Seattle, Wash. – Heavy rain linked to an atmospheric river is already moving into western Washington, with flooding concerns building tonight that could impact the Wednesday morning commute across the Seattle metro.
According to the National Weather Service in Seattle, a steady plume of Pacific moisture will remain locked over the region through Friday, producing prolonged rainfall and rising river levels. A “slight risk” area for excessive rainfall covers much of the I-5 corridor, including Seattle, Everett, and Olympia, with isolated higher-risk zones near the Cascades.
Rain will fall consistently through tonight and into Wednesday, increasing the risk of ponding on roadways and reduced visibility during peak travel hours. Low-lying and poor-drainage areas, especially near the Snohomish and Skagit river basins, could begin to see minor flooding impacts by Wednesday afternoon.
Drivers should watch for water-covered roads, particularly along I-5, Highway 99, and near urban underpasses. Residents in flood-prone areas should clear storm drains and prepare for possible advisories as rainfall continues to stack up.
The heaviest rain persists into Thursday, with additional rounds expected before conditions gradually ease by Friday. More flood alerts and river warnings are likely as the system remains anchored over the region.
