Western Washington is preparing for another severe storm following historic flooding last week. Forecasters warn of heavy rain through Thursday, which may worsen flooding before conditions improve over the weekend.
Rain will intensify from late morning Tuesday, with strong winds expected during the evening commute. Meteorologists predict gusts up to 50 mph and rainfall exceeding one inch in lowlands, increasing to three inches in mountainous areas.
Rivers that swelled after Monday’s rain are forecast to rise again through Wednesday. This creates significant flood risks, especially given already saturated soils and elevated water levels.
Winter storm warnings have been issued for the Cascade and Olympic Mountains. Snowfall is expected to replace rain in higher elevations by Wednesday, with over a foot of snow predicted at Snoqualmie Pass and up to three feet near Mount Baker.
Emergency responses continue as officials address recent flood damage. On Tuesday, a breach of the temporary flood barrier on the White River forced immediate evacuations under a Flash Flood Warning. Sandbags are being deployed, and the Army Corps of Engineers is collaborating with King County to assess damage.
Earlier, a desimone levee breach along the Green River in Tukwila caused evacuations and industrial flooding. Although the flood warning has been lifted, repairs remain ongoing.
Skagit County remains on alert with a Level 2 Flood Watch until Thursday afternoon. The Skagit River is also under a Flood Warning, impacting communities in Mount Vernon and Concrete. Residents near Eriksen Road have been ordered to evacuate due to landslide threats.
Cleanup continues in Snohomish where floodwaters have receded but river levels remain dangerously high. Officials warn the Snohomish River may approach major flood stage again through Friday.
Transportation routes sustain severe damage. State Route 2 across Stevens Pass remains closed due to flood and mudslide impacts. State Route 167 and Highway 410 also face closures related to erosion and flooding damage.
Geologists and officials from the U.S. Geological Survey and Washington Department of Natural Resources express concern about increased landslide risks along highways this week. Monitoring efforts focus strongly on Interstate 5 and areas near Mukilteo and Skagit County.
Residents are urged to stay informed and comply with evacuation orders as Western Washington faces ongoing flood and storm hazards over the next several days.
Read more at: komonews.com
