A recent Newsweek article reports that parts of the Pacific Northwest face a growing threat of widespread flooding and severe weather next week, based on the National Weather Service’s latest forecast.
The most urgent flood concern is in western Washington. According to the forecast, a series of atmospheric rivers is set to bring heavy rain beginning Sunday and continuing through the following week. The system, described as a Pineapple Express, is expected to carry moisture from Hawaii eastward into Washington and parts of Oregon.
Local news outlets have reported projected rainfall totals of 3 to 5 inches across the Puget Sound region. In addition, some coastal and mountainous locations could receive between 6 and 10 inches. Meteorologist George Waldenberger of KOMO said the heaviest rainfall is forecast for Monday night into Tuesday, and then again on Wednesday. He noted that these periods increase the likelihood of both urban flooding and river flooding. He also said heavy rainfall could trigger landslides, meaning flooding is not the only hazard facing the region.
Waldenberger emphasized that atmospheric rivers are common weather events, but higher intensity systems can create serious impacts. He explained that large atmospheric rivers can transport as much as 15 times the water content of the Mississippi River. He also said that most of the moisture remains below 10,000 feet, and that atmospheric rivers account for an estimated 30 to 50 percent of West Coast rainfall overall. Waldenberger pointed to an intensity scale based on how much water vapor these systems transport and how long that transport lasts. He added that category four and five atmospheric rivers on this scale are typically the most harmful.
The National Weather Service map referenced in the article shows areas at risk of flooding along the West Coast as the atmospheric river approaches. The article states that heavy rain and flood risks will likely peak Monday through Wednesday in western Washington. River levels may crest in the middle of next week.
Local authorities may issue flood warnings or evacuations if river systems overflow. Meanwhile, the article says residents in affected states should monitor National Weather Service updates, make preparedness plans, and avoid unnecessary travel during high-risk periods.
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