SEATTLE, Wash. – Western Washington is preparing for another round of strong weather as meteorologists have declared Thursday a Pinpoint Alert Day, warning residents to expect heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and isolated thunderstorms across much of the region. The alert follows a midweek system that already brought soaking rain and blustery winds to parts of the coast and Puget Sound.
Breezy Start and Morning Showers
An offshore low-pressure system will continue to influence weather patterns Thursday, keeping conditions unsettled from morning through evening. Early showers are expected to be lighter than those on Wednesday night, but breezy winds of 20–30 mph will persist, with temperatures in the upper 40s to around 50°F.
“Another strong band of rain and gusty winds is moving toward the coast,” forecasters said Thursday. “This system could bring downpours, thunder, and short-term flooding during the afternoon and evening hours.”
Rain Bands and Thunderstorm Risk
By late morning, a new wave of rain and isolated thunderstorms will reach the Pacific coast, spreading inland through the Olympic Peninsula and Puget Sound region by mid-afternoon.
While the storms near the coast are not expected to be severe, gusts up to 40 mph are likely in coastal communities and higher elevations. The National Weather Service said no wind advisories are currently in effect, though that could change depending on how the system develops.
Coastal Flooding and Beach Erosion
Residents along the Washington coast, including Westport, should prepare for coastal flooding of 2–3 feet above typical high tide levels from late Thursday morning through early afternoon. Forecasters are also warning of near-shore waves exceeding 20 feet, which could worsen coastal erosion and create dangerous surf conditions.
Those living or traveling along the coast are urged to avoid low-lying beach areas and secure outdoor property ahead of the high tides.
Heavier Rain Moving Inland
Around Puget Sound, the morning will start relatively quiet, but heavier rainfall will move inland during the afternoon and persist into the evening. The strongest showers could bring gusts between 30–45 mph and brief urban flooding, especially in low-lying intersections and city streets.
Rainfall totals by the end of Thursday are expected to reach 1–2 inches along the coast, 0.5–1 inch across the interior, and 1–3 inches in mountain areas.
The Skokomish River in Mason County is already in minor flood stage and is projected to remain elevated through Friday morning before beginning to drop.
Looking Ahead to a Calmer Weekend
Rain will taper across the region by Friday afternoon, making way for a mostly cloudy but drier weekend. Highs will remain mild in the upper 50s to low 60s, offering a break from the stormy pattern.
By Sunday, conditions should be comfortable for the Seahawks game, with kickoff temperatures near 60°F and only a light breeze expected. Another round of light showers may return early next week, but no organized storms are anticipated through midweek.
Residents are urged to stay alert to updated forecasts and flood advisories as the system moves through.
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