National Weather Service Issues Flood Watches for Susitna and Matanuska Valleys

The saturated grounds will not see much of a reprieve as heavy rain is again forecasted for the Susitna Valley for the rest of the work week.

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch as widespread heavy rain is expected to fall in areas including Willow and Talkeetna. Wasilla, Palmer, Sutton, and Chickaloon may also experience heavy rainfalls resulting in flooding.

Extensive rain is expected to move into the Susitna Valley Thursday morning with prolonged periods of moderate rain expected in the Talkeetna Mountains through Friday afternoon. Rainfall totals of between 4 and 6 inches are possible in the Talkeetna Mountains. Residents living along the Little Susitna River and Willow Creek are advised to be prepared for high water levels. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop

All the rain may lead to excessive runoff that could result in flooding of local rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone areas. The Weather Service also warns that creeks and streams may flow over their banks.

Where’s the rain coming from? Radar images shows a low-pressure system circling over the Bering Sea and another low rotating over Southeast Alaska and caught in the middle are the rains.

In addition to the rains is a threat of very strong winds. While the highest winds will be over the passes of the Chugach Mountains as well as the Anchorage Hillside, with gusts anywhere from 45-60 mph, forecasts suggest that gusty winds will also build into the valley and parts of the Copper River Basin. The highest winds are projected for most of the day Thursday. For both rain and winds the activity is set to decrease into Friday, with slightly cooler air to follow.

The wet ground and possible winds could result in some downed trees and powerlines could occur in areas with the highest wind speeds.

The flood watch will remain in effect from Thursday afternoon on through Saturday morning.