Atmospheric river brings rain, rising rivers to Seattle

Multiple rounds of rain and mild temperatures expected through the week

Mar. 16, 2026 at 10:03pm

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A classic Pacific Northwest atmospheric river will keep western Washington in a wet and relatively mild pattern through much of the week, with multiple rounds of rain, warmer temperatures, and rising snow levels in the mountains. The rain and melting snow could lead to rising rivers and potential flooding concerns later this week.

Why it matters

Atmospheric rivers are a common weather pattern in the Pacific Northwest, but this one raises concerns about accelerated runoff and river flooding due to rain falling on existing mountain snowpack.

The details

The atmospheric river will bring consistent rain and mild temperatures to western Washington through Friday, with highs in the 50s and lows in the upper 40s. High snow levels mean rain will fall on mountain snowpack, creating significant concerns for accelerated runoff and river flooding later this week. Conditions are expected to dry out and turn cooler by next weekend.

  • The next surge of moisture arrives tonight and Tuesday as the core of the atmospheric river shifts south into western Washington.
  • The wet pattern continues into Thursday and Friday, with additional waves of moisture moving through the region.
  • Looking ahead to next weekend, forecast models hint at a shift toward cooler conditions as the atmospheric river finally moves out and another weather system arrives from the northeastern Pacific.

The players

Western Washington

The region that will be impacted by the atmospheric river, including Seattle and surrounding areas.

Cascades

The mountain range where rain and melting snow could lead to rising river levels.

Olympics

The mountain range where rainfall totals will continue to add up, contributing to rising river levels.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This atmospheric river event highlights the importance of monitoring river levels and being prepared for potential flooding in the Pacific Northwest, as these weather patterns can quickly lead to accelerated runoff and rising waterways.