WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — Forecasters have been warning of a series weather systems expected to bring wind, rain and, in the higher elevations, snow. The first of these systems arrives today, Friday, December 5, 2025, and others are expected to arrive later next week.
These weather patterns are the result of “Atmospheric Rivers” which are long narrow systems of strong winds and heavy moisture content in the upper atmosphere. The graphics below reflect the forecasted wind speed (yellow/red) and moisture content (blue/yellow/red) of these systems over the next few days as they reach the Puget Sound region.
Forecast for 4am on Friday, December 5, 2025.
Forecast for 10am on Monday, December 8, 2025.
Forecast for 4am on Wednesday, December 10, 2025.
Mixed in with this first system is the expected “King Tides” expected over the weekend.
Currently, the forecast shows some gusty winds (potential gusts of 35 mph) in coastal areas, beginning this afternoon through tomorrow (Saturday) morning from the southwest, and then again Sunday morning from the southeast. The tide will be at a high point when the wind is projected to be the strongest at these times. Predictions are for water heights to be at or slightly below minor flood levels.
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Click for more information– Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management (December 5, 2025)
Concern also includes the potential for surface water flooding and Nooksack River flooding due to the heavy rains.
At this point predictions are for the river levels to remain below action stage at the Saxon and Cedarville gauges, but in action stage and just below minor flooding at Ferndale on Tuesday and Wednesday.
– Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management (December 5, 2025)
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It is typical for debris and water to begin moving onto low-lying roads in Ferndale near the Nooksack River when the river level at Ferndale reaches Action Level. These impacts can be magnified by the saturated soil’s inability to absorb river water that may overflow the riverbanks. Motorists should be alert for closures of low-lying roads near the river including Slater Road, Marine Drive, Barrett Road/Paradise Road and Ferndale Road.
River level forecasts can change frequently so motorists and property owners are advised to monitor the Nooksack River level forecast.
Whatcom News readers are encouraged to stay up to date with current weather alerts and forecasts and air quality readings for their specific Whatcom County locations along with tide tables via the Whatcom News Weather page.
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