"Perfect Storm" Rainfall Comes to the Northwest

It has happened multiple times this past year.   

After an extended dry period, the circulation pattern changes, bringing wet conditions that get us close to normal again.

This is going to happen again starting tomorrow. 

The predicted accumulated precipitation through Thursday afternoon will be substantial in the Cascades, and even eastern Washington will enjoy a general moistening. (see below)

Importantly, the precipitation will continue!  By Sunday afternoon (below), some locations in the Cascades will enjoy 2-4 inches.  This will cause rivers to substantially rise on both sides of the Cascades.

Temperatures will dramatically cool for the remainder of the week....with highs declining to around 60F over the western lowlands (see below).

Cool enough that snow will fall at higher elevations (see below)

The storage for the Yakima River basin has remained full (see below).  This wet/cool period will guarantee it remains high for the remainder of the month. 

River flows are below normal because of the lack of snowpack, but flows should be close to normal after mid to late June when reservoir releases are dominant.

The precipitation and relatively cool temperatures will ensure that soil moisture remains in good shape (currently, 78% of the area is adequate)--see below:

If any of you were considering planting seeds or plants, THIS IS THE TIME TO DO IT!  Soils have warmed, and precipitation will keep the ground moist.