Risk of landslides, flooding increases following heavy rain
Mar 10, 2014, 6:32 AM | Updated: 2:14 pm
A wet Pacific storm has led to an increased threat of landslides and flooding in Western Washington.
The National Weather Service issued a Special Weather Statement over the weekend, warning that several inches of rain over the past several days has increased soil moisture and will put extra pressure on soil instability leading to an increased risk of landslides.
Landslides have already been reported in Mukilteo and Auburn as well as on highway 101 near Hood Canal. The landslide in Mukilteo has shut down Sounder train service between Everett and Seattle. The National Weather Service warns more landslides are possible in the coming days.
The flood warning has ended for the Skokomish, Snohomish and Cowlitz River, but a flood warning continues for the Snoqualmie River near Carnation and the Green River near Auburn.
Landslides remain a possibility on soggy slopes. The National Weathers Service says a gradually diminishing risk of landslides will continue for several days after the rain ends.
Rain is forecast to continue through Monday morning but the state should dry out with a mostly clear period from Tuesday through Thursday.
It could feel like spring mid-week when temperatures reach the 50s and 60s under sunny skies across the state.
Forecasters say clouds will return Thursday and Friday with a chance of showers.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
