Storm Train Gets Going

 Right now, a weak frontal feature is bringing showers to much of the southwest coast. A mere appetizer compared to what's coming up: a week-long deluge of storms. By the end of the upcoming week, up to 3 inches of rain will have fallen in many parts of the region, along with plenty of new snow in the mountains.

 System #1 (Sunday to Monday) - 

On Sunday evening, a vigorous front will find its way up the Washington coastline, bringing heavy rain and mountain snow. 


The front will bring impressive rain totals to much of the area. 2-4 inches for the coast and Olympics, and up to 1.5 inches in much of western Washington. Understandably, the NWS has a hydrologic outlook out for most of the area with concern for river flooding by the end of the week. Snow levels look to be a bit higher so Snoqualmie pass may only pick up a slushy inch or two, but areas with a bit more elevation like Stevens pass may pick up a few inches of new snow with this system. As always, a convergence zone behind the front will bring additional rain/snow to some areas.

System #2 (Wednesday onward) -

An atmospheric river like feature with incredible access to moisture, all the way to the other side of the Pacific, will begin affecting the PNW on Wednesday.



The river feature is clearly visible, extending past Hawaii. Hence why it is often referred to as the "Pineapple Express". This storm won't be as vigorous as the front on Monday, but it will last longer. Up to 5 inches of rain are possible in parts of the coast. In inland western Washington, an additional 1.5-2 inches of rain are possible by the time the rain lets up on Friday. Certainly enough to push some rivers into minor flooding stage. This system will also have lower snow levels so Snoqualmie pass could get in on the action with 6-8 inches of snow possible. More for areas like Stevens pass and the north Cascades. Hopefully this deluge of rain will be enough to get us up to normal on precipitation as we have been behind for this month!  

After this, there are signs of a period of colder weather next weekend onward! Certainly positive signs for an earlier opening to the passes!!

Have a great long weekend!!!


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