Low-lying areas near Nooksack River likely to see minor flooding today (Sun.)

WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — Sunday morning Nooksack River forecasts say to expect minor flooding, a change from much lower expected crest levels during previous forecasts.

A series of warm and wet weather systems have brought heavy rains, both in the lowlands and in the mountains of western Washington. As a result of snow melt and rains, the river level is expected to crest today at or near flood stage at the Saxon Bridge flood gage on the South Fork, at the North Cedarville gage on the Nooksack River and at the Ferndale gage on the Nooksack River.

The latest weather systems are expected to move northward tonight, Sunday, January 28th, bringing the heaviest precipitation to the northern regions of the Olympic Peninsula and Cascades.

The following flood warnings have been issued by the National Weather Service as of 7:50am today.

South Fork Nooksack River at the Saxon Bridge
MINOR FLOODING EXPECTED
The river is expected to crest around flood stage early this morning, before gradually receding below flood stage later today. At 8.0 feet, the Nooksack River floodwaters will inundate much of the low farmlands along the river, with water over some roadways, including potentially Highway 9 north of Acme.

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Nooksack River at North Cedarville
MINOR FLOODING EXPECTED
The river will crest around flood stage late this morning, before gradually dropping below flood stage later today. Another rise is expected around Tuesday, but the river is expected to not rise above flood stage with this next round. At 146.5 feet, the Nooksack River will cause shallow flooding of low pasture lands along the river downstream through Lynden.

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The river forecast for the Ferndale gage also indicates concern for minor flooding although, as of 8:30am, no flood warning has been issued for this area.

Officials with the City of Sumas say large sand-filled tote bags have been placed as a precautionary measure in case the river does overtop in the area of Emerson Road in Everson.

The Whatcom County Division of Emergency Management issued a statement late yesterday expressing concern over the potential for water over roadways in the Ferndale area including Slater Road, Marine Drive and around Marietta neighborhoods.

Reports of water and debris on roads in all parts of the county were being received by the What-Comm 911 Center early this morning.

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River level forecasts can change frequently so motorists and property owners are advised to monitor the Nooksack River level forecast.