Wind and rain return to Whatcom County Sunday, bringing minor flooding concerns

WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — Weather forecasters have issued statements pointing to a weather system expected to arrive over northern western Washington Sunday bringing overnight high winds and moderate to heavy rains.

Moderate to heavy precipitation is expected over the Northern and Central Washington Cascades beginning Saturday night and continuing through Tuesday morning. Precipitation amounts of 2 to as much as 5 inches are forecast for this time frame. Snow levels will rise from around 4500 feet Saturday night to 7000 to 7500 feet Monday night. Rivers in the outlook area will begin rising Sunday and will crest later Monday into Tuesday. Current forecasts have numerous rivers cresting in action stage. A small increase in the forecast precipitation amounts could push rivers in the outlook area above flood stage.
– National Weather Service Seattle office (January 9, 2026)

This weather pattern is the result of an “Atmospheric River,” a non-technical term that describes which narrow weather systems made up of strong winds and heavy moisture content in the upper atmosphere. The graphics below reflect the forecasted relative 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.

Click for more information

Forecast graphics for 10pam on Sunday, January 11, 2026.

Forecasts for western Whatcom County lowlands call for a total of 1 to 2 inches of rainfall during Sunday and Monday. Wind gusts up to 45mph are expect late Sunday and early Monday peaking between midnight and 1am.

As of 12:35pm, Saturday, January 10, 2026, the Nooksack River level forecast shows a dramatic increase in the river level cresting on Monday at the upriver gauge locations and Tuesday at the Ferndale location. Crest levels are expected to be close to action levels but not entering minor flood stage range.

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.