LOCAL STORM REPORT

 
 NWUS56 KSEW 302254
 LSRSEW
 
 PRELIMINARY LOCAL STORM REPORT
 NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SEATTLE WA
 354 PM PDT WED APR 30 2008
 
 ..TIME...   ...EVENT...      ...CITY LOCATION...     ...LAT.LON...

 ..DATE...   ....MAG....      ..COUNTY LOCATION..ST.. ...SOURCE....
             ..REMARKS..
 
 0354 PM     HAIL             S SPANAWAY              47.10N 122.43W
 04/30/2008  E0.25 INCH       PIERCE             WA   TRAINED SPOTTER 

 
 
 &&

Air Quality Awareness

National Air Quality Week: April 28-May 2, 2008

NOAA's National Weather Service and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are urging Americans to "Be Air Aware" through its air quality awareness days: See state and local Air Quality Awareness Week activities. Monday: Ozone and Particle Pollution What is Air Pollution? What is Ozone? What is Particle Pollution? Tuesday: What Causes Poor Air Quality What Affects my Air Quality? It All Adds Up To Cleaner Air - spring quiz Wednesday: Keeping Your Lungs and Heart Safe Keeping Your Lungs and Heart Safe:     Use the Air Quality Index to Protect Against Poor Air Quality Forecast Earth "Air Aware" Video Asthma Awareness Month Thursday: What are Air Quality Forecasts? How are Air Quality Forecasts Made and How do They Help? Check Your Local Forecast and Current Conditions Check the Map of State/Local Air Quality Forecasts Check the Air Quality Forecast Guidance Friday: What Can You Do to Help Make the Air Cleaner? What Can You Do to Help Make the Air Cleaner? National Bike and Walk to Work Day National Rideshare Directory Forecasts NOAA EPA AIRNOW References Frequently Asked Questions Air Resource Laboratory EPA Home

RECORD REPORT

 
 SXUS76 KSEW 030833
 RERSEW
 
 RECORD EVENT REPORT 
 NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SEATTLE, WA
 131 AM PDT SAT MAY 03 2008
 
 ...RECORD LOW TEMPERATURE SET AT SEATTLE WFO...
 
 A RECORD LOW TEMPERATURE OF 40 DEGREES WAS SET AT SEATTLE WFO 

 YESTERDAY. THIS TIES THE OLD RECORD OF 40 SET IN 2006.

Wind Speed

	Today Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon 8 mph 7 mph 7 mph 8 mph 9 mph 7 mph 5 mph 6 mph 6 mph 6 mph

UV Index

0 Low    10+ Extreme

	Today Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon 5 5 6 5 6 6 4 4 4 4

Introduction to Severe Weather Awareness Week

The week of May 4th through 10th is Severe Weather Awareness Week in the Pacific Northwest, including the states of Idaho, Oregon and Washington. This is an excellent time for all individuals, families, businesses, schools, radio and television stations to review their spring and summer storm preparedness plans. It is especially important for new arrivals to the Pacific Northwest to become familiar with NOAA's National Weather Service Watch and Warning definitions, and their safety procedures.

Thunderstorm at Florence, 2003

Intro

May 5

May 6

May 7

May 8

May 9

May 10

Floods and Flash Floods

Would you stop, or go on through this flooded roadway?
Looks not too bad... (normally dry stream bed)	Hmmm, then again... Turn Around...Don't Drown!

Intro

May 5

May 6

May 7

May 8

May 9

May 10

…Flooding and flash flooding…a significant threat to life and property across the pacific northwest…

"Flash floods are a significant concern in the region because of our rugged terrain," said Mike Vescio, Pendleton , Ore. , forecast office meteorologist in charge. "On June 14, 1903 , the worst natural disaster in Oregon history occurred when a flash flood swept through Heppner destroying the town and claiming about 250 lives during the second worst flash flood fatality event in American history."

What is the difference between a flash flood and river flooding? Flash flooding occurs within a few hours of the heavy rain event and ends a few hours after it starts. Rriver flooding takes half a day or longer to develop and frequently rivers will remain above flood state for days at a time.

Flooding and flash flooding occur every year at some location across the Pacific Northwest. Since 1986, over 700 floods and flash floods have been reported somewhere in the states ofIidaho, Oregon, or Washington. This is an average of over 27 flash flood events per year. some years see only a few events, in a bad year more than 75 such events can occur.

As long as a significant snowpack remains in the mountains…spring storms could cause rapid rises in area rivers and streams. rain falling on the heavy snow pack has the potential to cause rapid snowmelt…flooding small streams and even larger rivers. This year's heavy snow pack will remain in the higher elevations until early july. This will keep an elevated risk of river flooding across the Pacific Northwest into early summer.

An additional flooding threat across the pacific northwest is flash flooding due to heavy downpours from thunderstorms. FLASH FLOODING from thunderstorms IS CAUSED BY the rain falling faster than it can be carried away by normal drainage channels. the result is pools of water in low lying areas and rapid rises in small streams as the large volume of water races downstream.

A flash flood refers to a dangerous sudden rise in water along a stream...river...wash...or over a normally dry land area. Flash floods result from heavy rainfall...river ice jams... snowmelt... and dam or levee failures. Flash floods can occur within a few minutes or hours...and can move at surprisingly high speeds...striking with little warning. They can erode an entire mountain side...roll boulders the size of trucks...tear out trees...destroy buildings...wash out roads and bridges and cause loss of lives. Rain weakened soils can also result in mud slides capable of closing interstates.

To stay informed about a flash flood listen for:

A Flash Flood WATCH…

This tells you that flash flooding is possible within the watch area.  You should remain alert and be ready to evacuate on a moment's notice.

A Flash Flood Warning…

This tells you that flash flooding has been reported or is imminent. When a flash flood warning is issued for your area...act quickly to save yourself.  If advised to evacuate...do so immediately. Go to higher ground or climb to safety. Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood water.

An Urban and Small Stream Flood Advisory…

This tells you that flooding of small streams...streets and low lying areas...such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains...is occurring...but rainfall is not expected to produce a flash flood situation.

The following basic flash flood safety rules should be observed when you see flooding or hear about a flash flood warning…

Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes...particularly during threatening conditions.

If you are near a river be aware of water levels and be prepared to take action to move to higher ground if river levels rise.

Do not enter areas that are already flooded.

Do not try to cross a flowing stream on foot when the water is at or above your knees.

If walking or fishing along a river...be aware that erosion from swift running water can cause river banks to collapse.

Never let your children play around high water...storm drains...viaducts or arroyos.

Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

Nearly half of all flash flood fatalities are auto related.  While driving your automobile look out for flooding at highway dips...bridges and low areas.  Two feet of water will carry away most automobiles.  Never attempt to drive over a flooded road.  The road bed may be washed out under the water and you could be stranded or trapped.  If the vehicle stalls...leave it immediately and seek higher ground.  Rising water may engulf the vehicle and sweep it away.

THE BEST ADVICE IF YOU ARE IN A VEHICLE…TURN AROUND…DON'T DROWN.

During flash flood season...and year round...stay abreast of the latest weather information.  You can receive the latest forecasts and immediate notification of warnings on NOAA weather radio.

From the past...
Deadly Flash Flood on June 14, 1903 at Heppner, Oregon [ historical photo ]
This was surely the most deadly natural disaster in Oregon's recorded history. A strong thunderstorm, accompanied by extremely heavy rain and hail, moved near Heppner, Oregon. The storm covered a very small area, probably no more than 50 square miles. Heavy rain fell in a very short time, creating severe flash flooding along Willow Creek, normally a peaceful stream flowing through the town center. The entire town was swept away in just a few short minutes, drowning nearly 247 people. Eyewitnesses say thunderstorm rains arrived as a 40-foot wall of water and the ensuing flood raged through town for over an hour. In all, one-third of the towns' structures were wiped out. The massive runoff of water was a result of heavy rain falling on the barren rocky hills, then flowing into the Willow Creek watershed. Only fifteen minutes separated the first rainwater in Willow Creek at Heppner and the flood crest! There are no rainfall records available for this storm because the weather observing station was completely destroyed, drowning the observer and his entire family.

A similar fate would have been in store for the citizens of Ione, just 20 miles downstream. However, telephoned warnings prompted an immediate evacuation and residents escaped to high ground. At least 150 homes were destroyed at Ione and bodies were washed more than 40 miles downstream to the Columbia River.

Additional Links of Interest...
1. Historic Floods of Oregon
2. Severe Emergency Plan for Inland Pacific NW Schools
3. Each local office may have photographs online ( see office links below )

Tornadoes and Waterspouts

The week of May 4th through 10th is Severe Weather Awareness Week in the Pacific Northwest, including the states of Idaho, Oregon and Washington. This is an excellent time for all individuals, families, businesses, schools, radio and television stations to review their spring and summer storm preparedness plans. It is especially important for new arrivals to the Pacific Northwest to become familiar with NOAA's National Weather Service Watch and Warning definitions, and their safety procedures.

tornado over East Wenatchee, 2004

Intro

May 5

May 6

May 7

May 8

May 9

May 10

...TORNADO INFORMATION AND SAFETY RULES...

