Flooding Concerns, Potential Weekend Snow In Washington

SEATTLE, WA — A reliably wet January will make a predictably soggy exit as another storm pattern settles into our region and makes itself at home through the weekend. If the forecast holds, many of us may even get a shot at some lowland snow to kick off February.

FLOODING CONCERNS

The National Weather Service said some rivers could reach flood stage by Friday night, and moderate to major flooding may be possible into the weekend, depending on the location of the heaviest precipitation.

A flood watch will be in effect for most of Western Washington between Friday afternoon and Sunday morning. According to NWS Seattle, rivers in King County and northward will be the most at-risk for major flooding. Forecasters said heavy rainfall may also cause periods of urban flooding and road ponding.

HIGH WINDS

Wind gusts are expected to pick up across the region starting Friday morning and continuing until Saturday. Gusts from Everett to Tacoma are forecast to max out at 25 to 30 mph, while winds along the Strait and north of Everett could reach much higher.

LOWLAND SNOW CHANCES & COLD FRONT

The weekend brings Puget Sound its first chance in a couple weeks to see some flurries in the lowlands, as snow levels rapidly fall below 1,000 feet Saturday night into Sunday morning. Forecasters said lowland accumulations are generally expected to less than 1 inch. Details on exact snow amounts, timing and likely locations have not been finalized. According to NWS Seattle, a rain/snow mix will be possible in many lowland areas until Monday morning. A second chance of snow may arrive Tuesday morning.