Atmospheric flooding brings rain, gusty winds and possible flooding to Western Washington

SEATTLE — An atmospheric river is forecast to bring gusty winds, heavy rain and possible flooding to parts of Western Washington this week.

It’s a wet Wednesday, with lingering and more scattered showers on Thursday. Rain has piled up around the region ahead of Wednesday, leading to concerns that the yet-to-fall rain could add to it and potentially bring flooding.

ONE advice on coastal flooding is valid until 16 Wednesday for the Southwest Interior, Tacoma, Hood Canal, Seattle, Bremerton and all areas surrounding those locations. The National Weather Service said flooding is possible along coastlines and low-lying coastal areas.

High tide is at 2 p.m. Wednesday, so the NWS said they would allow extra time as some roads may be closed.

Although high wind warnings and wind advisories expired Wednesday morning, it will still be windy through the afternoon.

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KOMO News Meteorologist Shannon O’Donnell said while wind storms like this are typical this time of year, residents should prepare for possible tree damage and power outages overnight.

With heavy rain in the forecast, the NWS issued flash flood watches and warnings for several areas of Western Washington. From Wednesday morning, a flood watch was issued for parts of Clallam County until Wednesday evening.

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The NWS also issued one flood warning for the Skokomish River in Mason County until Friday morning. The river is expected to reach flood stage this week as 3 to 5 inches of heavy rain is in the forecast. Residents are encouraged not to attempt to drive around barricades or drive through flooded areas.

While steady rain is forecast in the lowlands, O’Donnell said steady snow is piling up over the mountains. A winter storm warning remains in effect for areas of the North Cascades as 1 to 2 feet of snow is expected near Mount Baker between Tuesday and Thursday.

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The lower passes should remain easily passable for now, especially Snoqualmie Pass, which will lean wet rather than white.

Large waves have also been pounding ocean beaches all week, and combined with the upcoming high tide, O’Donnell said this area of ​​low pressure could lure water high enough to lead to shoreline flooding, especially along the central coast. Those heading to the beaches to watch the storm should watch the crashing and dirty seas from a safe distance as dangerous sneaker waves are possible.

Wednesday afternoon is expected to be unsettled and showery, but some of the showers will include hail, thunder and lightning. Overall, it will be a mess near Emerald City!

Thursday and Friday will mark a period of calmer weather, with the remaining showers losing strength and the sunshine becoming more numerous.

Friday is expected to be mostly dry and partly sunny across much of the Puget Sound region. Highs will start to cool as we go and we’ll drop closer to 50 in Seattle by the end of the week.

However, there is not much stormy weather for the rest of November, as the rain and wind will strike again this weekend.

Strong storms and wind can cause downed power lines and power outages. The Washington State Department of Health offers residents several tips on how to prepare and stay safe during a power outage.

Use this connection to find information about what to do before and during a power outage.