Key Messages from the NOAA Climate Prediction Center
Issued November 2, 2026 and Updated November 4, 2026

Atmospheric River Expected to Affect the West Coast States

  • Atmospheric river activity is expected to pull significant amounts of moisture into much of the West Coast during the second week of November and weekend, with a potential secondary moisture surge later in the period. Strong surface low pressure just north of the region will also likely drive high winds along the immediate coastline.

  • (a) A moderate risk (40 to 60%) of heavy precipitation is indicated for Nov 12 to 15 across parts of the Pacific Northwest and northern/central California, while a slight risk (20 to 40%) extends to Nov 18 across the West Coast into the Desert Southwest, Great Basin, and Southern Rockies. Flooding is possible over parts of the Pacific Northwest and northern California. High winds are possible across much of the West, including a moderate risk along the immediate West Coast Nov 12 to 15 and a broader slight risk extending to Nov 18.

  • (b) A moderate risk of heavy snow is indicated across the higher elevations of the Klamath and Sierra Nevada Nov 12 to 15. Slight risks of heavy snow extend to Nov 18 for high elevations of the Cascades, Klamath, and Sierra Nevada, as well as the Northern Intermountain, Great Basin, and Central and Northern Rockies.

  • Monitor local forecasts for safety alerts, avoid driving through flooded roadways, and use caution if traveling through high elevations. Be prepared for possible power outages due to high winds.