Area roadways in Ferndale are flooded due to an atmospheric river dumping rain on the region. (PNW Daily staff)
WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — A flood watch is in effect across Western Washington as rivers including the Nooksack and Skagit Rivers rise toward flood stage.
An atmospheric river continues to bring steady rainfall across northwest Washington, increasing the risk of minor flooding, road closures, and water over roadways.
Officials say this is not expected to reach the scale of past major floods, but conditions remain active and can change quickly.
Nooksack River Rising Near Ferndale And Sumas
The National Weather Service forecasts the Nooksack River could reach minor flood stage in Ferndale as early as Thursday afternoon.
Water levels near Sumas are also rising and may approach action stage by Friday.
Emergency officials report early impacts already, including water pooling on roads and low-lying areas across Whatcom County.
Skagit County Flooding Impacts Farmland And Low Areas
In Skagit County, flooding is already affecting farmland and drainage systems.
Water from smaller rivers and tributaries, including the Samish River, has spread into agricultural fields across the Skagit Valley.
The Skagit River is expected to crest below major flood levels, with higher water forecast near Concrete and Mount Vernon into the weekend.
Whatcom County Monitoring Road Closures And Flooded Areas
Whatcom County Public Works crews are actively monitoring roads as conditions change.
Crews are placing “Water Over Roadway” and “Road Closed” signs where flooding is present.
Drivers can check current road closures and restrictions here:
https://www.whatcomcounty.us/m/newsflash/home/detail/5257
Residents can sign up for real-time alerts here:
https://www.whatcomcounty.us/list.aspx?ListID=455
Safety Tips For Flooded Roads In Whatcom County
Officials urge drivers to slow down and use caution:
- Avoid driving through standing water
- Leave extra space between vehicles
- Keep headlights on
- Brake gently to prevent hydroplaning
- Do not drive around “Road Closed” signs
Even shallow water can stall vehicles or wash them off the roadway.
Atmospheric River Driving Flood Risk In Northwest Washington
The current flood risk is driven by a multi-day atmospheric river event.
The system is bringing heavy rain, rising snow levels, and increased runoff into rivers across Whatcom and Skagit counties.
Officials are also monitoring for:
- Landslides
- Flooded rural roads
- Rapid changes in river levels
What To Expect Next
Rain is expected to ease heading into the weekend, which should limit the overall flood threat.
However, rivers may continue rising even after rainfall slows.
Residents in flood-prone areas should continue monitoring conditions and avoid flooded roadways.
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