Heavy Rain Expected Overnight Across Western Washington and Oregon, Wet Morning Commute for Seattle and Portland
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON — A new wave of rain is moving into the Pacific Northwest, bringing steady showers overnight into Thursday morning for western Washington and Oregon. Forecasters warn that residents in Seattle, Olympia, and Portland should prepare for a wet and slow morning commute, especially along the Interstate 5 corridor.
Rain Expands Overnight from Coast to Inland Areas
According to regional weather models, scattered showers around the Puget Sound and Willamette Valley Wednesday afternoon are expected to increase in coverage overnight. By early Thursday morning, the heaviest rainfall will stretch from Bellingham to Portland, affecting major urban centers and travel routes across the western side of both states.
Meteorologists say the system will continue moving eastward through the morning, bringing pockets of heavy rain to interior areas before tapering off later in the day.
Wet Morning Commute for Seattle and Portland
The National Weather Service advises drivers to allow extra travel time on Thursday as wet pavement and reduced visibility could make for hazardous commuting conditions. Rainfall rates are expected to be moderate during the morning rush hour, with isolated heavier bursts around the I-5 corridor and low-lying coastal zones.
Cities most likely to experience significant rainfall include Seattle, Olympia, Tacoma, Portland, and Salem, with light showers extending south into Eugene and Medford.
Rain Tapers Off by Thursday Evening
Forecasters expect the weather system to weaken by Thursday evening, leaving behind patchy drizzle and lingering cloud cover. By late Thursday night, most of the heavier showers will have moved east toward the Cascade foothills, allowing for drier conditions heading into Friday.
Temperatures are forecast to remain seasonably cool, with highs in the mid-40s to low-50s across western Washington and Oregon.
Outlook for the Weekend
Weather experts say another disturbance could bring intermittent light rain to coastal areas this weekend, but no major storms are currently expected. Residents should still keep rain gear handy, as early December’s pattern typically brings frequent Pacific systems to the region.
Motorists are reminded to slow down, maintain extra distance between vehicles, and watch for standing water on roads.
Have you experienced delays or flooding in your area during this storm system? Share your photos and local updates with us at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