...TORNADOES, NATURE'S FURY...

" Some people incorrectly believe that the Pacific Northwest does not get severe weather," said John Livingston, meteorologist-in-charge of NOAA's National Weather Service forecast office in Spokane , Wash. "Yet, history shows this region does get severe weather, including tornadoes, severe thunderstorms and flash floods."

This week is severe weather week in the Pacific Northwest and today…the focus is on tornadoes and waterspouts. Tornadoes are defined as a rapidly rotating column of air in contact with the ground while waterspouts are in contact with a body of water. A funnel cloud is not in contact with the ground.

The Pacific Northwest averages six tornadoes during the year. July and august are the most common months to see a tornado although they have been reported in almost every month of the year. The majority of tornadoes occur between 1 pm and 9 pm . The usual strength is rated between an EF0 and EF2 – or better described as weak to strong with wind speeds ranging from 40 mph to 157 mph.

Tornadoes do occur in western Washington and Oregon with each state averaging between one or two each year. Some years are relatively active. In 1997, Washington had a record 14 tornadoes and in 2004, 9 tornadoes. Though most tornadoes in our region are less intense than those east of the Rockies and last only a few minutes, our area did lead the nation in tornado deaths in 1972. An F3 tornado touched down in Vancouver on April 6th, plowing through a grocery store, a bowling center and a school, killing 6 and injuring several hundred.

In western Oregon and Washington tornadoes and waterspouts can occur in any month of the year…but most occur during our transition seasons – spring and fall. Nearly all occur during the heat of the day…between 1 pm and 7 pm .

When conditions for tornadoes become favorable...NOAA's national weather service - storm prediction center issues a tornado watch covering a large area for the next four to six hours. This is when you need to review what you would do in case a warning is issued. It may be too late to develop a plan after a warning goes into effect. Stay tuned to commercial radio...NOAA weather radio...local TV...or cable TV.

When tornadoes are imminent or detected by Doppler weather radar or trained spotters...a tornado warning is issued by the NWS . Over our coastal waters…a special marine warning is issued for the water equivalent of a tornado named a waterspout. Special Marine Warnings are also issued for winds in excess of 35 knots associated with strong thunderstorms.

If the tornado warning is for your area...remember the following safety tips:

IN HOMES OR SMALL BUILDINGS:

Go to the basement (if available) or to an interior room on the lowest floor...such as a closet or bathroom. Upper floors are unsafe. If there is no time to descend... go to a closet...a small room with strong walls...or an inside hallway. Wrap yourself in overcoats or blankets to protect yourself from flying debris.

IN SCHOOLS, HOSPITALS, FACTORIES, OR SHOPPING CENTERS:

Go to interior rooms and halls on the lowest floor. Stay away from glass enclosed places or areas with wide-span roofs such as auditoriums and warehouses. Crouch down and cover your head. Don't take shelter in halls that open to the south or the west. Centrally-located stairwells are good shelter.

IN HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS:

Go to interior small rooms or halls. Stay away from exterior walls or areas containing glass.

IN CARS OR MOBILE HOMES:

Abandon them immediately!!! Most deaths occur in cars and mobile homes. If you are in either of those locations...leave them and go to a substantial structure or designated tornado shelter.

IF NO SUITABLE STRUCTURE IS NEARBY:

Lie flat in the nearest ditch or depression and use your hands to cover your head. Be alert for flash floods.

DURING A TORNADO:

Absolutely avoid buildings with large free-span roofs. Stay away from west and south walls. Remember...find the lowest level, smallest room...or center part of a building or home. No matter where you are...do some advance planning if possible. Identify protective areas you can get to in a hurry. Obtain a NOAA Weather Radio that will provide an alarm if a tornado watch or warning is in effect for your community or county. Tornadoes may even develop without a tornado warning in effect.

Here are a few tips to help you...survivors of tornadoes have often stated hearing a loud roaring sound with tornadoes. Also, if you are receiving golfball hail or larger...you are near the most dangerous part of the storm which could be followed by a tornado. If you see rotating debris even without the existence of a funnel cloud...it could be a dangerous twister.

Regardless...the key to tornado survival in the Pacific Northwest is to be prepared and take immediate action when a warning is issued or when you spot a tornado. Remember, the actions you take during a tornado event may save your life and the lives of your family.

Severe Weather Awareness Week continues through May 10 in the Pacific Northwest . This is an excellent time for all individuals...families...businesses...schools...radio and television stations to review their severe weather preparedness plans.

Additional Links of Interest...

1. Fujita Scale of Tornado strength
2. F3 Tornado Strikes Portland/Vancouver on April 5, 1972
3. Historic Tornadoes of Oregon
4. Tornadoes of Eastern Washington
5. Tornadoes of Eastern Idaho
6. Severe Emergency Plan for Inland Pacific NW Schools
7. Preparedness for Tornadoes
8. Each local office may have photographs online ( see office links below )

Remember, in times of severe weather, you can get all these vital NOAA/National Weather Service messages via NOAA Weather Radio, your favorite local media, or through NOAA's National Weather Service websites.

For questions about local Severe Weather Preparedness, contact your local NOAA National Weather Service Office:

Strong Winds, Hail and Lightning

The week of May 4-10 is Severe Weather Awareness Week in the Pacific Northwest, including the states of Idaho, Oregon and Washington. This is an excellent time for all individuals, families, businesses, schools, radio and television stations to review their spring and summer storm preparedness plans. It is especially important for new arrivals to the Pacific Northwest to become familiar with NOAA's National Weather Service Watch and Warning definitions, and their safety procedures.

Walnut-sized Hail

Intro

May 5

May 6

May 7

May 8

May 9

May 10

...STRONG STRAIGHT- LINE WINDS...LARGE HAIL... AND LIGHTNING ARE MAJOR WEATHER THREATS IN THE NORTHWEST...

Thunderstorms may form by midday and carry on into the evening hours or possibly through the night. some threats from thunderstorms include large hail…lightning…and strong gusty winds.

Straight line winds

Downburst winds from a thunderstorm usually result when an area of air within the storm is cooled by raindrops or hailstones...or by the evaporation of the raindrops. This pocket of cooled air...heavier than the surrounding air...accelerates downward to the ground. as the cool air impacts into the ground...it spreads out from the area of impact.

This process...in extreme cases...can cause winds higher than 100 mph. weather forecasters call these bursts of wind "microbursts" if they are less than 2 1/2 miles across and "macrobursts" if they are greater than 2 1/2 miles across. These downbursts of air can be very hazardous and even life-threatening to people flying in airplanes and can cause extensive damage...injuries and fatalities at ground level as well.

Try to get indoors during all thunderstorm activity. High winds can suddenly develop...which can cause things on the ground to become swift moving airborne missiles...which can injure or kill.

Hail

Hail...another thunderstorm threat...often occurs in the northwest. hail forms within thunderstorms as liquid water freezes in the cold mid and upper levels of the storms. The ice is kept aloft by strong updraft winds for a time...then when it becomes too large to be kept aloft by the updrafts...it cascades to the ground.

Hailstones may vary from pea-size to larger than softballs. Hailstones can do tremendous damage to farm crops...either as large hailstones or as a concentrated fall of small hailstones that accumulates to a depth of several inches. Large hail can easily damage vehicles and buildings...and can be life-threatening to animals and people. Even small hail can be dangerous to motorists when it accumulates a few inches on roadways.

Lightning

One aspect of spring and summer storms is lightning. Each year...about 400 people in the U.S. are struck by lightning while working outside...at sports events...on the beach...mountain climbing...mowing the lawn or during other outdoor activities. In the United States an average of 62 people are killed by lightning each year and several hundred others are injuried and are left to cope with permanent disabilities.

Lightning often strikes as far as 10 miles away from any rainfall...and has been documented to strike up to 70 miles away from the thunderstorm which generated the lightning. Many lightning victims are struck ahead of the storm or shortly after the storm has passed.

Outdoors is the most dangerous place to be during a thunderstorm. Watch for darkening cloud bases and head to safety before that first lightning flash. If you can hear thunder...the storm is close enough that it could strike your location at any moment...and you should seek shelter. If lightning is forecast...plan an alternate activity or know where you can take cover quickly.

If caught outside and lightning is in the immediate area,, and there are no safe locations nearby, the following steps will help decrease your chances of being struck by lightning. Do not seek shelter in partially enclosed building, or tall objects such as an isolated or small group of trees. Stay at least 15 feet apart from other members of your group so the lightning won't travel between you if hit. Keep your feet together and sit on the ground out in the open. If you can possibly run to a vehicle or building, do so! Sitting or crouching on the ground is not safe and should be used only as a last resort if an enclosed building or vehicle is not available.

