CHENEY — A steady rain, recent warming temperatures and predicted gusty winds prompted the National Weather Service to issue a flood warning for much of southern Spokane County, including Cheney, Medical Lake and Spangle.
Areas of Whitman County were also expected to see localized flooding.
As of press time Tuesday night, Hangman Creek was rising from Tekoa to Spokane, and Paradise Creek was expected to continue rising in the Pullman-Colfax area.
“Runoff from rain and rapid snowmelt has pushed Paradise Creek over flood stage,” the National Weather Service said.
The temperature was expected to drop Wednesday, which meteorologists said will help slow flooding.
While area streams were rising, snowmelt was also creating pools of water on some roadways.
State crews posted “water over roadway” signs near Latah along state Highway 27 on Tuesday.
And some roads near ponds and wetlands had standing pools of water or water flowing over the asphalt.
“Motorists should not attempt to drive around barricades or drive cars through flooded areas,” the National Weather Service said. “Be especially cautious at night, when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding.”
In addition to the flood warning, the weather service also issued a high wind warning for much of the area, including Rosalia, Sprague, St. John and LaCrosse.
Southwest winds were expected to reach gusts of 45-55 mph overnight Tuesday, weather officials said, noting the wind warning was set to expire Wednesday morning.
“Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines,” the National Weather Service said. “Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.”
Meteorologists said motorists should watch for debris and tree limbs on area roads.
A wind advisory was also issued for most of nearby Lincoln and Adams Counties.
“Strong cross-winds may impact travel on west-east roadways,” the Weather Service said.
The warnings and advisories were expected to be lifted Wednesday.
Roger Harnack is the owner/publisher of Free Press Publishing. Having grown up Benton City, Roger is an award-winning journalist, columnist, photographer, editor and publisher. He's one of only two editorial/commentary writers from Washington state to ever receive the international Golden Quill. Roger is dedicated to the preservation of local media, and the voice it retains for Eastern Washington.
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