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

UPDATES:  

Environment Canada has issued a "Strong Wind Warning" for the Strait of Georgia-South of Nanaimo. Wind southwesterly 5-15 knots backing to southeast 15 knots this morning except south 20 knots south of Tsawwassen.  Wind becoming southeasterly 5-15 knots early this evening then becoming light after midnight.  Wind increasing  to southeast 15-20 knots Wednesday morning then becoming southwest 15 knots Wednesday evening.
Today is opening day for SR-20 (North Cascade Highway). The Spring 2022 cleanup is complete and the crew will open the gates on SR 20 North Cascades Highway this morning at 10:00 am.  Keep in mind many of the Forest Service and Park Service facilities remain closed.  And, the possibility of occasional snow remains relevant at higher elevations as does the risk of avalanches. So enjoy, but remain vigilant for potential dangers.

INLAND WEATHER: Our weather will continue to be dominated by a chance for showers with some sun breaking through from time to time. High temperatures will reach the mid 50s or a little higher and lows will be around the 40 degree mark with the lowlands slightly above and Maple Falls and Newhalem still seeing readings in the upper 30s overnight.  The snow level will continue to drop into the 2100' to 2400' range before rising to 4200' or higher during  the daytime.  While little or no accumulation is predicted, always be wary of slippery spots. The wind today will mostly be from a southerly direction but leaning a little to the southeast or southwest at times. Point Roberts will still see the higher winds tonight and throughout the day tomorrow with gusts in the 20s tonight and tomorrow and around 40 mph tomorrow night and Thursday.

RIVERS AND STREAMS: 

There will  be a few little ups and downs for the river and stream levels over the next 10 days due to periods of rain and some snow melting.  None of them will create any issues that demand action. But if you plan on being on, or near the river, always be cognizant of the potential for changes that could impact your activities.  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

Light onshore flow through tonight with weak high pressure  building over the coastal waters. Next weather system  will arrive late Wednesday night and Thursday. An additional system  will move through the southern portion of the area Saturday.           Winds: Today:  S wind 5 to 15 kt. Wind waves 2 ft or less. A slight  chance of rain in the morning then a chance of showers in the  afternoon. Tonight:   SW wind 5 to 15 kt. Wind waves 2 ft or less. A slight  chance of showers in the evening then a slight chance of rain  after midnight.  Tomorrow:  S wind 5 to 15 kt. Wind waves 2 ft or less. A slight  chance of rain in the morning then a chance of rain in the  afternoon.  Tomorrow Night:  SW wind 10 to 20 kt becoming SE 20 to 30 kt after  midnight. Wind waves 1 to 3 ft building to 3 to 5 ft after  midnight. 

Note:  While there are no "Small Craft Advisories" posted at this time, looking at tomorrow night and lasting into Thursday, winds are predicted to be in the "Small Craft Advisory" range. Watch for an advisory to be issued for this period.
 

 
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.