Moderate flooding expected along Yakima River in Benton County; White, Chinook passes close

Moderate flooding is expected along the Yakima River in Benton County, and people should take steps to protect their property and livestock, Benton County Emergency Management said.

The river is expected to reach flood stage by late Dec. 10 or early Dec. 11, the agency said.

“During moderate flooding, residents can expect to see the Yakima River spill its banks at the Beach RV Park in Benton City. Roads will be covered in low-lying areas, especially north of Van Giesen Street in West Richland. Livestock may need to be moved to higher ground in areas along the Yakima River,” the statement said.

People should move items away from the river bank and ensure higher ground is available for animals, the agency said.

The river is expected to fall below flood stage by Dec. 13.

White and Chinook passes west of Yakima have been closed to numerous rock slides and reports of downed trees and road damage.

The Naches River was nearly a foot above the flood level of 17.8 feet Wednesday, according to the weather service. Minor flooding was already reported by the afternoon.

Updates: www.bces.wa.gov.

This story was originally published December 9, 2015 at 4:58 PM with the headline "Moderate flooding expected along Yakima River in Benton County; White, Chinook passes close."