Worst rain likely over, but effects could last days
Published 11:25 pm Wednesday, November 12, 2008
SNOHOMISH — Heavy runoff from the Cascades has been moving its way down the Snohomish River for days, and more flooding is expected in Monroe and Snohomish today.
The Snohomish River in Monroe likely will crest about 4 1/2 feet above flood stage before sunrise today, forecasters predicted Wednesday. The river is then expected to crest in Snohomish about 10 a.m., according to the forecast.
That could affect the morning commute, authorities said Wednesday. Drivers who use Highway 9 through Snohomish are advised the roadway could be shut down during the morning hours.
Emergency planners also are concerned flooding on the Snohomish will coincide with high tide and a higher-than-normal low tide. That could mean flood waters will linger, saturating levees.
“The positive there is that the river has been down-graded” and isn’t expect to top the levees, Snohomish County spokesman Christopher Schwarzen said Wednesday.
Soggy soil could lead to landslides and erosion, also affecting the roadways over the next couple of days, he said.
Heavy rain was expected to continue to fall in the mountains Wednesday night. The rain is expected to taper off today. Showers are expected to move in Friday.
“We’re not looking at any big flood-makers,” said Johnny Burg, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Seattle.
People in Monroe and Snohomish continued to make preparations Wednesday night.
Monroe city workers spent Wednesday clearing storm drains and gutters in preparation for rising waters.
The city shut down Blueberry Lane. The Main Street roundabout and Tye Street near 171st Street both had standing water on the road, said Brad Feilberg, the city engineering director.
Tom Tonne, 22, watched the rising river in Snohomish with his family Wednesday evening.
Tonne spent part of the day helping a friend, a farmer, whose house is located in the flood zone.
“It’s kind of a part of life here,” the Snohomish man said. “People come together when this happens.”
Reporter Diana Hefley: 425-339-3463 or hefley@heraldnet.com.
Roads
Road closures will be posted at www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/Update. The site will be updated as conditions change. Travel information also is available by calling 511.
