WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Though most of Whatcom County will miss out on a white Christmas next week, bundle up to prepare for moderate rain and wind gusts.

The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts light precipitation and warmer temperatures in the mid 40s and 50s through this week, which will allow for elevated snow levels. Wind gusts are expected to reach up to 23 mph through Saturday, Dec. 21.

Wind and rain are in the forecast for Whatcom County all next week, with a moderate risk for high winds next Friday into Saturday.

Snow is predicted in the days following Christmas in the Cascades. Anyone traveling after the holidays is advised to be cautious while driving through the wet and snowy conditions.