Heavy rain and wind hit the west side of the Olympics
An atmospheric river soaked the Olympic National Forest last week, flooding creeks and knocking down trees across Western Washington. Forest crews say it will take time to understand the full impact because more rain is expected through this week.
This warm, wet storm pattern is common in winter. But when you mix days of steady rain with steep mountain slopes and fragile soils, the odds of landslides and washouts go up fast.
Burn scars face the highest risk right now
Forest staff are especially worried about areas burned in recent fires. Bear Gulch and Tunnel Creek still have closures in place, and officials warn that hazards can extend well beyond posted closure lines.
Burn scars lose the vegetation that normally holds soil together. That means mudslides, flash floods, and debris flows can form with little warning when heavy rain hits.
Downed trees are common after soaked soils
Crews report more trees falling along roads, trails, rivers, and campgrounds. When soil becomes fully saturated, roots lose their grip. Even healthy trees can topple.
Hikers and drivers should expect to encounter branches or entire trunks across narrow forest roads. Storm runoff may cover potholes and washouts, making them hard to spot.
Forest Service urges visitors to travel carefully
If you’re headed into the Olympic National Forest this week, plan for winter hazards:
- Never drive through standing or moving water
- Turn around if a road looks washed out
- Pack extra warm layers, food, chains, and a shovel
- Check forest alerts before you go
Forest crews will continue checking damage once conditions are safe, but they ask visitors to give workers space when assessment work is underway.
The bottom line
The atmospheric river in the Olympic National Forest is a reminder that winter storms can shift conditions fast. Plan ahead, stay alert, and make conservative choices in stormy weather.
