The National Weather Service (NWS) in Anchorage has issued a flood watch for Southcentral for Saturday afternoon.
An atmospheric river will impact Southcentral beginning Friday, January 24th. Warmer temperatures will keep precipitation as mostly rainfall in lower elevations. Periods of moderate to heavy rainfall are expected for most of Southcentral through Sunday.
According to the NWS, Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas.
Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. Through Sunday, expect 1 to 2.5 inches of rainfall for Western Kenai, Anchorage, and the Matanuska Valley, with greater accumulations at higher elevations. 2 to 5 inches are expected in the Susitna Valley, and 2 to 6 inches are expected in the Eastern Kenai Peninsula and Prince William Sound.
The affected areas include the cities of Eklutna, Eagle River, Whittier, Valdez, Anchorage, Soldotna, Girdwood, Indian, Thompson Pass, Kenai, Cooper Landing, Cordova, Seward, Willow, Homer, Chickaloon, Talkeetna, Moose Pass, Sutton, Wasilla, Portage, and Palmer.
Storm drains should be kept clear of debris as much as possible. You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.
Flood Safety Tips and Resources – http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
