Heavy Rains Forecast to Raise Nooksack River Level Next Week

Atmospheric river expected to bring flooding concerns to northern Whatcom County

Mar. 13, 2026 at 7:18pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The National Weather Service Seattle office is forecasting an atmospheric river to arrive in western Washington next week, bringing heavy rains and potential flooding concerns to the Nooksack River and surrounding areas in northern Whatcom County. The river is currently expected to crest below flood stages, but river level forecasts can change frequently.

Why it matters

The Nooksack River is a major waterway in Whatcom County, and flooding along the river can pose risks to nearby residents, businesses, and infrastructure. Monitoring the river levels and being prepared for potential flooding is important for public safety.

The details

According to the forecast, the atmospheric river is expected to bring significant rainfall to the region, with some areas of Whatcom County potentially seeing over 2 inches of rain in a 24-hour period. The heaviest rainfall is expected to occur on Wednesday and Thursday. While the Nooksack River is currently not expected to reach flood stage, river level forecasts can change quickly, and residents and property owners are advised to monitor the situation closely.

  • The atmospheric river is expected to arrive in western Washington early next week.
  • The heaviest rainfall is forecast for Wednesday and Thursday, March 18-19, 2026.
  • The Nooksack River is currently expected to crest below flood stages, but river level forecasts can change frequently.

The players

National Weather Service Seattle office

The regional office of the National Weather Service that provides weather forecasts and warnings for western Washington, including Whatcom County.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The threat for flooding will briefly ease on Sunday before an atmospheric river is expected to move inland to the north early next week. This could bring additional flooding concerns to portions of the area- with rivers over the northern portion of the area bearing watching through the first part of the week.”

— National Weather Service Seattle office

What’s next

Residents and property owners in northern Whatcom County are advised to monitor the Nooksack River level forecast closely in the coming days, as the situation can change rapidly.

The takeaway

Preparing for potential flooding along the Nooksack River is crucial for public safety, as an atmospheric river is expected to bring heavy rains to the region next week. Residents should stay informed about the latest weather alerts and forecasts to ensure they are ready to respond if necessary.