WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — The National Weather Service Seattle office has issued a gale warning from 6pm today, Thursday, November 9th, through 1am on Friday. The winds are forecast to be southeast from 25 to 35 knots with wind waves of 3 to 5 feet. Winds are expected to ease up overnight, then shift to southwest Friday.
Winds from the southwest could bring coastal impacts. The coastal areas of Whatcom County that are expected to have the strongest winds include Point Roberts, the Lummi Peninsula, Sandy Point, Birch Point and Point Whitehorn.
This is the first fall storm that may have impacts on the coast of Whatcom County. Residents with boats in marinas should take preemptive actions to secure their vessels. People living on the coast should be prepared for high winds. There are two periods of potential concern, over Thursday night, then again over Friday night. Peak wind gusts each night may reach 40-50 kts from the southeast.
Coastal communities in Whatcom County may see minor impacts from tidal effects as the expected storm surge tide is about ½ foot.
Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management (November 9, 2023)
- Boaters should use extra caution in these conditions and vessels in Marinas in Whatcom County should be checked to ensure lines are secure.
- Loose objects such as lawn furniture and garbage cans should be secured.
- Drivers and persons on the beaches should always be cautious along low lying coastal roads and beaches particularly in Birch Bay, Blaine, Sandy Point, and Lummi Island.