Deputy Director of Grays Harbor County Emergency Management Charles Wallace says gusty winds and heavy rain are expected in the area tonight and into Thursday, and warns Harborites of a pending flood watch Friday and Saturday.

“The National Weather Service has forecast heavy rain beginning tonight and lasting into Thursday,” Wallace said. “Gusty winds will accompany this rain event, and as a result, all rivers in the county will rise quickly and approach flood stage.”

Wallace said the Chehalis River is forecast to reach flood Stage (21 feet) some time Saturday night, but then quickly recede. No other rivers are expected to flood.

An areal flood watch has been issued from 10 p.m. Friday through 10 p.m. Saturday. All low lying areas of the county could be susceptible, Wallace said, to ponding and pooling of water during this event. The heavy rains coupled with localized snow melt could cause streams and rivers to overflow their banks. Gusty winds could result in downed tree limbs and power lines and the loss of power to homes and businesses throughout the county.