PORT ANGELES — The North Olympic Peninsula is bracing for a wet and windy Halloween weekend as an atmospheric river moves into western Washington Friday, bringing the potential for heavy rain, gusty winds, and localized flooding from Port Angeles to Sequim.
The National Weather Service says the strongest impacts are expected Friday afternoon through Saturday, when widespread rain and blustery conditions sweep across the region. Coastal and northern Strait communities could see winds gusting to 35 miles per hour.
Rainfall will be significant. In Port Angeles, forecasters expect around a quarter to half an inch of rain during the day Friday, increasing to one to two inches overnight, with another half inch possible Saturday. Sequim, typically drier under the rain shadow, could still see about an eighth to a quarter inch Friday, rising to as much as three-quarters of an inch Friday night and additional light rain Saturday.
Forecasters say the system could cause flooding in low-lying and urban areas — particularly where storm drains are blocked by leaves — and quick rises on small streams and creeks.
High surf is also expected along the coast Friday night into Saturday, with waves up to 20 feet creating dangerous conditions and potential beach erosion.