Damaging winds, snow expected in Whatcom lowlands as alerts are issued

This is a developing story. Check back to bellinghamherald.com for updates.
To sign up for breaking news alerts, click here.

An updated forecast now shows that Whatcom County is in the path of a storm that could bring at least some snow accumulation, damaging winds and power outages to Northwest Washington.

Snow was expected to start Tuesday afternoon, Nov. 29, and extend into Wednesday morning, Nov. 30, according to a new forecast, which also sees fierce winds out of the east and southeast during the same time frame.

Forecasts had been inconclusive about whether Bellingham and the Whatcom County lowlands would see more than a slight accumulation of snow, and the National Weather Service in Seattle said the storm’s behavior was difficult to predict.

“A convoluted weather pattern is set to unfold over the next day or so that is leading to a forecast that remains complex, uncertain, and full of potential complications,” meteorologist Matthew Cullen said in the online forecast discussion Tuesday morning.

A high wind warning was issued and a winter storm watch was downgraded to a winter weather advisory, calling for lesser amounts of snow, in the range of 1 to 4 inches.

Environment Canada was predicting snowfall of between 2 inches and 10 inches, with heavier snow forecast in Abbotsford, B.C., near Lynden and Sumas in Whatcom County.

But the threat of a widespread windstorm has increased, with speeds expected at 30 to 40 mph and gusts to 55 mph.

“Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles,” the National Weather Service said online.

Residents were advised to stay inside if possible and avoid trees and woodlands because of the danger from falling branches.

“If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive,” forecasters said.

Timing for the storm puts its start at the end of the school day and just before the evening commute Tuesday.

“Travel could be very difficult,” the weather service said online.

In Bellingham, Public Works Department crews were taking steps to make streets less slippery as snow and several days of below-normal temperatures loom in the forecast, said Marty Gray, superintendent of maintenance.

Overnight shelters opened in Ferndale and Bellingham, according to the Whatcom County Health Department.

Snow was expected to turn to rain on Wednesday morning as the winds ease, changing to snow again Wednesday night and into Thursday.

Daytime highs will remain in the 30s, with overnight lows in the 20s.