Last weekend, November 14th and 15th, the Nooksack River and adjacent creeks and streams overflowed their banks in the Ferndale area causing minor flooding and a few road closures. The Nooksack River crested at about 17.5 feet during that event. Another flood event is expected this week with the river forecast to crest at close to 20 feet.
The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch again this week warning that due to heavy local and mountain rains, the Nooksack River and other streams and creeks are expected to rise even more. The forecast for the Nooksack River puts it over flood stage (19 feet) on Wednesday. November 18th. It will pass 17 feet, the point where minor flooding can be expected, on Tuesday and not return to below that level until Thursday.
Drivers can expect to encounter water and debris over roadways near the Nooksack river and other streams and creeks. Ferndale area roads, including Marine Drive, Slater Road, Paradise Road at Barrett Road and Hovander Road at W Smith Road, can be expected to be closed during this flood event.
Public land and parks adjacent to the river are likely to be closed during the flood event as well.
Very high winds (75 MPH gusts are possible) are also forecast for Tuesday evening and into Wednesday. Property owners should be prepared as the combination of flooding and high winds may lead to property damage.