chance of tstms in the evening then a slight chance of showers  after midnight. Tomorrow:   SW wind to 10 kt becoming S in the afternoon. Wind waves  1 ft or less. A chance of showers.  Tomorrow Night:  W wind to 10 kt becoming NE after midnight. Wind  waves 1 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.