Lightning injuries can lead to permanent disabilities or death. If someone is struck by lightning...call 9-1-1 or your local ambulance service. Give first aid as quickly as possible. People struck by lightning carry no electrical charge that can shock others. you can examine them without risk.

Try to get indoors during all thunderstorms. when thunderstorms...with all their hazards...threaten you this severe weather season...tune to noaa weather radio...the weather channel...or your local radio or television stations for up to date information.

This week is severe weather awareness week in the northwest. now is the time to get prepared for thunderstorms and hazardous weather such as strong gusty winds…hail…and lightning. Public safety information statements will be issued throughout the week to help you know how to respond when severe weather threatens.

This message is brought to you by your local NOAA National Weather Office.

HOW FAR IS THE LIGHTNING?
See the flash, then count 1000, 1001, 1002, 1003 and so on. Figure a count of 1000 to 1005 is one mile, as it takes thunder about 5 seconds to travel one mile. So, subtract 1000, then divide your count by 5. Now you know roughly how far away the lightning was.

PUBLIC INFORMATION STATEMENT

 
 NOUS46 KSEW 052205
 PNSSEW
 WASHINGTON PRECIPITATION SUMMARY
 
 NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SEATTLE WA
 
 315 PM PDT MON MAY 5 2008
 
 
 ...WASHINGTON PRECIPITATION SUMMARY FOR THE MONTH OF APRIL-UPDATED...

 
 
 APRIL WAS A DRY MONTH FOR WASHINGTON WITH MUCH BELOW NORMAL
 
 PRECIPITATION.  FOR WESTERN WASHINGTON...THE PERCENTAGE OF NORMAL
 
 PRECIPITATION RANGED FROM 70 FOR THE OLYMPICS TO 81 FOR THE WEST

 
 FOOTHILLS AND CASCADES.  THE GREATEST AMOUNT OF PRECIPITATION RECORDED
 
 AT CLIMATE STATIONS FOR THE FOOTHILLS AND MOUNTAINS...COASTS...AND
 
 INTERIOR LOWLANDS WAS 10.40 INCHES AT SOUTH FORK TOLT DAM...6.24

 
 INCHES AT NASELLE...AND 4.76 INCHES AT MONROE RESPECTIVELY.
 
 
 FOR EASTERN WASHINGTON...THE PERCENTAGE OF NORMAL PRECIPITATION RANGED
 
 FROM 34 FOR THE EAST SLOPES OF THE CASCADES TO 79 FOR THE NORTH EAST

 
 REGION.  THE GREATEST AMOUNT OF PRECIPITATION RECORDED AT CLIMATE
 
 STATIONS FOR THE MOUNTAINS AND LOWLANDS WAS 1.40 INCHES AT MT. ADAMS
 
 AND 1.82 INCHES AT NORTHPORT RESPECTIVELY.
 
 
 THE OUTLOOK FOR MAY AND BEYOND...THE OUTLOOK FOR THE NEXT TWO WEEKS IS

 
 FOR ABOVE NORMAL PRECIPITATION. FOR THE ENTIRE MONTH OF MAY THE
 
 OUTLOOK IS FOR BELOW NORMAL PRECIPITATION.  THE OUTLOOK FOR THE PERIOD
 
 MAY THROUGH JULY IS FOR SLIGHTLY INCREASED CHANCE OF BELOW NORMAL

 
 PRECIPITATION.
 
 
 
 THE TABLE BELOW GIVES PRECIPITATION FIGURES AS A PERCENT OF NORMAL FOR
 
 REGIONS OF WASHINGTON.  THE CURRENT WATER YEAR BEGAN 1 OCTOBER 2007
 
 AND ENDS 30 SEPTEMBER 2008.

 
 
                              APR    WATER YEAR  PAST 3    PAST 12
 
                              2008    TO DATE    MONTHS    MONTHS
 
 WESTERN WASHINGTON
 
   COAST                       75        85        77        86

 
   OLYMPICS                    70        88        66        90
 
   NORTHWEST INTERIOR          78        90        95        87
 
   PUGET SOUND LOWLANDS        75        93        73        95
 

   SOUTHWEST INTERIOR          74        96        86        92
 
   WEST FOOTHILLS CASCADES     81        93        92        91
 
   CASCADES                    75        99        97        95
 
 

 EASTERN WASHINGTON
 
   EAST SLOPES CASCADES        34        92        54        87
 
   OKANOGAN                    37        70        43        78
 
   CENTRAL BASIN               42        84        52        80

 
   NORTHEAST                   79        103       77        85
 
   PALOUSE AND BLUE MOUNTAINS  54        101       76        89
 
 
 
 
 THE TABLE BELOW EXPRESSES PRECIPITATION IN INCHES AND AS A PERCENT OF

 
 NORMAL FOR A VARIETY OF LOCATIONS AROUND THE STATE.  OCCASIONALLY
 
 MISSING DATA AT A SITE ARE ESTIMATED USING OBSERVED DATA FROM
 
 SURROUNDING STATIONS.
 
 
                     APR 2008    WATER YEAR TO DATE    PAST 12 MONTHS

 
                   INCHES  PCT     INCHES     PCT      INCHES     PCT
 
 
 QUILLAYUTE*         5.56  75       73.94     88        90.74     89
 
 HOQUIAM             3.92  79       48.08     84        58.23     85

 
 BELLINGHAM          1.45  54       22.02     84        28.34     81
 
 SEATTLE             1.90  73       28.11     93        36.24     98
 
 OLYMPIA             2.33  65       38.49     90        45.66     90

 
 LONGVIEW            2.53  68       39.75     100       47.17     96 
 
 
 CONCRETE            3.41  70       52.13     90        61.85     87
 
 SNOQUALMIE FALLS    4.98  108      48.32     99        59.29     97

 
 RANDLE              4.17  93       43.25     87        51.74     85
 
 DIABLO DAM          2.29  49       63.51     96        72.42     92
 
 STAMPEDE PASS       6.37  112      71.96     106       86.16     102

 
 PARADISE            5.80  64       98.15     97        113.68    95 
 
 
 WINTHROP            0.20  26       10.19     94        12.33     82
 
 STEHEKIN*           0.50  34       28.75     91        31.71     88

 
 LEAVENWORTH*        0.37  34       17.99     83        21.07     84
 
 MOUNT ADAMS         1.40  55       37.16     97        39.19     90
 
 WENATCHEE           0.18  35       5.69      84        7.79      85

 
 YAKIMA              0.13  25       5.03      82        5.88      71
 
 
 COULEE DAM          0.47  57       4.97      69        8.06      72
 
 LIND*               0.34  42       5.92      83        7.82      79

 
 REPUBLIC            1.34  102      10.87     111       14.96     89
 
 SPOKANE             1.27  99       13.22     113       16.78     101
 
 PULLMAN             0.93  54       15.78     103       18.89     90

 
 DAYTON*             0.90  54       13.43     92        16.23     84
 
 
 * = ESTIMATED

Wildland Fires

The week of May 4-10 is Severe Weather Awareness Week in the Pacific Northwest, including the states of Idaho, Oregon and Washington. This is an excellent time for all individuals, families, businesses, schools, radio and television stations to review their spring and summer storm preparedness plans. It is especially important for new arrivals to the Pacific Northwest to become familiar with NOAA's National Weather Service Watch and Warning definitions, and their safety procedures.

Charlton Fire, near Waldo Lake Oregon (1995)

Intro

May 5

May 6

May 7

May 8

May 9

May 10

...WILDFIRE INFORMATION AND SAFETY RULES...

NOAA 's National Weather Service continues the Pacific Northwest Severe Weather Awareness Week today with fire weather. although wildfires are not a direct weather phenomenon...weather plays a large role in the ignition and spread of wildfires.

"Wildfires are a perennial hazard in the Pacific Northwest ," added John Jannuzzi, meteorologist in charge of NOAA's National Weather Service forecast office in Boise , Idaho . "Summer dryness combined with strong winds or dry lightning, can lead to significant wildfire hazards in the summer and fall."

The wildfire threat in the Pacific Northwest normally rises significantly after the middle of June. This threat usually peaks in early July and remains high through August and early September.

Most wildfires in the Pacific Northwest are ignited by lightning. Additionally, many rangeland and wheatfield fires are caused by lightning. Many of these lightning caused wildfires occur in the absence of rain. When this occurs, ightning is commonly referred to as "dry lightning." Gusty winds often accompany thunderstorms and these gusty winds accelerate the spread of fires.

Lightning that strikes the ground is divided into two categories; negative and positive strikes depending on where in the thunderstorm the lightning originates. The negative strikes are far more common and come from the base of the thunderstorm. Tthe positive strikes from the top of the cloud are more intense and are more likely to ignite a fire. Advances in lightning detection technology now provide land managers, firefighters, and weather forecasters with the ability to identify the location and type of each lightning strike within the continental United States .

