A Flood Warning is in effect for the Skokomish River until tomorrow (Wed.) evening. According to forecasters, a storm system coming into western Washington today will bring an additional 1 to 2 inches of rain through the rest of today for the Olympic Peninsula. Snow levels will fall from the current 6000 feet through today. This rainfall will continue to drive the Skokomish River to above the 16.5-foot flood stage early this morning. Minor flooding is forecast.
At 16.5 feet, the Skokomish River will cause widespread flooding of pasture lands, with water flowing quickly over West Bourgault Road and Skokomish Valley Road.
Most flood related deaths occur in automobiles. Do not attempt to cross water covered bridges, dips, or low water crossings. Never try to cross a flowing stream, even a small one, on foot. To escape rising water find another route over higher ground.
Motorists should not attempt to drive around barricades or drive cars through flooded areas.
Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding.
Turn around, don`t drown when encountering flooded roads.
A Wind Advisory remains in effect until 10 PM this evening for the Hood Canal area and vicinity. Southwest winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 55 mph are expected.
Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.
Use extra caution when driving, especially if operating a high profile vehicle. Secure outdoor objects.
INCREASED THREAT OF LANDSLIDES
Rainfall over the past week has increased soil moisture to moderate levels across western Washington. Heavy rainfall of one to two inches in the lowlands and two to five inches in the mountains is expected over the next two days. This amount of rain will put extra pressure on soil instability, leading to an increased but marginal threat of landslides. Steep terrain, coastal bluffs, and slope cuts like for roadways are some of the most landslide prone areas.