Back-to-Back Storms to Bring Heavy Rain and Flood Risks Across California, Oregon, and Washington Through Next Week

SEATTLE — A series of strong Pacific storm systems is expected to bring heavy rain, gusty winds, and possible flooding across California, Oregon, and Washington through next week, according to meteorologists.

The first system is forecast to arrive late Wednesday, moving from California into Oregon and Washington by Friday, before spreading into Nevada, Utah, and Arizona over the weekend. A second storm system will follow closely behind, keeping much of the region soaked through Monday, November 17.

Heavy Rainfall Expected Across Multiple States

Forecast models show widespread rainfall totals that could exceed several inches in some areas:

• Brookings, Oregon: 4–5 inches
• Portland, Oregon: 1.75–2.5 inches
• Olympia, Washington: 1.75–2.25 inches
• Seattle, Washington: 1.5–2.25 inches
• San Francisco, California: 1.25–1.5 inches
• Los Angeles, California: 1.25–2 inches
• San Diego, California: 1–1.5 inches
• Reno, Nevada: 0.3–0.65 inch
• Salt Lake City, Utah: 0.75–1 inch
• Las Vegas, Nevada: 0.2–0.45 inch
• Phoenix, Arizona: 0.3–0.65 inch
• Tucson, Arizona: 0.45–0.7 inch
• Boise, Idaho: 0.2–0.45 inch

Meteorologists warn that the heaviest rainfall will likely hit coastal Oregon and Northern California, where saturated soils could trigger localized flooding and mudslides, especially near mountain slopes or recent wildfire burn areas.

“These are classic November storm systems,” said a National Weather Service forecaster in Seattle. “They’ll bring widespread beneficial rain to the region but also increase the risk of flash flooding in low-lying areas.”

Storm Timeline and Impact by State

California

Rain will begin along the coast Wednesday night and intensify on Thursday. Los Angeles and San Diego could see steady showers through Friday, while San Francisco and the Central Coast may experience heavier bursts of rain and isolated thunderstorms. Localized flooding is possible in areas with poor drainage.

Oregon

The most intense rainfall is forecast for western Oregon, particularly along the coast and in the Portland and Eugene areas. Brookings could see up to 5 inches of rain, raising concerns about urban flooding and small landslides.

Washington

From Olympia to Seattle, rain totals are expected between 1.5 and 2.25 inches through the weekend. Gusty winds could cause minor power outages, while higher elevations in the Cascade Mountains may receive light snow as temperatures drop late in the week.

Broader Impact Across Neighboring States

Parts of Nevada, Utah, and Arizona will also get rain as the system expands inland. Salt Lake City could pick up around an inch, while Phoenix and Tucson will likely see lighter but steady rainfall.

Meteorologists note that while the storms will bring much-needed moisture after a dry start to November, they may also disrupt travel across mountain passes and highways.

Next System to Follow Early Next Week

Another system will arrive from the Pacific late in the weekend, maintaining a wet and unsettled pattern through mid-November. Temperatures are expected to dip slightly, bringing early-season snow to higher mountain elevations in Oregon and Washington.

Residents across affected areas are advised to monitor local alerts, avoid driving through flooded roads, and prepare for possible power interruptions in windy zones.

Stay updated with live weather alerts and forecasts for California, Oregon, and Washington at NapervilleLocal.com.