Lightning is often accompanied by winds associated with thunderstorms. Occasionally, the winds are in the form of strong microbursts resulting from rapid cooling of air below the thunderstorm where rain has evaporated. These thunderstorm winds can quickly turn a smoldering fire into an inferno. Thunderstorm winds tend to be erratic in direction and speed posing one of the greatest dangers for firefighters.

NOAA's National Weather Service forecasters help land managers and firefighters by producing fire weather forecasts on a daily basis during the warm season. "Spot" fire weather forecasts are also provided for those who work on prescribed burns or wildfires. Forecasters also issue fire weather watches and red flag warnings for use by land managers when the combination of dry vegetation and critical weather conditions will result in a high fire danger.

Here are some safety tips to keep in mind during periods when a high fire potential exists in forests and rangelands.

...Always have an escape route. avoid being in areas where you might become trapped by a wildfire.

...You should avoid the use of matches or anything else which could ignite a fire.

...Make sure that hot parts of motorized equipment, such as mufflers, are not allowed to come in contact with dry grasses or other potentially flammable material.

...If you become trapped or cut-off by a fire, seek shelter in areas with little or no fuel such as rock slide areas or lakes.

For more information on wildfire safety and fire weather, visit your local noaa national weather service website or www.weather.gov.

this message is brought to you by your local NOAA National Weather Service office.

Watch and Warnings: What do they Mean?

The week of May 4-10 is Severe Weather Awareness Week in the Pacific Northwest, including the states of Idaho, Oregon and Washington. This is an excellent time for all individuals, families, businesses, schools, radio and television stations to review their spring and summer storm preparedness plans. It is especially important for new arrivals to the Pacific Northwest to become familiar with NOAA's National Weather Service Watch and Warning definitions, and their safety procedures.

Near Walden, WA.

Intro

May 5

May 6

May 7

May 8

May 9

May 10

...UNDERSTANDING OUTLOOKS…WATCHES AND WARNINGS...

During Severe Weather Awareness Week…the National Weather Service reminds you of how we serve to protect and inform you...and what actions you should take when severe weather threatens.

National Weather Service (NWS) forecasters know when weather conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop. when these conditions are expected or occurring…the NWS will issue OUTLOOKS ….WATCHES and WARNINGS to inform you of the threat. A suite of National Weather Service messages serves to heighten your awareness and alert you to actions you can take as the severe weather threat nears your location.

The National Weather Service uses a three tier approach to alert the public for the potential for severe weather. This three tier approach consists of OUTLOOKS ….WATCHES and WARNINGS.

OUTLOOKS

Everyday…NWS forecasters in the Pacific Northwest assess the chance for severe weather. A hazardous weather outlook is issued to alert people when conditions are favorable for severe weather to develop within the next few days.

WATCHES

A Severe Weather Watch is issued by the National Weather Service when conditions are favorable for severe thunderstorms or tornadoes to develop. A watch is usually issued for large areas involving many counties. It heightens your awareness of the possibility of severe weather in the next several hours. If you are in the area covered by a watch...continue with your normal activities...but at the same time make a plan where you would go for shelter if severe weather were to strike suddenly. If high winds is a primary threat...tying down or bringing loose objects indoors is a good idea.

NWS Storm Prediction Center and NWS offices serving the Pacific Northwest will issue a will issue a TEST Severe Thunderstorm Watch as part of the awareness campaign. This will be a good opportunity for county emergency management and community officials to exercise their preparedness plans upon receipt of the test severe thunderstorm watch product.

WARNINGS

A Severe Weather Warning is an urgent message to tell you that severe weather is imminent or occurring . Warnings are usually for small areas...part of a county...or a county or two at a time. A severe thunderstorm or tornado warning is usually in effect for 30 minutes to one hour. Your immediate action is necessary if you are in the path of the storm.

In times of severe weather...you can get all these vital National Weather Service messages on NOAA All Hazards Weather Radio. Many weather radio receivers have a built in tone alarm...that is activated by the National Weather Service when watches and warnings are issued. you can also get weather information...based on national weather service products...from your local radio or television stations or from our web page at weather.gov .

Public information statements will be issued throughout the week to give safety information...and help you know how to respond when severe weather threatens.

Additional information can also be found on the web at: http://weather.gov .

NOAA's All Hazards/Weather Radio

The week of May 4-10 is Severe Weather Awareness Week in the Pacific Northwest, including the states of Idaho, Oregon and Washington. This is an excellent time for all individuals, families, businesses, schools, radio and television stations to review their spring and summer storm preparedness plans. It is especially important for new arrivals to the Pacific Northwest to become familiar with NOAA's National Weather Service Watch and Warning definitions, and their safety procedures.

Mark Trail is a sponsor of NOAA Weather Radio.

Intro

May 5

May 6

May 7

May 8

May 9

May 10

...NOAA WEATHER RADIO / All HAZARDS INFORMATION…

NOAA Weather Radio uses the emergency alert system to alarm radios when warnings are issued.

What is the emergency alert system?

The emergency alert system / EAS / is used by all broadcasters throughout the United States as a means of alerting the public to life and property threatening situations. A digital burst of data contains information about the danger such as what the threat is…where it is…and when the threat will exist. When the EAS system is activated either a voice is heard and/or a voice and text crawl for TV is displayed describing the threat. Specially built radio and TV receivers are also capable of turning themselves on upon receipt of an EAS signal. So even if your radio is off…if an alarm is transmitted...your radio will turn on and notify you of the threat.

Where can you get radios and TVs that are EAS equipped?

Ask your local electronic's dealer or search the internet for products that are emergency alert system enabled. Inexpensive NOAA weather radios that are EAS enabled are available for purchase at a variety of electronic stores. EAS enabled TVs are relatively new but are also available. Most of the NOAA weather radio receivers can be placed in a silent standby mode ready to sound the alarm when a warning is issued. A list of all hazards radios can be found at weather.gov/nwr.

What kind of warnings are transmitted with the eas signal?

Most warnings across the country are weather related. In tornado alley most warnings are either tornado or severe thunderstorm warnings. Iin flash flood prone areas like the Desert Southwest…many of the warnings are for flash floods. Iin many parts of the Pacific Northwest...there could be a mix of all three.

In addition to weather warnings…EAS can be used by local civil authorities to warn of a child abduction emergency or hazardous materials spill such as a tanker truck accident involving dangerous chemicals.

What should I do when an EAS warning is heard on radio or TV?

Listen carefully to the message. When an EAS activation occurs the broadcaster...or text message on TV...will describe the reason for the activation…the location where the threat exists…and the time frame when the hazard is expected to exist. Iinstructions on how to avoid the threat may also be part of the message.

The EAS system is tested on weekly and monthly basis. The National Weather Service also conducts tests on the NOAA Weather Radio usually on Wednesday morning. Listen for the tests so you recognize what an EAS activation sounds like. When a real activation takes place... you will be able to immediately recognize the EAS sound.

How do I hear NOAA Weather Radio?

NOAA Weather Radio is broadcast on frequencies ranging from 162.400 mhz to 162.550 mhz. This frequency range is just above the normal FM band. Special NOAA Weather Radio receivers can be purchased or many multi band radios also include the NOAA Weather Radio frequencies. You can check for your nearest transmitter at weather.gov/nwr.

When important information must be relayed quickly to the public…EAS will most likely be used. When you hear the EAS alert signal…pay attention to the information and take appropriate action. The information you hear will keep you out of harms way.

**************************************************************************************************

This week is Severe Weather Awareness week in the Pacific Northwest. Now is the time to get prepared for thunderstorms and tornadoes. Public information statements will be issued throughout the week to give safety information...and help you know how to respond when severe weather threatens.

additional information can be found on the web at: http://weather.gov .

Short Term Forecast

SHORT TERM FORECAST
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SEATTLE WA
1158 AM PDT SAT MAY 10 2008

PZZ132>135-WAZ503>512-514-102200-
EAST ENTRANCE U.S. WATERS STRAIT OF JUAN DE FUCA-
NORTHERN INLAND WATERS INCLUDING THE SAN JUAN ISLANDS-

ADMIRALTY INLET-PUGET SOUND AND HOOD CANAL-WESTERN WHATCOM COUNTY-
SOUTHWEST INTERIOR-EAST PUGET SOUND LOWLANDS-WESTERN SKAGIT COUNTY-
EVERETT AND VICINITY-SEATTLE/BREMERTON AREA-TACOMA AREA-
ADMIRALTY INLET AREA-HOOD CANAL AREA-LOWER CHEHALIS VALLEY AREA-

EASTERN STRAIT OF JUAN DE FUCA-
1158 AM PDT SAT MAY 10 2008

.NOW...THE WEAK COLD FRONT OVER WESTERN WASHINGTON IS GENERATING
ONLY A FEW SPRINKLES THIS AFTERNOON. EXPECT CLOUDY SKIES BUT WITH
LITTLE OR NO RAIN TO LAST THROUGH THE EARLY AFTERNOON. LATER THIS

AFTERNOON A LITTLE LIGHT RAIN OR SCATTERED SHOWERS WILL DEVELOP.


$$

Special Weather Statement

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SEATTLE WA
440 PM PDT TUE MAY 13 2008

WAZ001-503>509-511>513-516>519-141145-
SAN JUAN COUNTY-WESTERN WHATCOM COUNTY-SOUTHWEST INTERIOR-

EAST PUGET SOUND LOWLANDS-WESTERN SKAGIT COUNTY-EVERETT AND VICINITY-
SEATTLE/BREMERTON AREA-TACOMA AREA-HOOD CANAL AREA-
LOWER CHEHALIS VALLEY AREA-OLYMPICS-NORTH COAST-CENTRAL COAST-
WEST SLOPES NORTHERN CASCADES AND PASSES-

WEST SLOPES CENTRAL CASCADES AND PASSES-
440 PM PDT TUE MAY 13 2008

...UNSEASONABLY HOT WEATHER TO AFFECT WESTERN WASHINGTON FROM
THURSDAY THROUGH SATURDAY..

