Series of Pacific storms to drench western Washington through the weekend

Rain totals of 1 to 3 inches are expected across most of the region, with higher amounts possible along the coast. Winds could gust up to 40 mph along the coast and 20 to 30 mph through Puget Sound, especially strong near Whidbey Island and north of Everett.

While the name may sound ominous, an atmospheric river is a descriptive term for a common fall storm pattern. These narrow corridors of moisture transport large amounts of water vapor from the subtropics to higher latitudes, producing the typical warm and cold fronts familiar to Northwest residents. This particular system is expected to deliver wet and blustery weather, but not widespread flooding or damaging winds.

Forecasters say the event will resemble a normal fall storm, though a few local issues could develop. With most trees still holding their leaves, some branches may come down in gusty conditions, and fallen leaves could clog storm drains, leading to isolated street flooding or power outages.

The first front will move into Puget Sound early Friday, bringing a wet, windy start to the day before tapering off late Friday night. Another front will follow Saturday, keeping rain and wind in the forecast before showers turn more scattered on Sunday.