Flood watch for north-central Washington

11/18/2012 Flood Watch

Flood Watch and Winter Storm Warnings: north-central Washington 11/18/2012

The National Weather Service today issued a flood watch for sustained heavy rainfall in the lower elevations of north-central Washington. The flood watch includes Chelan and Okanogan counties, including the Chelan area, Leavenworth, and Plain. The flood watch is in effect from late tonight through late Monday night. Snow levels should remain high and most of the expected precipitation will fal as rain below 3,500 feet. Predicted rainfall amounts could range from one to three inches.

Large mainstem rivers are not expected to flood, but smaller streams and urban areas may experience flooding. Residents can expect mudslides and road washouts. Area residents near wildfire burned areas will be especially vulnerable to flooding and mudslides.

A wildfire emergency doesn’t end when the smoke has cleared. NOW is the time to prepare for post-fire flooding. Check our Flood Watch page and our Links page for current and predicted weather conditions. The Washington State Department of Ecology also has River & Stream Flow Monitoring information online.