AFTER A COOL AND CLOUDY SPRING IN WESTERN WASHINGTON...A DRAMATIC

SHIFT TO HOT AND SUNNY WEATHER WILL TAKE PLACE STARTING THURSDAY.

THE HOTTEST LOCATIONS ON THURSDAY WILL BE ALONG THE COAST...WHERE
HIGH TEMPERATURES WILL APPROACH 80 DEGREES. OVER THE INTERIOR...A
COOL NORTHERLY WIND DOWN PUGET SOUND WILL HOLD TEMPERATURES BACK

ONLY IN THE 70S.

ON AVERAGE...FRIDAY WILL BE THE HOTTEST DAY IN WESTERN WASHINGTON.
NEARLY ALL LOWLAND LOCATIONS MORE THAN A MILE OR TWO FROM
SALTWATER WILL REACH AT LEAST THE MID AND UPPER 80S...WHILE
LOCATIONS FROM OLYMPIA SOUTH THROUGH LEWIS COUNTY SHOULD REACH

THE LOWER 90S.

SATURDAY AND SUNDAY SHOULD SEE SOME COOLING ALONG THE
COAST...WHERE DAYTIME TEMPERATURES SHOULD FALL BACK INTO THE 70S.
HOWEVER...INTERIOR LOCATIONS ALONG THE I-5 CORRIDOR SHOULD STILL
BE QUITE WARM WITH DAYTIME TEMPERATURES WELL INTO THE 80S AGAIN.

THE UNSEASONABLY WARM WEATHER IS EXPECTED TO END ON MONDAY OF NEXT
WEEK.

SEVERAL RECORD HIGH TEMPERATURES WILL BE IN JEOPARDY FROM THURSDAY
THROUGH SATURDAY. THE FOLLOWING TABLE COMPARES THE OFFICIAL NWS
FORECAST WITH RECORD HIGHS AT A FEW LOCATIONS. ASTERICES INDICATE

RECORDS THAT WOULD BE BROKEN OR TIED BASED ON THE CURRENT FORECAST.

             THURSDAY  FRIDAY  SATURDAY
LOCATION     FCST REC FCST REC FCST REC

BELLINGHAM   71   79   82* 78  79   81
SEA-TAC ARPT 74   85   88* 84  85*  85

OLYMPIA ARPT 77   85   91* 86  86   90
QUILLAYUTE   75   85   83  86  74   82
HOQUIAM      81   88   85  88  74   87

THOUGH IT IS NOT FORECAST...IF SEA-TAC AIRPORT REACHES 90 DEGREES
DURING THE UPCOMING HOT SPELL...IT WOULD BE THE EARLIEST 90-DEGREE

DAY ON RECORD AT SEA-TAC. CURRENTLY...THE EARLIEST OCCURRENCE OF
90-DEGREE WEATHER OCCURRED ON MAY 20 1963. ..WHEN THE HIGH REACHED
92 DEGREES.

AFTER SUCH COOL WEATHER THIS SPRING...PEOPLE SHOULD REFRESH
THEMSELVES ON BASIC HOT WEATHER TIPS. WHEN THE WEATHER WARMS

UP...BE SURE TO DRINK PLENTY OF WATER...WEAR LIGHTWEIGHT AND LIGHT
COLORED CLOTHING...AND BE SURE TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM SUNBURN BY
WEARING SUNSCREEN AND A HAT.

WHEN THE WEATHER HEATS UP...IT MAY BE TEMPTING TO JUMP INTO AREA

LAKES AND RIVERS...SOME OF WHICH WILL HAVE SLIGHTLY ELEVATED
LEVELS DUE TO SNOWMELT BROUGHT ON BY THE HOT WEATHER. KEEP IN MIND
THAT MOST LAKE WATER TEMPERATURES ARE STILL IN THE 40S AFTER THE
COOL SPRING WEATHER. RIVERS FED WITH SNOWMELT COULD EASILY HAVE

WATER TEMPERATURES IN THE 30S. DURING SPRING HEAT WAVES OF THIS
MAGNITUDE...IT CAN BE AN IRONIC TWIST OF FATE FOR PEOPLE TO
ESCAPE THE HEAT BY JUMPING INTO RIVER AND LAKES...ONLY TO SUFFER
OR EVEN DIE FROM THE HYPOTHERMIA BROUGHT ON BY THE FRIGID WATER

TEMPERATURES. DESPITE THE HOT WEATHER...PEOPLE SHOULD STILL USE
COLD WATER SAFETY PRACTICES BY WEARING A WETSUIT WHEN GOING INTO
SUCH COLD WATERS.

LASTLY...WITH PLENTY OF SNOW STILL LEFT IN THE MOUNTAINS...THE

CURRENT RAIN SYSTEM AND THE UPCOMING HOT SPELL WILL PROVIDE
SUBSTANTIALLY INCREASING AVALANCHE DANGER THIS WEEK. PLEASE REFER
TO LATEST FORECASTS AND STATEMENTS FROM THE NORTHWEST WEATHER AND
AVALANCHE CENTER AT WWW.NWAC.US.


$$

HANER

RECORD REPORT

 
 SXUS76 KSEW 140130
 RERSEW
 
 RECORD EVENT REPORT 
 NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SEATTLE, WA
 630 PM PDT TUE MAY 13 2008
 
 ...RECORD DAILY MAXIMUM RAINFALL SET AT SEATTLE WFO...
 
 A RECORD RAINFALL OF 0.28 INCHES WAS SET AT SEATTLE WFO TODAY. THIS 

 BREAKS THE OLD RECORD OF 0.26 SET IN 1996.

Special Weather Statement

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SEATTLE WA
410 PM PDT WED MAY 14 2008

WAZ001-503>509-511>513-516>519-151200-
SAN JUAN COUNTY-WESTERN WHATCOM COUNTY-SOUTHWEST INTERIOR-

EAST PUGET SOUND LOWLANDS-WESTERN SKAGIT COUNTY-EVERETT AND VICINITY-
SEATTLE/BREMERTON AREA-TACOMA AREA-HOOD CANAL AREA-
LOWER CHEHALIS VALLEY AREA-OLYMPICS-NORTH COAST-CENTRAL COAST-
WEST SLOPES NORTHERN CASCADES AND PASSES-

WEST SLOPES CENTRAL CASCADES AND PASSES-
410 PM PDT WED MAY 14 2008

...UNSEASONABLY HOT WEATHER WILL AFFECT WESTERN WASHINGTON FROM
THURSDAY THROUGH SATURDAY..

AFTER A COOL AND CLOUDY SPRING IN WESTERN WASHINGTON...A DRAMATIC

SHIFT TO HOT AND SUNNY WEATHER WILL TAKE PLACE STARTING THURSDAY.
WIDESPREAD RECORD HOT TEMPERATURES ARE EXPECTED ON FRIDAY.

TEMPERATURES WILL BEGIN TO CLIMB ON THURSDAY...AS A MASSIVE AREA OF
HIGH PRESSURE IN THE UPPER ATMOSPHERE BUILDS OVER THE REGION. WEAK

NORTHERLY ONSHORE FLOW WILL KEEP TEMPERATURES FROM GETTING REALLY
HOT. STILL...HIGH TEMPERATURES ACROSS MUCH OF WESTERN WASHINGTON
WILL BE IN THE 70S AND LOWER 80S.

FRIDAY WILL BE THE HOTTEST DAY FOR MANY SPOTS IN WESTERN

WASHINGTON...AND MANY RECORD HIGH TEMPERATURES ARE FORECAST TO
OCCUR. FROM THE COAST TO THE PUGET SOUND REGION...TEMPERATURES WILL
RISE INTO THE MID AND UPPER 80S. THE EAST PUGET SOUND LOWLANDS AND
THE SOUTHWEST INTERIOR WILL EXPERIENCE LOWER 90S.


