Key Takeaways:
- An atmospheric river is expected to bring heavy rain and flooding to Western Washington, with 2-3 inches of rain forecasted for Seattle and 5 or more inches for the Cascades.
- Major river flooding and landslides are possible, with several rivers expected to crest above major flood stage, including the Skykomish, Puyallup, Snoqualmie, Cowlitz, and Skagit rivers.
- Residents in flood-prone areas are advised to be prepared for high water and potential landslides, and to avoid driving through standing water.
- The National Weather Service has issued a flood forecast, with the heaviest rainfall expected west of the Cascades and Olympics.
- King, Snohomish, Pierce, Skagit, and Lewis counties are expected to be heavily affected by the flooding.
Introduction to Atmospheric Rivers
An atmospheric river is a plume of moisture that rolls in from the subtropical Pacific Ocean, bringing with it heavy rain and potential flooding. The one currently barreling towards Western Washington is expected to bring days of rain and gloom, with the National Weather Service forecasting 2-3 inches of rain from Monday to Wednesday in Seattle. The Cascades, on the other hand, are expected to receive 5 or more inches of rain, causing rivers to swell as the water makes its way downstream to Puget Sound.
Flood Forecast and River Levels
The flood forecast has slightly intensified, with several rivers expected to crest above major flood stage. The Skykomish River near Gold Bar is expected to crest inches over major flood stage by 10 p.m. Monday, while the Puyallup River near Orting is expected to crest a record flow of 21,500 cubic feet per second around 4 a.m. Wednesday. The Snoqualmie River at Snoqualmie Falls is expected to hit a high-water mark about a foot over major flood stage at 4 a.m. Tuesday, and the Cowlitz River at Packwood is expected to rise to inches over major flood stage around 4 a.m. Tuesday. Residents in flood-prone areas are advised to be prepared for high water and potential landslides.
Preparations and Warnings
Residents in flood-prone communities, including Index, Gold Bar, Sultan, Monroe, Snohomish, Granite Falls, Arlington, Silvana, and Stanwood, are advised to be prepared for high water, particularly starting Monday and lasting into mid-week. Scott North, spokesperson for the Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management, encouraged people to be vigilant for roads blocked by debris and to never attempt to drive through standing water. The National Weather Service has also warned of an elevated risk for landslides due to the heavier rainfall runoff, with winds expected to increase Monday morning and gusts topping 45 mph around Puget Sound.
Landslide Risks and Emergency Preparedness
Given the higher snow levels and wet soil conditions, the risk of landslides is elevated. Sheri Badger, spokesperson for King County’s Office of Emergency Management, said that officials are working with the state and city leaders to prepare for the floods, but there’s only so much they can do to prevent landslides. King County offers free sandbags throughout the county, and the County’s Flood Warning Center will open on Monday. Residents can find more information on sandbag locations and flood warnings on the King County Flood Services webpage or by calling 206-296-8200 or toll-free 800-945-9263.
Conclusion and Final Preparations
In conclusion, the atmospheric river barreling towards Western Washington is expected to bring heavy rain and flooding, with major river flooding and landslides possible. Residents in flood-prone areas are advised to be prepared for high water and potential landslides, and to avoid driving through standing water. The National Weather Service has issued a flood forecast, and residents can find more information on flood warnings and emergency preparedness on the King County Flood Services webpage or by calling the Flood Warning Center. By being prepared and staying informed, residents can help keep themselves and their communities safe during this period of heavy rain and flooding.