National Weather Service issues high-wind warning for midweek in Whatcom County lowlands
Bellingham and western Whatcom County are facing a high-wind warning as a blustery storm brings lowland rain and mountain snow through Thursday.
Southeast winds at 30-40 mph with gusts to 55 mph are possible for the Whatcom County lowlands, according to the National Weather Service in Seattle.
“Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines,” the weather service reported. “Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. People should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches. If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows.”
Winds will be strongest north of Everett on Tuesday night, including western Whatcom and Skagit counties and the San Juan Islands. Winds will ease gradually through Wednesday morning.
A gale warning is in effect for coastal Whatcom County, warning of southeast winds at 30 to 40 knots.
“Moderate to heavy rain will spread inland this afternoon and evening, with the bulk of the moisture centered over the Olympics and Cascades,” the weather service said.
About 1.5 inches of ran was forecast for the lowlands.
But flooding concerns for the Nooksack River have eased, with current data from the Northwest River Center showing a crest in Ferndale above the “action stage” of 15 feet, but below the flood stage of 18 feet.
In the mountains, snow levels were expected between 4,000 to 5,500, with heavy snow possible for parts of the North Cascades through Thursday. A winter storm warning predicts snow accumulations of 12-24 inches above 4,000 feet.
This story was originally published November 12, 2024 at 11:59 AM.
