A storm connected to an atmospheric river will begin to impact our region tonight. Snow levels are very high with this storm (around 7,000 to 9,000 feet). Melting snow with rain could cause some streams to flood with the main impacts being at the coast.
Expect periods of moderate to heavy rain at the coast and inland to the Cascades beginning tonight and continuing into Wednesday morning.
● Significant rises on area streams, creeks and rivers with the possibility of flooding of urban areas, small streams and areas of poor drainage. Best chance for flooding north of Umpqua Divide and from Josephine County westward. A flood watch is in effect for Coos, Curry and most of Josephine County.
● Burn scar flash flood and debris flow risk is slight at this time with peak rainfall rates up to 0.50”/hour possible during the times of heaviest rain.
● Strong winds (Gusts 60-70 mph) are expected at the coast and east side. Gusty winds (Gusts 45-55 mph) are possible in the Shasta Valley.
● Snow levels rise to 7000-9000 feet, so minimal winter weather impacts are expected.
An atmospheric river will shift south over our area tonight and remain nearly stationary over the area Tuesday into early Wednesday morning, then weaken and move inland during the morning Wednesday. This will bring periods of moderate to heavy rainfall to the coast and for areas eastward to the Cascades. Precipitation will be much lighter south and east of the Cascades. Strong winds will also impact the coast and areas east of the Cascades (esp Summer Lake area) with breezy conditions elsewhere. Snow levels will surge to 7000-9000 feet during this time period. Thus, winter impacts will be minimal. Snow melt could add inflows to drainages. So, at a minimum, significant rises are expected on creeks, streams and rivers, but there is a slight risk for flooding.