TEMPERATURES ALONG THE COAST WILL BE A BIT COOLER SATURDAY...AS
THE LOW LEVEL FLOW BEGINS TO TURN ONSHORE AGAIN. BUT HIGH
TEMPERATURES OVER THE INTERIOR LOWLANDS ON SATURDAY WILL BE
SIMILAR TO FRIDAY.


SUNDAY IS EXPECTED TO BE COOLER FOR ALL OF WESTERN WASHINGTON AS
COOLER MARINE AIR FROM THE PACIFIC SPREADS INLAND. A DEEPER LAYER OF
MARINE AIR WILL LIKELY PUSH INLAND SUNDAY NIGHT...MARKING A RETURN
TO MORE TYPICAL MAY WEATHER FOR EARLY NEXT WEEK.


SEVERAL RECORD HIGH TEMPERATURES WILL BE IN JEOPARDY ON FRIDAY AND
SATURDAY. THE FOLLOWING TABLE COMPARES THE OFFICIAL NATIONAL WEATHER
SERVICE FORECAST WITH RECORD HIGHS AT A FEW LOCATIONS. ASTERICES
INDICATE RECORDS THAT WOULD BE BROKEN OR TIED BASED ON THE CURRENT

FORECAST.

                 FRIDAY             SATURDAY
LOCATION       FCST   RECORD      FCST   RECORD

BELLINGHAM      83*     78         81*     81
SEA-TAC ARPT    88*     84         87*     85
OLYMPIA ARPT    90*     86         87      90

QUILLAYUTE      83      86         73      82
HOQUIAM         89*     88         74      87

THOUGH IT IS NOT FORECAST...IT IS POSSIBLE THAT SEA-TAC AIRPORT
COULD REACH 90 DEGREES. IF THIS WERE TO HAPPEN...IT WOULD BE THE

EARLIEST 90-DEGREE DAY ON RECORD AT SEA-TAC. THE EARLIEST OCCURRENCE
OF 90-DEGREE WEATHER OCCURRED ON MAY 20 1963. ..WHEN THE HIGH REACHED
92 DEGREES.

AFTER SUCH COOL WEATHER THIS SPRING...PEOPLE SHOULD REFRESH

THEMSELVES ON BASIC HOT WEATHER TIPS. WHEN THE WEATHER WARMS UP...BE
SURE TO SLOW DOWN...DRINK PLENTY OF WATER...WEAR LIGHTWEIGHT AND
LIGHT COLORED CLOTHING...AND BE SURE TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM
SUNBURN BY WEARING SUNSCREEN AND A HAT. BY SATURDAY...THE HUMIDITY

WILL RISE A BIT TOO AND MAKE THE AIR FEEL MUGGY. THE ELDERLY AND THE
VERY YOUNG ARE THE MOST LIKELY GROUPS TO EXPERIENCE ADVERSE HEALTH
EFFECTS FROM THE HEAT.

WHEN THE WEATHER GETS HOT...IT MAY BE TEMPTING TO JUMP INTO AREA

LAKES AND RIVERS...SOME OF WHICH WILL BE SWOLLEN DUE TO RAPID
SNOWMELT. KEEP IN MIND THAT LAKE WATER TEMPERATURES ARE STILL IN THE
40S AFTER THE COOL SPRING WEATHER. RIVERS FED WITH SNOWMELT COULD
EASILY HAVE WATER TEMPERATURES IN THE 30S. DURING SPRING HEAT WAVES

OF THIS MAGNITUDE...IT IS IRONIC THAT SWIMMERS HAVE DIED OF
HYPOTHERMIA AFTER JUMPING INTO FRIGID RIVER OR LAKE WATERS TO ESCAPE
THE HEAT. DESPITE THE HOT WEATHER...PEOPLE SHOULD STILL USE COLD
WATER SAFETY PRACTICES BY WEARING A WETSUIT WHEN GOING INTO SUCH

COLD WATERS.

LASTLY...WITH PLENTY OF SNOW STILL LEFT IN THE MOUNTAINS...THE
NORTHWEST WEATHER AND AVALANCHE CENTER IS FORECASTING A WIDESPREAD
SPRING AVALANCHE CYCLE...AND AN AVALANCHE WARNING IS ISSUED FOR

THURSDAY THROUGH SATURDAY. PLEASE REFER TO THE LATEST STATEMENTS
FROM THE NORTHWEST WEATHER AND AVALANCHE CENTER AT WWW.NWAC.US.

$$

HANER

Avalanche Warning

WAZ513-518-519-019-ORZ011-151700-

OLYMPICS-
WEST SLOPES NORTH CASCADES AND PASSES-
WEST SLOPES CENTRAL CASCADES AND PASSES-
SOUTH WASHINGTON CASCADES-
NORTH OREGON CASCADES-


...AVALANCHE WARNING FROM THURSDAY THROUGH SATURDAY..

A major change in the weather pattern is about to be experienced
over the Northwest, producing sunny and hot weather beginning
Thursday and continuing through the weekend.


This upcoming hot weather is expected to cause a widespread
spring avalanche cycle in most areas starting Thursday. Deep
avalanches are possible. Some slides may release to or near the
ground involving the entire winters snowpack. The expected

large wet snow avalanches may travel very fast and run long
distances, possibly to lower elevations where little or no
snowcover may remain or to valley floors.

We do not recommend back country travel near any avalanche

terrain Thursday and Friday and likely through the weekend. Back
country travelers should also avoid slopes below cornices or
gullies and flat areas below avalanche run out zones.

This statement will be updated as conditions warrant.


$$

Backcountry travelers should be aware that elevation and
geographic distinctions are approximate and that a transition
zone between dangers exists.  Remember there are avalanche safe
areas in the mountains during all levels of avalanche danger.

Contact local authorities in your area of interest for further
information.

NWAC weather data and forecasts are also available by calling
206-526-6677 for Washington, 503-808-2400 for the Mt Hood area,
or by visiting our Web site at www.nwac.us.


Kramer/Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center

$$

Special Weather Statement

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SEATTLE WA
340 PM PDT THU MAY 15 2008

WAZ001-503>519-161245-
SAN JUAN COUNTY-WESTERN WHATCOM COUNTY-SOUTHWEST INTERIOR-
EAST PUGET SOUND LOWLANDS-WESTERN SKAGIT COUNTY-EVERETT AND VICINITY-

SEATTLE/BREMERTON AREA-TACOMA AREA-ADMIRALTY INLET AREA-
HOOD CANAL AREA-LOWER CHEHALIS VALLEY AREA-OLYMPICS-
EASTERN STRAIT OF JUAN DE FUCA-WESTERN STRAIT OF JUAN DE FUCA-
NORTH COAST-CENTRAL COAST-WEST SLOPES NORTHERN CASCADES AND PASSES-

WEST SLOPES CENTRAL CASCADES AND PASSES-
340 PM PDT THU MAY 15 2008

...UNSEASONABLY HOT WEATHER WILL AFFECT WESTERN WASHINGTON THROUGH
SATURDAY..

AFTER A COOL AND CLOUDY SPRING IN WESTERN WASHINGTON...A DRAMATIC

SHIFT TO HOT AND SUNNY WEATHER WILL OCCUR THROUGH SATURDAY.

FRIDAY WILL BE THE HOTTEST DAY FOR MANY SPOTS IN WESTERN
WASHINGTON...AND MANY RECORD HIGH TEMPERATURES ARE FORECAST TO
OCCUR. FROM THE COAST TO THE PUGET SOUND REGION...TEMPERATURES WILL

RISE INTO THE MID 80S TO LOWER 90S. TEMPERATURES RIGHT NEAR THE
WATERS OF THE STRAIT OF JUAN DE FUCA AND PUGET SOUND WILL BE A BIT
COOLER.

TEMPERATURES ALONG THE COAST WILL BE A BIT COOLER SATURDAY...AS
THE LOW LEVEL FLOW BEGINS TO TURN ONSHORE AGAIN. BUT HIGH

TEMPERATURES OVER THE INTERIOR LOWLANDS ON SATURDAY WILL BE
SIMILAR TO FRIDAY.

SUNDAY IS EXPECTED TO BE COOLER FOR ALL OF WESTERN WASHINGTON AS
MARINE AIR FROM THE PACIFIC OCEAN SPREADS INLAND. A DEEPER LAYER

OF MARINE AIR WILL PUSH INLAND SUNDAY NIGHT...MARKING A RETURN TO
MORE TYPICAL MAY WEATHER FOR EARLY NEXT WEEK.

SEVERAL RECORD HIGH TEMPERATURES ARE EXPORTED TO BE BROKEN FRIDAY
AND SATURDAY. THE FOLLOWING TABLE COMPARES THE OFFICIAL NATIONAL

WEATHER SERVICE FORECAST WITH RECORD HIGHS AT A FEW LOCATIONS.
ASTERICES INDICATE RECORDS THAT WOULD BE BROKEN OR TIED BASED ON THE
CURRENT FORECAST.

