EVERETT — Meteorologists predicted an increased chance of “moderate to major” flooding this week as Snohomish County prepared for heavy rain.
According to the National Weather Service, an atmospheric river pattern is expected to redevelop Monday night into Tuesday, bringing with it heavy rainfall and occasional windy conditions to much of western Washington.
Anywhere from 2 to 4 inches of rain were expected in Snohomish County Monday and Tuesday. Everett could see up to 2 inches of rain, while in east county, Darrington and Gold Bar could see up to 4 inches of rain during that time.
The National Weather Service issued a flood watch for much of Western Washington, including Island and Snohomish counties.
On Tuesday night, the Snohomish River in Snohomish was expected to crest close to “major” flood stage, at 29.15 feet, about 4 feet above a typical flood stage.
Street flooding is possible in the lowlands. Meteorologists warned residents near Monroe and Snohomish to be ready for flooding as a result of the Snohomish River cresting.
The Skykomish and Stillaguamish rivers could also approach the flooding threshold, said Dev McMillian, a meteorologist for the weather service.
“Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action,” McMillian said.
Gusty winds, potentially peaking at 40 mph in Everett, were expected to last until Monday night, meteorologists said.
Live river conditions and road closures can be found at Snohomish County’s flood safety hub. The flood watch expires late Wednesday as rivers are expected to recede. By the weekend, meteorologists expect a break in the storm.
Heavy snowfall and warming temperatures have also created “very dangerous avalanche conditions” in the Cascades, according to the weather service. The Northwest Avalanche Center had large swaths of the Cascades under a level 4 threat for an avalanche.
While there was no concern for widespread coastal flooding, there was potential for high surf Tuesday, according to the weather service.
Flooding isn’t an uncommon occurrence in Snohomish County. Last year, Highway 529 closed as heavy rain hit Everett. Flooding also closed Marine View Drive.
In Stanwood, dikes over a century old are the last bastion of protection from rising flood waters. In 2021, a gaping hole formed in the dike west of town, threatening to drown 2,200 acres of farmland. If the dikes broke, seawater would stretch out to Pioneer Highway, fully engulfing the small city. In March, Snohomish County announced a $2 million grant toward renovating the dikes. The repairs are slated to begin next year.
When speedy winds combine with wet foliage in utility lines, power outages are also a possibility. To report an outage, go to outagemap.snopud.com. Reports can also be made via phone at 425-783-1001. If it’s an emergency, dial 911.
Jonathan Tall: 425-339-3486; jonathan.tall@heraldnet.com; Twitter: @snocojon.
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