Key Takeaways:
- A powerful atmospheric river is expected to bring heavy rain and flooding to the Pacific Northwest, with multiple rivers predicted to reach major flood stage.
- The Skagit River is expected to shatter record highs, with predicted river levels severe and near-record flooding.
- A flood watch is in effect for much of the Puget Sound region through Friday afternoon, with residents advised to stay safe and informed.
- Multiple roads and highways are closed due to flooding, including Highway 203, Highway 202, and Highway 4.
- Emergency shelters have been set up in Snohomish County, and residents are advised to stay off river trails and avoid driving through flooded roads.
Introduction to the Storm
The Pacific Northwest is bracing for a second, stronger surge of subtropical moisture set to arrive Tuesday night and into early Wednesday. Overnight Monday into Tuesday, the first pulse of a powerful atmospheric river drenched Western Washington, leaving soils soaked and rivers swollen. The region remains on high alert for rising river levels, flooding, clogged storm drains, and even landslides. A flood watch will remain in effect for much of the Puget Sound region through Friday afternoon. Residents are advised to grab their rain gear, leave extra time for commuting, and keep an eye on rivers and drains.
Emergency Response Efforts
The Town of Concrete, which sits along the Skagit River, is preparing for likely historic floods. Mayor Marla Reed said crews are keeping a close eye on the dams around the city, and sandbags are available for residents. The Washington State Emergency Operations Center was elevated to a Level 1 activation, the highest level of activation, due to the ongoing rain and wind. The center is in constant contact with local emergency managers and is closely monitoring weather impacts. The State Emergency Operations Center is working with local communities to provide support and resources as needed.
Flooding and Road Closures
Multiple roads and highways are closed due to flooding, including Highway 203, Highway 202, and Highway 4. The Skagit River is expected to shatter record highs, with predicted river levels severe and near-record flooding. The river is expected to reach major flood stage by Wednesday afternoon, rising aggressively until a peak around 4 a.m. Thursday. The city of Snohomish has declared a state of emergency due to major flooding in the area, and residents are advised to stay safe and informed. The Snoqualmie River has reached its highest water level in a decade, with major flooding expected to continue through Wednesday.
Preparations and Safety Tips
Residents are advised to stay off river trails and avoid driving through flooded roads. The city of Seattle is urging drivers to use caution on the roads, with multiple crashes reported due to flooding. The Seattle Department of Transportation is advising drivers to give themselves extra stopping distance and take things slow, as even a few inches of standing water can stall a vehicle. Seattle Public Utilities is encouraging people to sign up for Alert Seattle, clear drains of leaf and debris, and call the agency’s 24/7 operations response center if they see urgent flooding or sewer backups.
Weather Forecast
The National Weather Service is predicting that the lowlands will see about two inches of rain throughout the day on Wednesday, with the mountains receiving four to five inches. The Cascades could get six inches of rain, but it is unclear if daily records will be broken anywhere. The streak of rain is expected to begin to clear on Thursday, lasting just for the morning, with the lowlands getting about a half to three-quarters of an inch and the mountains getting one to three inches.
Conclusion
The Pacific Northwest is facing a severe flooding event, with multiple rivers predicted to reach major flood stage. Residents are advised to stay safe and informed, with emergency shelters set up in Snohomish County and multiple roads and highways closed due to flooding. The region is expected to experience heavy rain and flooding through Wednesday, with the National Weather Service predicting severe and near-record flooding in some areas. It is essential for residents to take necessary precautions and follow the instructions of local authorities to ensure their safety.