From Cottage Grove to Astoria, area rivers are running high from recent heavy rains. Incoming storms and high snow levels (7000 to 8000 feet) will cause rivers and streams to rise and some should reach flood stage.

Forecasters with the National Weather Service issued the flood watch late Tuesday for flooding Wednesday afternoon through Friday night. Wednesday morning's rain is just the beginning of "a prolonged and multi-faceted weather system affecting the area through Friday" according to forecasters.  

Flood watch area is colored green.NOAA 

Predicted rain totals are impressive. Rainfall totals of 1.5 to 2.5 inches are expected in the inland valleys. As much as 3 to 6 inches are expected in the Willapa Hills and the north and central coast range. The coast will see 2 to 3 inches of rain.  

Along with the heavy rain, Wednesday offers cool temps with a high of only 40 degrees.  

Thursday will feature rain all day, but warmer with a high of 55. Forecasters also warn that Thursday could be blustery with winds gusting to 30 mph in the Portland area. Soggy ground and high winds are normally a recipe for landslides and downed trees. We'll keep an eye on that. 

Friday is also warm with a high of 50 and showers and continued gusty winds. Currently the forecast calls for clearing and fewer showers for the weekend - a welcome relief.

Turn Around Don't Drown PSA

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