See photos: Yakima River continues rising; minor flooding expected

The Yakima River continued to rise Sunday in the Tri-Cities area, with water levels reaching 12.58 feet at the Kiona gauge near Benton City as of Sunday morning.

The river is expected to crest at about 13.16 feet around 5 a.m. Monday, reaching minor flood stage. Minor flooding begins at 13 feet. Moderate flooding starts at 14.5 feet.

Flooding impacts have expanded across Benton City and West Richland as the river rises.

The Benton City boat launch at First Street has closed due to high water. In West Richland, low-lying areas along the east bank of the Yakima River near Van Giesen Road are flooded, including the pedestrian pathway beneath the bridge.

Kingston Road off Van Giesen Road is also closed, with about one foot of water covering portions of the roadway.

At West Richland Golf Course, floodwaters have spread across the south side of the course and reached up to the clubhouse.

The rising river is driven by rain and snowmelt from the East Cascade Mountains, continuing to push flows higher through the Yakima Basin.

Officials continue to urge caution near the river. Fast-moving water and unstable banks pose risks, and drivers are reminded to turn around if water covers the road.

The river is expected to begin receding after cresting early Monday, with levels forecast to drop below flood stage later this week.