SEATTLE, Wash. – The National Weather Service in Seattle has issued a Flood Warning for the Skokomish River at Potlatch, where minor flooding is expected through Friday evening as steady rainfall continues across western Washington.
Forecasters say the river is already near flood stage at 16.0 feet and is expected to rise above 16.5 feet overnight, peaking near 17.4 feet late Thursday evening before receding below flood stage Friday morning. “At 16.5 feet, the Skokomish River will cause widespread flooding of pasture lands, with water quickly covering West Bourgault Road and Skokomish Valley Road,” the NWS reported.
Emergency officials urge drivers to never drive through flooded areas and to heed all barricades. “Turn around, don’t drown,” the statement warns, noting that most flood-related fatalities occur in vehicles. Residents in low-lying areas near Potlatch and Shelton should remain alert for changing conditions.
While this event is expected to cause mainly minor flooding, forecasters note that additional rainfall could keep river levels elevated into the weekend. Nighttime travelers are urged to use caution, as flooded roads can be harder to see after dark.
