Your trusted source for local Bellingham, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Whatcom County has closed all beaches for recreational shellfish harvesting due to elevated levels of paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP) detected in local shellfish. This includes species such as oysters, mussels, and scallops, affecting areas from Bellingham Bay to Drayton Harbor. Residents are advised to check for biotoxin closures before harvesting.
Local authorities seek public assistance in locating a suspect connected to a sexual assault and robbery at Little Squalicum Park in Bellingham, WA. The incident occurred Wednesday morning, prompting a campus lock-down at Bellingham Technical College. The suspect is described as a heavyset male in his 30s to 40s, approximately 6 feet tall.
WWU Geology Professor Doug Clark highlights the retreat of glaciers on Mount Baker, attributed largely to human-induced climate change. Over the past two decades, glaciers have significantly shrunk, with one glacier retreating nearly a quarter mile. The findings emphasize the urgent impact of climate change on local glacial systems.
Karolina Lobrow and Ben Howe opened Otherlands Beer, a cozy brewpub in Bellingham, WA, specializing in meat-free food and European-style brews. Despite delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, they successfully launched in June 2020 and recently celebrated their fifth anniversary. The couple aims to create a unique, community-focused space that supports local artists and hosts regular events.
Paving work will fully close portions of northbound I-5 in Bellingham from Sunset Drive to Meridian Street tonight from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. Wednesday. Southbound I-5 will also close between Northwest Avenue and Meridian Street during the same hours on Wednesday night. Drivers should expect delays and use alternative routes.
The Seattle Mariners aim to recover from a tough weekend series against the Mets as they face the Phillies today. Cal Raleigh leads the majors with 47 home runs, while Victor Robles faces potential suspension for an incident in a Triple-A game. The Seahawks and Storm also had notable performances, with the Seahawks winning their preseason game against the Chiefs.
Whatcom County will receive nearly $370,000 to purchase over three acres of wetlands, part of a $14.6 million fund aimed at improving salmon habitats in the Puget Sound region. The funding, awarded by the Washington State Recreation Conservation Office and the Department of Fish and Wildlife, supports efforts to enhance water quality and restore coastal ecosystems.
The U.S. Coast Guard rescued 12 kayakers, including six children, from distress between Patos Island and Sucia Island on August 14. The group was saved thanks to their VHF marine radio, which allowed for a quick response by the Coast Guard and local authorities. All individuals were safely returned to Orcas Island.
Two people sustained minor injuries in a helicopter crash at Skagit Regional Airport in Burlington on August 18. The helicopter's tail struck a light pole during takeoff, prompting an investigation by the FAA and NTSB.
Mark Vientos hit a three-run homer, leading the New York Mets to a 7-3 victory over the Seattle Mariners in the Major League Baseball Little League Classic on August 18. The game featured many young fans, including Little Leaguers who participated in various roles, enhancing the nostalgic atmosphere for the players. Seattle's Cal Raleigh added to his home run tally, hitting his 47th of the season.