WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — As the second of a series of 3 atmospheric rivers continues to drop heavy rain throughout Whatcom County today, November 28th, the forecast for the Nooksack River levels at some gauge stations has been revised to slightly lower levels.
The 6am forecast update dropped the expected crest levels at the following key gauge locations.
- Saxon Bridge – reduced from 8.4 feet, “Moderate Flood Stage,” to 7.3 feet, below “Minor Flood Stage”
- Cedarville – reduced from over 148 feet, “Moderate Flood Stage,” to 147 feet, “Minor Flood Stage”
- Ferndale – reduced from over 21.5 feet, “Moderate Flood Stage,” to 19.8 feet, “Minor Flood Stage”
The challenge of forecasting the flood impacts remains due to damage to the levee system from the recent mid-November flood event. There is uncertainty with how changes to the river channel and damages to the levee system may change the impacts compared with what would otherwise be expected. As a result, confidence in typical flood impacts is not high.
In addition to river flooding impacts, overflowing stream and creeks continue to pose a danger to property and are causing road closures throughout the county.
River level forecasts can change frequently so drivers and property owners are advised to continue to monitor the Nooksack River level forecast.