Two rounds of rain this week could flood Susitna Valley gravel bars

Gravel bars and low riverside camps in the Susitna Valley may go underwater this week. Two rounds of rain will push rivers and streams in the Yentna and Skwentna basins toward bankfull, the National Weather Service in Anchorage said in a hydrologic outlook Sunday afternoon.

The first round arrives late Monday night and lasts through Wednesday morning, with a 70 to 80 percent chance of widespread rainfall of half an inch to an inch and a half. The heaviest totals are likely from Petersville east to Talkeetna and along the Talkeetna Mountains to Hatcher Pass.

A second round runs from late Thursday night through Saturday evening, with another half inch to an inch and a half likely. Forecasters put that one at 60 to 70 percent.

"Expect sharp rises on many small streams and rivers, including the Yentna at Lake Creek," the outlook said. Heavy rain may also pond in low-lying areas with poor drainage.

The outlook expires Monday afternoon, before the first round is due to begin, so river users should watch for an updated product.