Yakima River hits flood stage in Benton County

Water levels on the Yakima River in Benton County rose to flood stage on Friday.

Forecasts from the National Weather Service show the river reached moderate flood stage, cresting at nearly 15 feet, at 7 p.m. Friday. The river is expected to fall below flood stage, which is 13 feet, by Dec. 13 or 14.

Numerous roads around the Yakima River near Benton City, West Richland, and Richland remain under water, according to Benton County Emergency Services.

Once flood waters recede, crews will assess road damage. Residents are reminded not to drive around barricades and to avoid driving on water-covered roads.

Sandbags and sand are available from Benton Fire District 4. For sandbag information, call 509-430-7993

Livestock can be very vulnerable to the effects of localized flooding, the agency said. Several instances have occurred in the past in which horses and cattle have been stranded due to water running through a pasture. Livestock owners are encouraged to have plans in place to move their herds to higher ground if needed.

Property owners along the river should ensure that any boats and other equipment near river banks are either moved or secured to prevent items being washed away with the rising, the release said.

Residents should continue to monitor river levels in their area and listen for situation updates on local radio and television stations. Information is also available on the Benton County Emergency Services website at www.bces.wa.gov.

This story was originally published December 11, 2015 at 5:08 PM with the headline "Yakima River hits flood stage in Benton County."