Eastern Whatcom County is under a winter storm warning through Wednesday evening, April 15, while at the same time Washington State moves forward with a federal disaster declaration covering last December's significant flooding event. The dual situation underscores the ongoing weather challenges facing the region heading into mid-April.
The Whatcom County Sheriff's Office Division of Emergency Management issued the storm warning as part of its Tuesday daily briefing. The warning covers the mountainous eastern portions of Whatcom County, including communities near the Mount Baker area and upper Nooksack River valley. Snow accumulation, reduced visibility, and hazardous road conditions are expected at higher elevations through Wednesday night at 11 p.m.
The Whatcom County Emergency Operations Center is not currently activated, meaning the situation does not require a coordinated multi-agency response at this time. Residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts through WhatcomReady, the county's official emergency notification system, to receive timely updates as conditions evolve.
Separately, good news emerged regarding the December 2025 flooding that affected communities across the region. Washington State is receiving a federal disaster declaration for that event, which will unlock federal recovery funding for affected property owners, renters, and public infrastructure. More specific details about application processes and eligibility are expected to follow in the coming days as the declaration is formalized.
The December flooding caused significant damage across multiple Whatcom County communities, with the Nooksack River system reaching flood stage in several locations. Roads, agricultural land, and residential areas in the Sumas and Everson areas were among the hardest hit, continuing a pattern of severe flooding that has struck the region repeatedly in recent years. Federal disaster declarations allow residents to apply for FEMA assistance and give local governments access to reimbursement for emergency response costs.
Residents who sustained losses in the December flooding should monitor FEMA's website and the county's emergency management pages for application details as soon as the declaration is formalized. Typically, residents have a limited window to register for assistance after a declaration is issued, so acting quickly once applications open is important.
Mount Baker's volcanic activity continues to be monitored by the U.S. Geological Survey as part of standard volcanic awareness protocols for the Cascade Range. No unusual activity is currently reported. The county briefing referenced volcanic awareness information as part of routine public education efforts, not in response to any new alert status.
For the latest road conditions in eastern Whatcom County during the winter storm warning, travelers can check WSDOT's mountain pass report. The state highway to Mount Baker and the North Cascades Highway may be affected. Residents heading into the mountains are advised to carry chains and check conditions before departing.
Stay connected with Whatcom County Emergency Management through WhatcomReady for official alerts. Updates on both the federal disaster declaration and ongoing storm impacts will be published through official county channels as they become available.
