Atmospheric River Hits Northwest with Rain and Snow

The Northwest braces for rounds of heavy rain and mountain snow as atmospheric river moves into the region today. This major weather system will bring wet conditions to many areas. People living in the area need to prepare for intense storm conditions now.

What is an atmospheric river weather event?

An atmospheric river is a long and narrow band of dense moisture that travels high up in the air. These powerful storms can carry huge amounts of water vapor from the warm ocean regions near the equator. When this wet air reaches the land, it gets pushed up over mountains and dumps endless rain and deep snow.

This big storm system is moving directly into the Northwest region today. It will not just bring a simple shower. Instead, it will bring heavy atmospheric river storms that repeat over several days. This means some locations will see massive amounts of water in a very short time.

What weather can you expect from this storm?

People living in the lower valleys can expect endless streams of heavy rain. Streets could quickly fill with deep water as storm drains get overwhelmed by the relentless rainfall. Drivers should slow down on highways because sudden deep puddles make driving extremely dangerous for everyone.

Up in the high mountains, cold air will transform all that heavy rain into thick snow. Travelers planning to drive through mountain passes will face severe winter conditions. Here are the main weather events hitting the region right now:

• Heavy rain: Lowland places will deal with non-stop rain for many hours.
• Mountain snow: High elevation areas will get hit with heavy snow totals.
• Rounds of storms: Multiple waves of wet weather will move through back to back.

How should you prepare for heavy rain and snow?

You can do a few basic things at home to stay safe during this continuous bad weather. Clear out your gutters and check your local storm drains to make sure rainwater can flow away freely. Keep a flash light and extra batteries nearby in case high winds or heavy rain cause power outages in your town.

If you plan to travel across high mountain areas, make sure your car has full winter supplies. Pack warm clothes, food, water, and tire chains before you leave your house. It is best to stay home if you do not have to travel while this wet weather system moves across the land.

What to watch for as the storms continue?

Pay close attention to local weather reports on your TV or radio as conditions change. The continuous heavy rain can quickly cause small streams and big rivers to rise past their normal banks. Landslides are also possible on steep dirt hillsides that get soaked with too much water.

This atmospheric river storm will last for a while, so keep checking back for local weather updates. Make sure your family and neighbors know what is coming so everyone stays dry and safe. We will continue to share news about this huge wet storm as it moves across the area.