Flood watch issued as rain soaks Whatcom County. Here’s how to prepare
Heavy rains are lifting water levels in Whatcom County, spurring fears of flooding.
An atmospheric river-fueled storm is set to soak the region over the next few days, according to the National Weather Service.
More than 30 roads in Whatcom County have either closed or have water on the roadway, according to Whatcom County Public Works.
Estimates from the Northwest River Forecast Center show the Nooksack River rising to just above flood stage on Friday and Saturday in Ferndale.
Flooding is also expected along the Skagit River in Mount Vernon and Concrete due to melting snow from the North Cascades, The Bellingham Herald previously reported.
The heavy rains coincide with Flood Safety Awareness Week, which runs through Saturday, March 21.
There are steps you can take now to prepare for flooding in Western Washington.
Flood watch issued for Bellingham, Whatcom County
On Wednesday, March 18, the National Weather Service issued a flood watch for parts of Whatcom, King, Skagit and Snohomish counties.
“Flooding caused by excessive rainfall” is possible in communities including Bellingham, Seattle, Anacortes, Edmonds, Everett, Lynnwood, Marysville, Mount Vernon and Sedro-Woolley, the weather service said.
The flood watch will remain in effect through Friday afternoon.
“Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams and other low-lying and flood-prone locations,” the weather service said in its flood watch, while “high snow levels, heavy rainfall and snowmelt runoff” could raise local rivers.
What’s the difference between flood watch and warning?
The National Weather Service issues a flood watch “when conditions are favorable for a specific hazardous weather event” — such as flooding — to occur, The Herald previously reported.
A flood warning is issued when “conditions are favorable for flooding,” the weather service explained on its website. “It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.”
In cases when a “specific weather event” in the forecast “may become a nuisance,” the weather agency said, it issues a flood advisory.
Is my Whatcom County home at risk of flooding?
To see if you live in a flood-risk area, you can type your address into the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s flood map service center.
“Flooding can happen just about anywhere it rains or snows,” federal officials said.
How can I prepare for floods?
Before a flood, there are a few steps you can take “protect your home, family and financial security,” according to FloodSmart.org, a website run by FEMA and the National Flood Insurance Program.
Here’s what to do, according to FloodSmart.org and the Washington State Department of Health:
- Understand your risk: Look up your address to learn you live, work or travel in areas that are at higher risk for flooding.
- Get flood insurance: The National Flood Insurance Program can help you find an insurance provider.
- Prepare your home: Call your local building department or emergency management office for info.
- Prepare your documents: Store birth certificates, passports and other important documents in a safe, dry place.
- Take photos or video of your valuables: Store in a safe, waterproof place.
- Plan for evacuation: Decide where you are going and the route you’ll follow.
- Stay informed: Monitor your radio, television and the internet for reports of flood danger.
- Keep your car filled with gas.
This story was originally published March 18, 2026 at 3:28 PM.