Strong winds, mountain snow and coastal flooding in western Washington this weekend

SEATTLE – A weather system bringing gusty winds, mountain snow, rain and high surf has moved into western Washington and will continue through the weekend.

KING 5 has activated First Alert for this weather event that could impact life, property or travel in the Pacific Northwest region. During this event, the First Alert Weather Team will provide you with the latest information to keep you and your family safe.

On Friday there was continuous rain and gusty winds, which continued into Saturday. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), strong winds are expected in some areas through Saturday evening.

The strongest winds will be north of Everett, where gusts of up to 40 miles per hour could occur, according to the KING 5 Weather Team. The strong winds will also be felt along the coast on the San Juan Islands, Whidbey Island and western Skagit and Whatcom counties. Wind gusts of 30 to 40 miles per hour are possible.

A storm warning is now in effect until Saturday, 5:00 p.m. According to the NWS, strong winds can cause dangerous sea conditions that could capsize or damage vessels and reduce visibility.

A wind advisory is in effect for the Everett area and San Juan Islands Saturday from 1 a.m. to 4 p.m. The NWS warns of sustained winds of up to 30 mph and gusts of up to 50 mph.

A winter weather advisory is in effect for the western slopes of the Cascades above 3,500 feet until 10 a.m. Sunday.

A cold front will move through later Saturday and drop snow levels to 2,000 to 2,500 feet on Sunday, which will bring new snow to ski areas.

Forecasters are calling for between 8 and 12 inches at Stevens Pass, with significantly higher amounts possible for the Mount Baker ski area. Snoqualmie Pass is likely to see an accumulation of less than 7 inches.

Snowy roads and minor delays may occur over Stevens Pass.

Due to high tides, a coastal flood warning is in effect from Saturday morning to Saturday afternoon. Flooding of 2 to 3 feet above ground level may occur along shorelines and low-lying coastal areas. Large waves between 17 and 19 feet are expected along the coast.

Numerous roads may be closed and low lying properties, including homes, businesses and some critical infrastructure, may be flooded. There is a risk of coastal erosion.

The strongest impacts are expected to be felt around 11 a.m. on Saturday. Due to the high tide, flooding is possible until late morning and midday Monday.

A coastal flood warning is also in effect for western Whatcom and Skagit counties from 3 a.m. to 9 a.m. Saturday. The NWS warns of minor flooding due to tidal flooding around the high plains.