The National Weather Service in Seattle has kept a flood watch firmly in place, warning of potential deluges as a pair of atmospheric rivers hammer the region through Tuesday, according to the latest forecast. Residents are braced for heavy rains that are expected to continue from Sunday morning into Monday with additional downpours slamming into the state right on through until Tuesday, this unrelenting natural onslaught is anticipated to send area rivers teetering perilously close to flood stage starting Monday.
In a statement released early Sunday, officials have indicated "Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations" and King, Lewis, Pierce, Snohomish, Mason, and Skagit counties are all under scrutiny as creeks and streams may rise beyond their banks, sewers may fill beyond their capacity, streets can become waterways in minutes. In addition to the threat of swelling rivers, urban areas may face localized flooding due to poor drainage systems struggling under the persistent rainfall.
The Seattle weather update indicates a relentless wave of wet weather with predictions calling for up to half an inch of rain possible by the end of Sunday night, and similar amounts expected throughout Monday, as a stubbornly active weather pattern holds its grip on the Pacific Northwest. Highs are rumored to hover near the 60-degree mark while gusty winds are also part of the mix, potentially escalating the hazard in areas already saturated by persistent rains.
Following a soggy weekend, the forecast grudgingly concedes to drier conditions, envisioning a respite beginning mid-week, it promises a shift with Wednesday showing mostly sunny skies and a significant rise in temperatures, from a moist and chilly near 60 to a more inviting and dry 68 degrees. But for now, Seattleites are urged to remain cautious and vigilant; those in flood-prone regions are advised to be ready to act swiftly should water levels rise and the need to evacuate become imminent. All updates and safety information can be found on the NWS Seattle's official website.
