Spokane, Wash. – Residents across the Washington Cascades are under a Flood Watch through 9 p.m. Thursday as heavy thunderstorms bring the threat of flash flooding and debris flows in steep terrain. Downpours may reach rates of up to an inch an hour, raising concerns in Chelan and Okanogan counties.
According to the National Weather Service in Spokane, the greatest risk runs from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., when storms could develop quickly and drop torrential rain over burn scars and mountain slopes. Even short-lived thunderstorms may send water and debris rushing into valleys, creating dangerous conditions on roadways and near creeks.
The watch extends over popular travel corridors, including U.S. 2 through Stevens Pass and State Route 97 near Wenatchee. Drivers are urged to avoid low-lying roads and not attempt to cross flooded areas. Lightning is also possible with the stronger storms, though forecasters say it will be scattered.
Emergency managers advise residents in flood-prone areas to keep phones charged and be ready to move to higher ground if alerts are issued. Conditions could improve overnight, but further watches may be posted if storms redevelop into Friday.
