Seattle, WA – Residents along the northern Washington coast are bracing for dangerous conditions as the National Weather Service (NWS) warns of moderate to major coastal flooding and high surf beginning Wednesday morning through Thursday night.
According to the NWS Seattle, a Coastal Flood Warning is in effect from 7 a.m. Wednesday to 10 p.m. Thursday, with water levels rising 2 to 3 feet above ground level in low-lying coastal areas. A High Surf Advisory will also take effect 4 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, bringing waves of 20 to 25 feet.
Communities most at risk include Westport, La Push, and Grays Harbor County, where midday high tides could coincide with storm surge, leading to widespread road closures, shoreline erosion, and flooding of homes and businesses.
Officials urge residents to prepare now by protecting flood-prone property, avoiding coastal areas during high tide, and never driving through flooded roads. Beachgoers are warned to stay off driftwood and maintain a safe distance from the surf, as sneaker waves can quickly sweep people off their feet.
High water and wave activity are expected to peak Thursday, potentially bringing impacts as severe—or worse—than those seen earlier in the week.
