We’re keeping a close eye on a developing pattern that’s going to bring a significant dose of wet weather to the Willamette Valley and surrounding areas. Our forecasting team has been tracking the approach of an atmospheric river, and it looks like the impacts are set to ramp up starting tonight and continuing through much of the week.
We’re anticipating multiple rounds of rain this week. This system will bring not only considerable rainfall totals but also the potential for heavy downpours in localized areas. The ground is already quite saturated from recent precipitation, so we are definitely monitoring the risk of urban and stream flooding, especially in the typical problem spots across the valley and along the coastal ranges and Cascades. Parts of our area, including Eugene are under flood watches into Thursday night.
Following this first round, we’ll see another surge of moisture move in by Tuesday night into Wednesday. While total rainfall might be slightly lower than the first event, it’s still expected to be heavy. This prolonged period of wet weather combined with gusty winds will be a significant concern. We are expecting gusts of at least 30 mph inland and up to 40 mph closer to the coast. This could lead to downed trees and potential power outages given the saturated soil conditions. A Wind Advisory is likely in effect for portions of the Coast Range, Willamette Valley, and Cascade foothills…