Wintery weather forecast for Whatcom County beginning this weekend and continuing into next week

WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — Computer weather forecast models are beginning to show potential for snow, especially in the higher elevations of the Cascades but to some extent also in the lowlands of Whatcom County and other parts of western Washington.

A rather potent front is expected during this period [Saturday through Tuesday], with heavier lowland rain, mountain snow, and breezy winds on Sunday for western Washington. NBM suggests approximately 40% chance of 12″ of snow for Snoqualmie Pass and 80% for Stevens Pass during the 24-hour period ending 0400 Monday. Onshore flow will then increase Sunday night into Monday with colder air aloft associated with the upper trough. Precipitation is also expected to become more convective Sunday night into Monday, which may lower snow levels towards the surface during this period, allowing for at least a rain/snow mix in areas of the lowlands. Furthermore, ensemble guidance suggests another system may impact the area on Tuesday, however uncertainty increases into the middle of next week. National Weather Service Seattle office (February 21, 2024)

Current short-term weather forecasts, as of Wednesday, February 21st, are for high temperatures in the low 50s and low temperatures in the low 40s. About 5-degrees warmer than normal for this time of year.

But long-term forecasts call for high temperatures to drop into the low 40s and low temperatures to around freezing late this weekend and into next week. Precipitation is expected to accompany the drops in temperatures, thus presenting an increased probability of frozen precipitation near sea level. Current forecasts for western Whatcom County call for a mix of snow and rain during the evenings and early mornings.

Confidence in weather forecasts more than 3 days out drops significantly.

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.