Flood warning in place for Chelan County until further notice, says the NWS
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On Sunday at 11:37 a.m. the NWS Spokane WA issued a flood warning in effect until further notice for Chelan County.
The NWS informs, "Minor flooding is occurring and minor flooding is forecast for Stehekin River at Stehekin."
"At 20.5 feet, Water inundates some properties and overtops the temporary corduroy bridge. Company Creek Road inundated at northern end. Battalion Creek culverts are beginning to be overtopped. Water begins damaging Wood Road," explains the NWS. "Motorists should not attempt to drive around barricades or drive cars through flooded areas. This warning will be in effect until the river falls below its flood stage. The next statement will be issued Monday afternoon at 12:15 p.m."
Recommendations from the NWS for staying safe during a flood
If you reside in a flood-prone area or you are camping in a low-lying area, move to higher ground. If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Lock your home before departing. If time allows, disconnect utilities and appliances. Avoid basements or rooms where water has submerged electrical outlets or cords. If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping noises, evacuate immediately. Avoid any water that may be charged with electricity and do not attempt to walk through floodwaters. Even 6 inches of swiftly moving water can forcefully knock you off your feet. If you become trapped by moving water, seek the highest possible point and contact emergency services by calling 911.
During heavy rainfall, there is a risk of flooding, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Remember to never drive through water on the road, even if it seems shallow. According to the NWS, as little as 12 inches of rapidly flowing water can carry away most cars.
Rainy weather driving tips
- Turn on your headlights - Even when it's light outside, using headlights can improve visibility and alert other drivers to your presence.
- On the road - Drive in the middle lanes and stay on high ground. Rainwater tends to stockpile on the edges of roads.
- Avoid puddles - Driving into puddles or low rainwater areas can lead to vehicles hydroplaning or losing control.
- Do not follow large vehicles closely - Large vehicles like trucks or buses can create a spray of water that can reduce your visibility.
- Steer clear of flooded areas - When coming to a flooded road, turn around and head back. Flash flooding currents are strong and can sweep drivers off roadways. Driving through deep water can also affect a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.
What is hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning is the term for when a vehicle begins sliding uncontrollably on wet roads.
This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle's weight can push water out of the way. The water pressure then causes the vehicle to rise and slide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, making the driver lose control. Hydroplaning is primarily caused by three factors:
- Vehicle speed - When a vehicle's speed increases, the tire-traction grip and ability to control the vehicle decreases. Drive at a reduced speed during wet weather.
- Water depth - The deeper the water, the sooner a vehicle loses traction on the road. It doesn't matter how deep the water is, even a thin layer can lead to hydroplaning.
- Tire tread depth - Checking your tire tread before hitting the road is important, as low or no tread can lead to sliding.
In the event of your vehicle hydroplaning, here's what to know:
- Ease off the accelerator - Step off the gas to slow down the vehicle until the tires find traction.
- Turn into the skid - Turning into the skid can help the vehicle's tires realign to regain control.
- Make sure the tires reconnect with the road - During the skid, wait until the tires reconnect with the road and then gently straighten the wheels to regain control.
- Brake gently as needed - Brake normally if the vehicle has anti-lock brakes and pump brakes gently if in an older vehicle.
Source: The National Weather Service
United Robots Washington
This story was originally published May 24, 2026 at 11:41 AM.