Rain, snowmelt: Minor flooding expected

By Sharyn L. Decker
Lewis County Sirens news reporter

CHEHALIS – The National Weather Service this morning issued a flood warning for the Newaukum River near Chehalis, expecting it will overflow its banks today.

Minor flooding is forecast, which will inundate many roads as well as residential and commercial areas along the river and its forks, according to the weather service.

Later this morning flood warnings were issued for the Skookumchuck River near Bucoda and the Chehalis River around Doty and Grand Mound.

Heavy rain last night and today, with a little boost from melting
lowland snow, will drive the several rivers in southwest Washington
over flood stage today, according to the weather service.

A flood watch remains in effect for other areas of Lewis and surrounding counties with a weather system moving through the region and snow levels dropping.

“Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop,” the weather service states.

Today’s  rain will lead to an increase in threat of landslides in Western Washington.

A winter storm warning and avalanche warning are in effect in East Lewis County, with freezing rain expected. U.S. Highway 12 is closed in both directions around White Pas, because of multiple snow slides, according to the Washington State Department of Transportation.

The public can monitor the changing conditions for their area by checking the the National Weather Service Forecast Office in Seattle. Information on current and forecasted river levels can be found here.

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