Local

Skagit River expected to flood residential areas, roads in Mount Vernon

MOUNT VERNON, Wash. — Skagit County officials are warning of likely flooding in residential areas and roads after the National Weather Service issued a Flood Warning for Mount Vernon early Friday.

The Skagit River is expected to rise above flood stage, which is 28 feet, around 10 a.m.

It’s expected to crest at 31.8 feet Friday evening.

At that level, the river will flood throughout the basin, the county said.

A news release from the county said people who live in Mount Vernon should expect residential areas, roads and farmlands to be swamped with water, included localized flooding from overwhelmed drains.

The flood level is consistent with a phase 2 flood in Skagit County’s response system.

Skagit County Public Works and Washington State Department of Transportation crews checked roads through the night and signs were placed where known problem roads were closed.

Drivers are reminded to not drive through water on roads, as it can pose a serious danger.

Anyone who has questions or needs sandbags is asked to call the Skagit County Department of Emergency Management at 360-416-1850.

For more emergency information, sign up to the emergency information email list, CodeRed Alerts or follow Skagit County on Twitter @SkagitGov.

The River Level Hotline at 360- 416-1404 and www.skagitcounty.net/flood are updated frequently during events with current conditions.

0