‘Significant changes’ to the Whatcom County forecast released Monday evening
A winter storm warning has been issued for areas including Whatcom County from 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 19., to 7 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 20, according to the latest National Weather Service forecast.
“Significant changes” to the forecast were released Monday afternoon. Very cold temperatures and a cooling trend are now expected through Thursday, Dec. 22, with record-low temperatures possible. The temperature was 18 degrees just before 5 p.m. Monday at Bellingham International Airport.
Low temperatures by Thursday morning could be 10-15 degrees across the Puget Sound, with single-digit temperatures into the areas away from the water and in Whatcom and Skagit counties, according to the Monday afternoon forecast.
Moderate to heavy lowland snow is expected Monday night through Tuesday evening. And freezing rain is becoming increasingly likely Thursday night and Friday, Dec. 23. Heavy rain is likely Friday through the weekend, potentially resulting in rapid snow melt as well as river and urban flooding, according to the weather service.
Very cold temperatures expected Wednesday, Dec. 21, and Thursday will impact vulnerable populations such as the homeless, pets, and those without adequate access to heating. People outside may suffer from frostbite and/or hypothermia. Exposed pipes may be damaged by freezing conditions.
Lighthouse Mission Ministries provided overnight shelter to 224 men and women Sunday night, Dec. 18, at Base Camp and its overflow shelter run by volunteers from Christ the King Community Church in Bellingham.
“We are thankful for the support of Christ the King Community Church and their many dedicated volunteers who run the overflow shelter on nights like these,” said Hans Erchinger-Davis, president and CEO of Lighthouse Mission Ministries.
“Severe weather like this strains Mission capacity as more people stream out of the woods with more complex needs,” Erchinger-Davis said. “It’s continued motivation to get the new facility off the ground in Old Town, so no one gets turned away.”
Lowland snow accumulations are likely on primary and secondary roadways resulting in travel delays and road closures are likely, according to the weather service.
Areas of significant ice accumulation may result in tree damage, power outages, and difficult air and road travel conditions. Widespread tree and powerline damage could result in power outages that could last several days.
Heavy mountain snow is expected, especially for Snoqualmie and Stevens passes late Monday through Tuesday night with 12-to-20 inches of snow possible. If you’re traveling over the passes on Tuesday, check restriction updates from the Washington State Department of Transportation.
This story was originally published December 19, 2022 at 4:56 PM.
