NWS SPOKANE 11:50 AM PST THURSDAY DEC 11, 2014

OKANOGAN COUNTY – The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for a portion of North Central Washington, including the east slopes of the North Cascades, the Okanogan Valley and the Wenatchee Area through late tonight.

The NWS says to expect periods of ran that are expected to continue through tonight, with drier and cooler weather is expected to move into the region by Friday.

“The soils in much of the area are already saturated or nearly saturated from recent rainfall. Additional rainfall could exacerbate this problem leading to minor mud slides. This problem will largely be confined to locations near the burn scars from the 2014 wildfires. Ponding of water is also a possibility in low-lying areas and near debris-clogged culverts. If you witness water backing up behind culverts please report this as soon as possible to the appropriate officials,” says the weather service.

A flood watch means that flooding is possible but not imminent in the watch area. People should monitor forecasts and be alert for possible flood warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.

NWS SPOKANE 11:50 AM PST THURSDAY DEC 11, 2014NWS SPOKANE 11:50 AM PST THURSDAY DEC 11, 2014