Soggy Weekend in the Forecast, with a Brief Respite on Sunday

Current Conditions and Friday’s Forecast

Brace yourselves for a wet and dreary Friday, folks! Rain is currently drenching our region and is expected to stick around for the next couple of days. Commuters, be prepared for a chilly and damp morning with temperatures hovering in the 40s throughout the day. Strong easterly winds, gusting up to 25-30 mph, will add an extra layer of discomfort to your journey. Unfortunately, there’s no respite from the steady rainfall; it’s here to stay for the day.

Saturday’s Weather Outlook

Saturday brings a glimmer of hope amidst the gloomy forecast. We can expect a temporary break from the rain around midday, offering a brief window of relief. Temperatures will also rise thanks to warmer air flowing in from the southwest, reaching the mid to upper 50s in the lowlands. However, this warming trend comes with a caveat: higher snow levels. The snowpack at Cascade Passes above 8,000 feet is likely to be affected, making it more susceptible to avalanches. Additionally, significant runoff from rainfall and melting snow is anticipated, though river flooding is currently not a concern.

Sunday’s Forecast and Rainfall Totals

Sunday brings a much-needed change of pace. The rain is expected to subside by morning, paving the way for a mostly dry and warm afternoon. Temperatures in the lowlands are predicted to reach the low 60s, creating a spring-like atmosphere. This brief respite from the wet weather will be welcomed by many.

As for rainfall totals, they’re expected to be significant between Friday and Sunday morning. The wettest areas will be the coast, Coast Range, and Cascades, especially on western-facing mountain slopes. Rainfall totals could reach a whopping 2.5-4 inches in these regions, while the western valleys may receive around 1.5-2.5 inches. This substantial rainfall will effectively conclude the month of January, leaving us with a soggy start to the new year.

Outlook for Next Week

The weather forecast for the upcoming week is a bit uncertain, leaving us with a mix of sun and showers. Monday is expected to remain dry and mild, with a slight chance of a few showers in the evening. Tuesday and Wednesday, however, might bring wetter conditions, so keep your umbrellas handy.

Conclusion

In summary, be prepared for a wet and chilly Friday, a brief break in the rain on Saturday, and a dry and warm Sunday. Significant rainfall is expected over the weekend, especially in coastal and mountainous areas. The forecast for the upcoming week is less certain, but Monday is likely to be dry, with potential showers later in the week. Stay tuned to local weather updates for the latest information.