Much-Needed Moisture in the Pacific Northwest
This spring has featured a lengthy dry spell across the Pacific Northwest, increasing drought conditions and snowpack deficits. But earlier this week, a cooler and wetter pattern settled back into the region.
Looking ahead, it appears this trend will stick around. Multiple waves of rain and mountain snow will continue on-and-off into next week in a part of the country that arguably needs it the most.
In recent weeks, it’s been bone dry across the Northwest, with rain and snow deficits starting to pile up across the Northwest. With the upcoming dry summer and early fall seasons, this may be one of the last chances to get a prolonged, drenching rain event into the Pacific Northwest.
Continuing Thursday, a deep trough of low pressure anchored over the region will keep scattered showers and a few thunderstorms in the mix.
On Friday, the rain and mountain snow will mainly impact the northern Rockies. An area of high pressure will briefly keep much of the Pacific Northwest dry.
Another cold front will move in on Saturday, setting the stage for a wet weekend. This system will bring rain as far south as the San Francisco Bay area.
Right now, it appears the highest rainfall totals will occur along the immediate coasts of Washington, Oregon, and northern California. The Cascade foothills and coastal mountain ranges will also witness heavier rainfall. The highest snow totals will occur well inland in the Grand Tetons and the Northern Rocky Mountains.
Hopefully enough moisture will move into the region that it will make a noticeable dent in the widespread drought conditions. So while the Northwest will have a rather classic “Seattle-like” forecast over the next several days, it is probably for the best!
Stay with WeatherNation for the latest on this active pattern in the Pacific Northwest.