Atmospheric river forecast to bring rain, snow to Pacific Northwest, with possible flooding

An atmospheric river is forecast to bring significant rain and snow to the Pacific Northwest later this week. The storm, which draws moisture typically from tropical origins and carries it via the jet stream, is expected to deliver several inches of rain to coastal areas and potentially feet of snow at higher elevations. The most intense impacts are now projected to target southern Oregon and Northern California, with cities like San Francisco, Eureka, and Medford experiencing the peak of the storm on Saturday and Sunday. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Weather Prediction Center has issued a Level 1 out of 4 flash flood threat for the Northern California coast, coastal Oregon, and parts of western Washington from Friday to Saturday. In the Cascade Mountains, elevations above 5,000 feet could see snow accumulations of 2 feet or more, though the exact amount is still uncertain. Despite the potential for flooding, the incoming rain and snow are considered beneficial for the drought conditions affecting parts of the Northwest. Portions of the Cascades and areas in eastern Washington, northern Idaho, and western Montana are currently experiencing severe to exceptional drought. Additionally, the... download the app to read more