A new flood watch from the National Weather Service covers Mason County, Washington, from late Thursday night through late Saturday night. Forecasters expect 3 to 4.5 inches of rain on the south slopes of the Olympic Mountains from early Friday into early Sunday. They say the Skokomish River near Potlatch could rise above flood stage again.
The watch, issued early Thursday, covers a new round of rain. A separate warning for the Skokomish River at Potlatch was scheduled to run until 5 a.m. Thursday after the weather service reported minor flooding Wednesday evening. Under the new watch, flooding is possible on smaller streams and in low-lying areas as well as along the river.
Which roads are vulnerable
The U.S. Geological Survey gauge near Potlatch lists flood stage at 16.5 feet. The weather service says that at that level, water can spread across pastures and move quickly over West Bourgault Road and Skokomish Valley Road. If you rely on either road, check Mason County’s road closure notices before leaving. Washington’s state travel alerts list restrictions on highways.
Watch for a new warning if river levels begin to rise. The weather service advises people in flood-prone areas to be ready to act if flooding develops. If you find water over a road, turn back and use another route.
