Update: Pre-flood warning in Tri-Cities area as Yakima River swells with melting snow

The Yakima River in the Tri-Cities area is rising quickly and expected to reach the depth considered the pre-flood “action level” by midnight Friday.

Flood level at the Kiona gauge, which is the closest gauge upstream from the Tri-Cities, starts at 13 feet. But residents should be prepared to move items and animals father away from the river when it reaches 11 feet, the action level.

The river expected is expected to crest with a depth of 12 feet late Saturday morning, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Last week the river was running about 5 or 6 feet deep at the Kiona gauge.

Residents near the river at Benton City and West Richland should be prepared to secure any belongings near the water and consider moving animals out of low-lying pastures.

People should use caution along the banks of the Yakima River. Flows likely will be swift and the water is cold.

Warmer mountain temperatures through Wednesday are increasing the snow melt and then rain is expected for the rest of the week, increasing the river flow, according to the National Weather Service.

This story was originally published March 25, 2025 at 4:47 PM.