SEATTLE, Wash. – Washington State is facing yet another round of stormy weather, as forecasters warn of heavy rain, hail, lightning, and gusty winds sweeping across the region Thursday. The unsettled pattern follows a wet and windy Wednesday, which brought flooding concerns, traffic disruptions, and even a brief tornado warning along the south Washington coast.
More Rain and Thunderstorms on the Way
According to the KOMO Forecast Team, lingering showers and thunderstorms will persist through the night before intensifying again on Thursday. While the region may experience brief dry intervals overnight, periods of heavy rain and small hail will return by morning, along with flashes of lightning across Puget Sound and the I-5 corridor.
“We’ve nearly made it through one storm, but another strong system is right on its heels,” meteorologists said. “Expect another messy commute Thursday afternoon as rain and thunder return.”
Drivers across the Seattle metro area are urged to use caution, as standing water and hydroplaning have already been reported on I-5, Aurora Avenue, and major arterials in King and Snohomish counties.
Tornado Scare Along the Coast
Radar detected a rotating cell near Long Beach Wednesday evening, prompting a brief tornado warning for the south Washington coast. While a funnel cloud may have briefly formed, forecasters said it did not touch down or cause damage.
The storm also produced frequent lightning and pea-sized hail, signaling the strength of the ongoing weather pattern.
Thursday: More of the Same for Commuters
Thursday will begin with scattered showers and isolated downpours, but conditions are expected to worsen by midday. A strong trough of low pressure will move inland from the coast, bringing another round of heavy rain, thunder, and gusty winds across the Olympic Peninsula, Puget Sound, and Southwest Washington.
The heaviest rain is expected to arrive during the evening commute, likely creating hazardous driving conditions once again.
“Commuting will be a bear,” forecasters warned. “Expect reduced visibility, slick roads, and sudden bursts of wind and rain during the late afternoon and evening.”
Coastal Flooding and Marine Hazards
The National Weather Service has issued Gale Warnings for the north Sound, Strait of Juan de Fuca, and coastal waters, warning of rough seas and strong winds that could impact fall fishermen and marine traffic.
Additionally, a Coastal Flood Advisory is in effect for Pacific beaches and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, as high storm swells combine with the season’s King Tides. Coastal flooding and beach erosion are possible late Thursday morning through the afternoon.
Residents are advised to stay clear of surf zones and avoid driving through flooded coastal roads.
Friday and the Weekend Outlook
Relief is on the horizon. By Friday, showers will taper off, and the region will enter a drier and calmer pattern heading into the weekend. Morning fog may develop, especially in south Puget Sound, but partly sunny skies are expected by afternoon with crisp autumn conditions.
The weekend forecast looks favorable, with highs in the upper 50s and mostly dry weather continuing through Sunday.
As Washington residents brace for one more day of intense fall weather, officials urge caution on the roads and near coastal areas.
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