PROJECT ALERT NOTICE (WA) Minor to Moderate Flooding in Northwest Washington

Date: Sun, 28 Nov 2021 12:55:48 EST

Summary: A sequence of atmospheric rivers causing minor to moderate flooding in Northwest WA.

A sequence of three Atmospheric Rivers (AR) began impacting Western Washington on Thanksgiving (Nov. 25), the second AR arrived Saturday (Nov. 27), and the third is forecasted to begin Tuesday (Nov. 30). USGS precipitation gauges are reporting a widespread 2-3 inches in the last five days, with some locations reporting 8+ inches. The third AR is currently forecast to add 1-2" inches in the lowlands, 2-4" inches in the Central/Northern Cascades, and localized higher amounts. The Northwest River Forecast Center indicates one station will reach moderate flood stage, 3 minor flood stage, and 12 action stage today through tomorrow. In addition, several more sites are above recent (last two years) high flow measurements.

Two crews (4 people) from the Northwest (Ferndale, WA) Office are in the field today to make repairs, measure flow in the upper end of the stage-discharge ratings, and address cooperator requests. Two sites are currently malfunctioning. Additional information can be found at the links below:

Atmospheric River Information:
https://cw3e.ucsd.edu/

Northwest River Forecast Center:
https://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/rfc/

Sample Media Report:
https://news.yahoo.com/pacific-northwest-faces-threat-more-022243475.html