Here’s a message from the City of Bellingham, released Monday afternoon, Feb. 24:

National Weather Service forecasts call for rising temperatures in Bellingham over the next 24 hours. Bellingham residents are encouraged to continue to use caution while outdoors and while traveling.

Heavy, wet snow continues to cause downed trees and falling branches. Be cautious outdoors and avoid heavily wooded areas.

There are a number of power outages reported inside the city limits and countywide. More information about safety around downed power lines and during power outages can be found on the Puget Sound Energy website.

Even though most arterials and main streets within Bellingham city limits are bare and wet, drivers should be aware of potentially slippery conditions and take extra precautions especially after dark.

Melting snow increases the potential for urban flooding.  Please clear snow from storm drains when it is safe to do so, in order to help prevent flooding. Avoid rising water, do not drive through standing water or attempt to unplug large catch basins.

Non-emergency local flooding on any City street can be reported to City of Bellingham Public Works at 360-778-7700 (all hours). For any emergency please call 911.