Welcome to Skagit County

November 5th, 2006

SKAGIT RIVER AND VICINITY FLOOD THREAT

Due to recent moderate rainfall, the Skagit River briefly exceeded the 28-foot flood stage at the Concrete gauge late last night and early this morning. The peak reading at the gauge during this time was 28.25 feet at midnight. The river dropped below 28 feet by 1:00 am this morning and has been dropping steadily since then. The latest gauge reading in Concrete at 10:15 am was 24.67 feet. At that time he reading on the Mount Vernon gauge was 24.77.

Everyone needs to be aware that this is expected to be a temporary lull in the rainfall and decline in the Skagit River level.

Several rivers in Western Washington, including the Skagit River, remain under a Flood Watch issued by The National Weather Service. Heavy rains are forecast Sunday night through Monday. Rainfall amounts of two to six inches are expected over much of the lowlands, with higher amounts expected on the southwest facing slopes of the Olympics and Cascades. This volume of precipitation could drive the Skagit River well above flood stage by Monday. In addition, small streams and low lying areas in the County and the Cities could experience flooding due to the excessive rainfall in a short period of time.

Another concern is clogged storm drains. Businesses and residents in areas where water runs off through storm drains are advised to check during this lull in rainfall, and make sure that those drains are free of leaves and other debris.

People with livestock who live in flood prone areas should be making contingency plans to evacuate livestock should the need arise with short notice.

Local officials are meeting today to assess the upcoming flood risk and to plan for appropriate actions to protect people and property from that risk. Additional information will be issued as those plans become finalized.

To stay informed of Skagit River levels call the Skagit River Level Hotline, 360-419-3425. Additional information about flood threats and river levels can be obtained from the Skagit County website.