Record-Breaking Atmospheric River Drenches Pacific Northwest, Disrupting Transportation and Elevating Temperatures

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The Pacific Northwest has been deluged by an atmospheric river, causing widespread flooding, record-breaking warm temperatures, and disruptions across the region. Washington state has been particularly impacted, with significant transportation shutdowns, including the halting of Amtrak service between Seattle and Portland, Oregon, due to a landslide. The National Weather Service has issued flood warnings in western Washington, notably around Seattle and the Olympic Peninsula.

This weather event has also brought unusually high temperatures to the area. Walla Walla, in southwestern Washington, reported a high of 64 degrees Fahrenheit (17.8 degrees Celsius), matching the warmth of certain areas in Florida and Mexico. Seattle broke its daily record high with a temperature of 59 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius) early Tuesday morning.

Atmospheric rivers, such as the “Pineapple Express,” are known for their warm, moist air originating near Hawaii. These systems can transport large volumes of water vapor, as seen last winter in California.

Forks, a town on the Olympic Peninsula renowned for its rainfall, experienced a record-breaking 3.8 inches (9.65 centimeters) of rain on December 4, exceeding its previous record. By Tuesday morning, it had accumulated 4.7 inches (11.94 centimeters) of rain in 24 hours, surpassing the total rainfall Las Vegas has seen throughout 2023.

In Hoquiam, approximately 100 miles (160.93 kilometers) south, another daily rainfall record was broken with 2.6 inches (6.60 centimeters) on Monday. Seattle also surpassed its daily rainfall record with 1.5 inches (3.81 centimeters). Kirby Cook of the NWS in Seattle anticipates continued significant impacts, particularly with rising river levels.

Flooding led to the closure of Washington State Route 106, with the Skokomish River overflowing onto the roadway. The NWS expected record-breaking precipitation and temperatures in western Washington on Tuesday.

A landslide also forced the closure of a popular Seattle trail, affecting walkers, joggers, and cyclists. The city’s parks department reported damage to the Burke-Gilman Trail and is working on alternative routes.

Oregon faced similar challenges, with heavy rainfall leading to the closure of parts of coastal U.S. Highway 101 due to flooding. School closures were reported in at least three districts along the Oregon coast due to flooding and road blockages.

Authorities have advised caution to drivers, warning against waterlogged roads and anticipating delays.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Atmospheric River Impact

More about Atmospheric River Impact

• National Weather Service
• Amtrak
• Washington State Department of Transportation
• Oregon Department of Transportation
• The Weather Channel