The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Flood Watch today, October 29th, for several western Washington counties, including Whatcom, from Friday night to Sunday afternoon.
A wet pattern will develop Friday and continue into Saturday. Rain will be heavy at times, especially over the mountains. 4 to 8 inches of rain is likely over the mountains for the 48 hour period covering Friday and Saturday with locally higher amounts possible. This will cause sharp rises on area rivers. Minor flooding is possible on some area rivers by Saturday morning and flooding concerns for area rivers will continue into Sunday.
The current forecast for the Nooksack River level at Main Street in Ferndale shows it cresting about noon on Sunday at about 15 feet. Minor flooding typically happens when the river reaches 17 feet. But a sudden increase in flow from the mountains and ground saturation can cause water over roads near creeks and streams. Drivers are advised to be alert for the potential for water and debris on roadways this weekend.