                 FRIDAY             SATURDAY
LOCATION       FCST  RECORD/YEAR   FCST  RECORD/YEAR


BELLINGHAM      83*     78/1985     81*     81/1956
SEA-TAC ARPT    88*     84/1985     88*     85/1956
OLYMPIA ARPT    90*     86/1985     87      90/1956
QUILLAYUTE      87*     86/1985     73      82/1993

HOQUIAM         89*     88/1985     73      87/1958

OTHER RECORDS LIKELY TO FALL THAT ARE NOT OFFICIAL FORECAST POINTS

STAMPEDE PASS           78/2006     85/2006
SEATTLE NWS             82/2006     80/1993


THOUGH IT IS NOT FORECAST...IT IS POSSIBLE THAT SEA-TAC AIRPORT
COULD REACH 90 DEGREES ON FRIDAY OR SATURDAY. IF THIS WERE TO
HAPPEN...IT WOULD BE THE EARLIEST 90-DEGREE DAY ON RECORD AT SEA-
TAC. THE EARLIEST OCCURRENCE OF 90-DEGREE WEATHER OCCURRED ON MAY

20 1963. ..WHEN THE HIGH REACHED 92 DEGREES.

AFTER SUCH COOL WEATHER THIS SPRING...PEOPLE SHOULD REFRESH
THEMSELVES ON BASIC HOT WEATHER TIPS. WHEN THE WEATHER WARMS UP...BE
SURE TO SLOW DOWN...DRINK PLENTY OF WATER...WEAR LIGHTWEIGHT AND

LIGHT COLORED CLOTHING...AND BE SURE TO PROTECT YOURSELF FROM
SUNBURN BY WEARING SUNSCREEN AND A HAT. THE ELDERLY AND THE VERY
YOUNG ARE THE MOST LIKELY GROUPS TO EXPERIENCE ADVERSE HEALTH
EFFECTS FROM THE HEAT.


WHEN THE WEATHER GETS HOT...IT MAY BE TEMPTING TO JUMP INTO AREA
LAKES AND RIVERS...SOME OF WHICH WILL BE SWOLLEN DUE TO RAPID
SNOWMELT. KEEP IN MIND THAT LAKE WATER TEMPERATURES ARE STILL IN THE
40S WITH STREAMS AND RIVERS IN THE 30S. DURING SPRING HEAT WAVES OF

THIS MAGNITUDE...IT IS IRONIC THAT SWIMMERS HAVE DIED OF HYPOTHERMIA
AFTER JUMPING INTO FRIGID RIVER OR LAKE WATERS TO ESCAPE THE HEAT.
DESPITE THE HOT WEATHER...PEOPLE SHOULD STILL USE COLD WATER SAFETY
PRACTICES BY WEARING A WETSUIT WHEN GOING INTO SUCH COLD WATERS.


LASTLY...WITH PLENTY OF SNOW STILL LEFT IN THE MOUNTAINS...THE
NORTHWEST WEATHER AND AVALANCHE CENTER IS FORECASTING A WIDESPREAD
SPRING AVALANCHE CYCLE...AND AN AVALANCHE WARNING IS ISSUED THROUGH
SATURDAY. AN AVALANCHE HAS ALREADY CLOSED THE NORTH CASCADES HIGHWAY

SO THE THREAT IS ALREADY HERE. PLEASE REFER TO THE LATEST STATEMENTS
FROM THE NORTHWEST WEATHER AND AVALANCHE CENTER AT WWW.NWAC.US.

$$

CERNIGLIA

HYDROLOGIC OUTLOOK

 
 FGUS76 KSEW 152240
 ESFSEW
 WAC009-027-031-033-041-045-053-057-061-067-073-161045-
 
 HYDROLOGIC OUTLOOK
 NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SEATTLE WA
 340 PM PDT THU MAY 15 2008
 
 ...MINOR FLOODING POSSIBLE THIS WEEKEND WITH MELTING SNOW... 

 
 SUNNY AND WARM OR HOT WEATHER OVER THE NEXT SEVERAL DAYS WILL RESULT 
 IN RAPID SNOW MELT AND RIVERS SWOLLEN WITH COLD SWIFT WATER.  MOST 
 WESTERN WASHINGTON RIVERS THAT FLOW OFF OF THE CASCADE OR OLYMPIC 

 MOUNTAINS WILL BE AFFECTED. RIVER LEVELS ARE ELEVATED DUE TO THE
 RECENT RAIN AND BEFORE THEY CAN RECEDE MUCH...SNOW MELT WILL SEND
 THEM HIGHER AGAIN BEGINNING TONIGHT OR TOMORROW. WHILE NO SIGNIFICANT
 FLOODING IS EXPECTED...THERE MAY BE SOME MINOR FLOODING PROBLEMS

 BEGINNING FRIDAY AND LASTING THROUGH THE WEEKEND. AT THE SAME TIME...THE
 WARM SUNNY WEATHER WILL ENTICE MANY TO MOUNTAINS...LAKES...AND
 STREAMS FOR RECREATION AND TO ESCAPE THE HEAT.
 
 MANY MOUNTAIN STREAMS WILL BE BANK FULL OR OVERFLOWING MAKING IT

 DANGEROUS FOR STREAM CROSSINGS OR RECREATING IN THE VICINITY OF
 THE STREAMS.
 
 RIVERS WILL BE FLOWING MUCH HIGHER THAN NORMAL WITH MANY NEAR 
 HISTORICAL MAXIMUM LEVELS FOR THESE DATES IN MAY.  IN ADDITION... 

 WATER TEMPERATURES IN MOUNTAIN STREAMS ARE QUITE COLD...RUNNING AT 
 MID 30S TO LOWER 40 DEGREES.  THESE CONDITIONS CREATE POTENTIALLY 
 DANGEROUS SITUATIONS FOR SWIMMING...FLOATING...OR BOATING ETC. 
 CURRENTS WILL BE STRONGER AND FASTER THAN NORMAL FOR THIS TIME OF 

 YEAR. AND WITH THE COLD WATER TEMPERATURES...HYPOTHERMIA AND/OR
 DROWNING IS A RISK FROM BEING IN OR FALLING INTO THE WATER.
 
 THERE IS A THREAT FOR SOME RIVERS TO RISE TO NEAR FLOOD STAGE.  
 AT THIS TIME THE NISQUALLY RIVER NEAR NATIONAL AND THE WHITE RIVER 

 BELOW MUD MOUNTAIN DAM ARE THE MOST AT RISK. MINOR TO NO FLOODING
 IMPACTS ARE ANTICIPATED SHOULD THE RIVERS REACH THESE LEVELS.
 
 A FLOOD WATCH MAY BE ISSUED TONIGHT OR TOMORROW IF THE SITUATION 
 WARRANTS.  EXPECT RIVER FORECASTS TO CHANGE DURING THIS EVENT SO 

 PLEASE PAY CLOSE ATTENTION TO THE SITUATION AS IT UNFOLDS.

Avalanche Warning

WAZ513-518-519-019-ORZ011-171700-

OLYMPICS-
WEST SLOPES NORTH CASCADES AND PASSES-
WEST SLOPES CENTRAL CASCADES AND PASSES-
SOUTH WASHINGTON CASCADES-
NORTH OREGON CASCADES-


...AVALANCHE WARNING THURSDAY THROUGH SATURDAY..

The Pacific Northwest is currently undergoing a major change in
the recent weather pattern. Sunny and hot weather is beginning
Thursday and continuing through the weekend.


This upcoming hot weather is expected to cause a widespread
spring avalanche cycle in most areas starting later Thursday.
Deep avalanches are possible. Some slides may release to or near
the ground involving the entire winters snowpack. The expected

large wet snow avalanches may travel very fast and run long
distances, possibly to lower elevations where little or no snow
cover remains or to valley floors.

We do not recommend back country travel near any avalanche

terrain Thursday and Friday and likely through the weekend. Back
country travelers should also avoid slopes below cornices or
gullies and flat areas below avalanche run out zones.

This statement will be updated as conditions warrant.


$$

Backcountry travelers should be aware that elevation and
geographic distinctions are approximate and that a transition
zone between dangers exists.  Remember there are avalanche safe
areas in the mountains during all levels of avalanche danger.

Contact local authorities in your area of interest for further
information.

NWAC weather data and forecasts are also available by calling
206-526-6677 for Washington, 503-808-2400 for the Mt Hood area,
or by visiting our Web site at www.nwac.us.


