Wintry weather system heading toward Whatcom lowlands, freeze is possible
A weather system that’s more typical of winter is heading toward Whatcom County, with temperatures near freezing and winds that could knock out power.
“Northeast winds of 25-35 mph are possible in Whatcom County [on] Tuesday evening/Wednesday via a possible light Fraser Outflow. There is a 10% chance of gusts in the 35-45 mph range there Tuesday evening into Wednesday morning. This could cause localized tree damage and power outages,” the National Weather service said.
A Fraser Outflow weather pattern, called a Nor’easter in local jargon, sends arctic air roaring through the Fraser River Valley and into northwest Whatcom County.
Lowland Whatcom County’s first freeze of the year is possible Thursday morning, according to the National Weather Service in Seattle.
A threat of freezing temperatures will continue through Sunday, according to an online briefing.
A freeze watch was issued for early Thursday morning for temperatures as low as 30 degrees, or about 10 degrees colder that normal for this time of year.
Snow levels are expected fall to around 1,000 feet, the height of foothills surrounding Bellingham.
Unseasonably cold weather will continue through the weekend, but the chances of lowland snow decline because the skies will clear Friday evening through Monday.
“Cool temperatures below average will continue through the long-term period. Freeze headlines may expand Friday morning to more populated areas,” the National Weather Service said online.
