We just concluded a briefing with the National Weather Service and it looks like we are in for a LOT of rain in the coming days. Another storm is anticipated to begin Tuesday evening through Friday of this week that could produce flooding in Cowlitz County. According to the National Weather Service, this storm is expected to focus primarily on SW Washington. Rainfall will be significant: Up to 1 inch from Tuesday night to Wednesday morning and 2-5 inches from Wednesday and Thursday. This precipitation combined with snowmelt due to freezing levels at 7-9,000 feet has the potential for flooding. Key rivers of local concern include the Cowlitz River at Kelso and Castle Rock, as well as the Lewis River. The hydrologists at the National Weather Service feel that the Cowlitz River might reach its highest stage since the flood in 1996. Since the ground has gone from frozen to saturated, there is also high probability of landslides. At this time, the Cowlitz County Emergency Operations Center is not activated, but will continue to monitor the situation.
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