Threat of landslides in Western Washington increases after recent rains
The National Weather Service in Seattle is warning that recent heavy rainfall has led to an increased threat of landslides throughout Western Washington.
Between 0.75 of an inch and 2 inches of rain fell within a 24-hour period Wednesday and Thursday.
“The heavy rainfall adds to already saturated soil from rainfall over the past several weeks,” the alert stated. “The recent rainfall has put on extra pressure on soil instability… leading to an increased threat of landslides.”
The Weather Service also issued a flood watch for Grays Harbor, Lewis and Thurston counties.
“Heavy rain that fell Wednesday through Thursday night is causing rises on rivers in southwest Washington,” the statement said.
The Weather Service issued a flood warning for the Chehalis River near Grand Mound in Thurston County.
“Portions of the Chehalis River could reach flood stage later today through Saturday,” the agency said Friday. “At this time it appears that any flooding that occurs will be minor.”
Craig Sailor: 253-597-8541, @crsailor
This story was originally published November 25, 2016 at 3:16 PM with the headline "Threat of landslides in Western Washington increases after recent rains."