Flood Warning at Chehalis and Black Rivers this week, Areal Flood Watch in effect until late Wednesday 

Thurston County has reiterated a flood warning issued by the National Weather Service (Weather) for the Chehalis River, at and downstream of Grand Mound, for this evening until Friday morning, December 8. 

According to the county, the river is expected to rise above flood level tonight to 141 feet and reach 142.7 feet by tomorrow evening, subsiding by Friday.  

“Flood waters are expected to inundate several roads in Independence Valley with swiftly moving water, including State Route 12, James, Independence, Moon and Anderson Roads,” Thurston County said. 

Flooding may occur at the Chehalis Reservation and nearby farms along the Chehalis and Black Rivers, with the rivers’ conditions changing rapidly. 

Community residents are urged to monitor for updates from Weather, Thurston Community Alert, and local news.  

Areal Flood Watch until late Wednesday night 

Areal flooding, caused by prolonged moderate to heavy rains, and flooding from excessive rainfall throughout western Washington is expected through Wednesday night. The excessive runoff will potentially affect “flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations,” a weather alert from AccuWeather said.  

Poor drainage areas and urban areas are at risk, and low-water crossings will or are being affected.  

“Extensive street flooding and flooding of creeks and rivers are possible,” said AccuWeather.