NWS warns of 1-3 inches of rain, possible river flooding in Susitna Valley

Residents and campers along the Susitna River drainage face a flood risk this week. The National Weather Service in Anchorage warns that 1 to 3 inches of rain will fall across the western, central, and northern Susitna Valley through midweek, with the heaviest totals expected across the northern and western portions.

Smaller streams are expected to crest Tuesday night into Wednesday. The Skwentna and Yentna rivers are projected to crest Wednesday into Thursday. Gravel bars and other spots popular for camping and recreation along lower river locations may become inundated. Heavy rain may also cause localized ponding in low-lying areas and locations with poor drainage.

NWS said confidence is moderate to high that heavy rainfall will occur, with moderate confidence on exact totals and placement. "If forecast rainfall totals increase, flood watches or warnings may be needed," the outlook said.

The same front is expected to push westward and bring widespread showers and thunderstorms to the Denali Borough and eastern Alaska Range beginning Tuesday morning. Rainfall may top one inch in some locations, with rapid rises possible on smaller rivers there as well.

Residents along area streams and anyone using the rivers for recreation should monitor weather and river forecasts. River conditions can be reported to the Alaska-Pacific River Forecast Center at 907-266-5160.