Atmospheric Rivers Set to Hit the Pacific Northwest
November tends to be the wettest month in the Pacific Northwest, and it appears that’s right on schedule as a series of atmospheric river storms are forecasted for the first full week.
This month has already been quite intense. Earlier atmospheric river storms caused significant rainfall, with effects lingering even on Saturday from a system that had previously drenched the region on Halloween, resulting in rising river levels.
Mountain areas saw over 2 inches of rain, and there’s an inch more on the way. A flood watch that was in effect has now been lifted, according to reports. It’s worth noting, though, that the storm from the beginning of November has moved out, leaving room for more storms to develop soon as the Pacific keeps producing active weather patterns.
Starting early next week, a strong low-pressure system will make its way across the Gulf of Alaska, gradually shifting east toward Canada. In a manner similar to the earlier storm, this system will transport moisture from the Pacific Ocean into the Pacific Northwest by late Tuesday night.
The impending atmospheric river is projected to have considerable strength as it approaches the Pacific Coast. Areas along the Oregon coast are expected to experience the most intense rainfall. As of now, forecasts indicate that this storm will hit a Level 5 on the atmospheric river scale, particularly affecting parts of Oregon.
By Wednesday, the coastlines of Oregon and Washington are anticipated to receive the heaviest downpours, with expectations of three to five inches of rain between Tuesday and Thursday. The Olympic Mountains could see even more, ranging from five to eight inches.
In addition, one to two inches of rain may lead to flooding from southern Oregon down to northern California. Flash flooding is a distinct possibility as the heaviest rains slowly progress along the coastline, particularly into Wednesday afternoon. With projections suggesting the likelihood of another atmospheric river storm later in the week or into the next weekend, it seems there’s no break in the wet weather on the horizon.
