Portland, get ready for a weather phenomenon that will leave you soaked! An atmospheric river is making its way through the city, and it's not just your typical rainy day.
But wait, what's an atmospheric river? It's not a river in the sky, despite what your imagination might conjure. It's a powerful weather system that can bring intense rainfall and potential flooding. And this one is set to give Portland a good drenching.
The National Weather Service is keeping a close eye on this atmospheric visitor. By Wednesday, they predict a series of frontal systems, with the potential for flood hazards by Monday. So, if you thought your Thursday night commute was unusually wet, you weren't imagining it!
Here's the forecast: Portland, prepare for up to two-thirds of an inch of rain by Friday. But the coast and the Cascades won't be spared either, with up to 3 inches and 4 inches of rain, respectively. And let's not forget the wind! Friday might bring gusts of 20-30 mph, so secure those festive decorations.
The weekend won't provide much relief. As one system weakens on Saturday, another will take its place on Sunday. While the coast and mountains may catch a slight break, Portland could still accumulate a significant amount of rain by Monday. The NWS advises residents in flood-prone areas to stay alert.
And here's where it gets intriguing: Monday is when things get interesting. It's not the rain itself that's the main concern, but the water from these atmospheric rivers seeping into the land. When you add the potential for winds reaching 30-40 mph, it's not just Santa who should be worried about his sleigh. The NWS cautions that the situation is still uncertain, but minor flooding is expected.
Atmospheric rivers are no joke. They've caused significant floods in the past, like the Christmas Flood of 1964 and the Willamette Valley Flood of 1996. These rivers can unleash an astonishing amount of water, comparable to the flow of the Mississippi River at its mouth. So, this is not a weather event to be taken lightly, even for those who scoff at umbrellas.
As Willamette Week, your local independent news source, we're here to keep you informed. But we need your support to continue holding power to account. Don't let the dreamers wake up to a flooded nation. Stay tuned, stay dry, and consider giving back to your local news outlet today.
