Winter storms approaching

17-19NovPredictedRainfall

17-19 November Predicted Rainfall

Small craft advisories and gale watches have been issued for coastal areas of Washington and Oregon, and the first in a series of storm systems will affect the Pacific Coast in the next few days.

Heavy rain and mountain snow are expected with this system, along with strong winds along the coast. Moderate rain should develop along the Pacific Northwest and Western coasts by Saturday evening.

Chances of rain in the area will increase to 80 percent by Sunday and 70 percent by Monday and Monday night.

Floods are the most common and costly natural hazard in the U.S., and the results of flooding can be devastating. While some floods develop over time, flash floods, particularly common after wildfires, can occur within minutes after the onset of a rainstorm. Even areas that are not traditionally flood prone are at risk after wildfires.

Remember, the fire emergency doesn’t end when the smoke clears. NOW is the time to prepare for post-fire flooding. Check our Flood Watch page and our Updates page for current and predicted weather conditions. The Washington State Department of Ecology also has River & Stream Flow Monitoring information online.