Kramer/Northwest Weather and Avalanche Center

$$

Watering Need

	Tonight Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat N/A V.High V.High V.High V.High High High V.High High High

Wind Speed

	Tonight Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 8 mph 5 mph 7 mph 7 mph 5 mph 7 mph 7 mph 6 mph 6 mph 7 mph

UV Index

0 Low    10+ Extreme

	Tonight Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat -- 6 6 5 5 4 5 7 6 7

Special Weather Statement

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SEATTLE WA
546 AM PDT SAT MAY 17 2008

WAZ503>509-511-518-519-180100-
WESTERN WHATCOM COUNTY-SOUTHWEST INTERIOR-EAST PUGET SOUND LOWLANDS-

WESTERN SKAGIT COUNTY-EVERETT AND VICINITY-SEATTLE/BREMERTON AREA-
TACOMA AREA-HOOD CANAL AREA-WEST SLOPES NORTHERN CASCADES AND PASSES-
WEST SLOPES CENTRAL CASCADES AND PASSES-
546 AM PDT SAT MAY 17 2008


...WELL ABOVE NORMAL TEMPERATURES ARE EXPECTED ACROSS MUCH OF
INTERIOR WESTERN WASHINGTON TODAY..

...AREA RIVERS AND LAKES WILL BE TOO DANGEROUS FOR SWIMMING..

...A FLOOD WATCH REMAINS POSTED FOR THE RIVERS IN KING...PIERCE..

AND LEWIS COUNTIES THROUGH SUNDAY EVENING..

STRONG...HIGH PRESSURE ALOFT COMBINED WITH LOW LEVEL OFFSHORE
FLOW THIS MORNING WILL RESULT IN WELL ABOVE NORMAL TEMPERATURES
ACROSS MUCH OF THE INTERIOR TODAY. HIGHS TODAY WILL GENERALLY BE

IN THE UPPER 70S TO UPPER 80S...WITH SOME CASCADE VALLEYS LIKELY
CLIMBING INTO THE 90S. SOME SPOTS COULD END UP WITH RECORD OR
NEAR RECORD TEMPERATURES TODAY. THE PREDICTED TEMPERATURE FOR
SEA-TAC WAS 86 DEGREES. IF THIS TEMPERATURE IS REACHED...IT WOULD

BREAK THE OLD RECORD OF 85 DEGREES SET BACK IN 1956.

ALTHOUGH IT WILL BE VERY TEMPTING TO JUMP INTO AREA LAKES AND
RIVERS TO ESCAPE THE HEAT...IT WOULD NOT BE WISE TO DO SO. WATER
TEMPERATURES WERE STILL FRIGID OR TOO COLD FOR SWIMMING WITHOUT A

WETSUIT. RIVERS WERE ALSO RUNNING HIGH AND SWIFT DUE TO SPRING
SNOW MELT. THUS JUMPING INTO AN AREA LAKE OR RIVER COULD RESULT IN
A QUICK DEATH DUE TO HYPOTHERMIA OR DROWNING AS MUSCLES CRAMP UP
FROM THE COLD.


DURING HOT SPELLS...DRINK PLENTY OF WATER...AVOID OVEREXERTION..
LIMIT TIME SPENT IN DIRECT SUNLIGHT...AND CHECK UP ON ELDERLY
RELATIVES OR NEIGHBORS. ALSO...PROTECT PETS FROM THE DANGERS OF
HOT WEATHER. NEVER LEAVE THEM IN A PARKED CAR ON A HOT DAY.


FOR THOSE PLANNING ON BACK COUNTRY HIKING IN THE MOUNTAINS..
PLEASE BE AWARE THAT THERE IS AN AVALANCHE WARNING IN EFFECT
FOR THE BACK COUNTRY TERRAIN...BELOW 7000 FEET...OF THE OLYMPICS
AND CASCADES TODAY. FOR MORE DETAILS...VISIT THE NORTHWEST

WEATHER AND AVALANCHE CENTER WEB SITE AT WWW.NWAC.US.

EXPECT MUCH COOLER WEATHER ACROSS THE AREA ON SUNDAY DUE TO
INCREASED ONSHORE FLOW.

$$

RECORD REPORT

 
 SXUS76 KSEW 170832
 RERSEW
 
 RECORD EVENT REPORT 
 NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SEATTLE WA
 130 AM PDT SAT MAY 17 2008
 
 ...RECORD HIGH TEMPERATURES ACROSS WESTERN WASHINGTON YESTERDAY..

 
                     FRIDAY MAY 16TH 2008
 
                 TODAY              OLD RECORD
 
 SEA-TAC           84 TIED             84 1985  
 
 HOQUIAM           93                  88 1985 
 

 QUILLAYUTE        91                  86 1985

RECORD REPORT

 
 SXUS76 KSEW 180130
 RERSEW
 
 RECORD EVENT REPORT 
 NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SEATTLE WA
 630 PM PDT SAT MAY 17 2008
 
 ...2ND DAY OF RECORD HIGH TEMPERATURES ACROSS WESTERN WASHINGTON...

 
                     SATURDAY MAY 17TH 2008
 
                 TODAY              OLD RECORD
 
 SEA-TAC*          90                 85 1956
 *EARLIEST 90 DEGREE TEMPERATURE ON RECORD 
 
 WFO SEATTLE       90                 80 1993

 
 OLYMPIA           91                 90 1956 
 
 BELLINGHAM        82                 81 1956 
 
 
                      FRIDAY MAY 16TH 2008
 
                 TODAY              OLD RECORD

 
 SEA-TAC           84 TIED             84 1985  
 
 HOQUIAM           93                  88 1985 
 
 QUILLAYUTE        91                  86 1985

LOCAL STORM REPORT

 
 NWUS56 KSEW 181830
 LSRSEW
 
 PRELIMINARY LOCAL STORM REPORT
 NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE SEATTLE WA
 1130 AM PDT SUN MAY 18 2008
 
 ..TIME...   ...EVENT...      ...CITY LOCATION...     ...LAT.LON...

 ..DATE...   ....MAG....      ..COUNTY LOCATION..ST.. ...SOURCE....
             ..REMARKS..
 
 1128 AM     FLOOD            2 WNW RANDLE            46.54N 121.99W
 05/18/2008                   LEWIS              WA   TRAINED SPOTTER 

 
             MINOR FLOODING IS OCCURRING ON COWLITZ RIVER NEAR RANDLE.
             SEVERAL ROADS ARE UNDERWATER.

• Mt. Baker: 44F under Mostly Cloudy skies.  SE wind around 5 mph.  Chance of light rain.
  
• Ferndale: 51F under Partly Sunny skies.  SW wind around 5 mph.  Slight chance of a light shower, drizzle, or sprinkle.
• Fairhaven: 54F under Partly Sunny skies.  WSW wind 5 to 10 mph.  Slight chance of a light shower, drizzle, or sprinkle.
  

• Mt. Baker: 48F under Mostly Cloudy skies.  SE wind around 5 mph.  Chance of light rain.
• Ferndale: 54F under Partly Sunny skies.  SW wind around 5 mph.  Slight chance of a light shower, drizzle, or sprinkle.
• Fairhaven: 55F under Partly Sunny skies.  WSW wind 5 to 10 mph.  Slight chance of a light shower, drizzle, or sprinkle.

• Mt. Baker: 52F under Mostly Cloudy skies.  SE wind around 5 mph.  Chance of light rain.
• Ferndale: 58F under Partly Sunny skies.  SW wind around 5 mph.  Slight chance of a light shower, drizzle, or sprinkle.
• Fairhaven: 58F under Partly Sunny skies.  WSW wind 5 to 10 mph.  Slight chance of a light shower, drizzle, or sprinkle.

• Mt. Baker: 52F under Mostly Cloudy skies.  SE wind 5 to 10 mph.  Chance of light rain.
• Ferndale: 62F under Partly Sunny skies.  SW wind 5 to 10 mph.  Slight chance of a light shower, drizzle, or sprinkle.
• Fairhaven: 61F under Partly Sunny skies.  WSW wind 5 to 10 mph.  Slight chance of a light shower, drizzle, or sprinkle.

• Mt. Baker: 53F under Mostly Cloudy skies.  SE wind 5 to 10 mph.  Chance of light rain.
• Ferndale: 66F under Partly Sunny skies.  SW wind 5 to 10 mph.  Slight chance of a light shower, drizzle, or sprinkle.
• Fairhaven: 62F under Partly Sunny skies.  WSW wind 5 to 10 mph.  Slight chance of a light shower, drizzle, or sprinkle.

• Ferndale: 67F under Partly Sunny skies.  SW wind 5 to 10 mph.  Slight chance of a light shower, drizzle, or sprinkle.
• Fairhaven: 63F under Partly Sunny skies.  WSW wind 5 to 10 mph.  Slight chance of a light shower, drizzle, or sprinkle.

• Fairhaven: 64F under Partly Cloudy skies.  SSW wind around 10 mph. Slight chance of a sprinkle.
  

• Fairhaven: 60F under Partly Cloudy skies.  SSW wind around 10 mph. Slight chance of an isolated sprinkle.

• Bellingham: 57F under Partly Cloudy skies.  SSW wind around 10 mph.