West Fork flood closes Mottsville

Minor flooding is expected along the West Fork of the Carson River this weekend, according to Harry Raub, emergency management technician for Douglas County.

"We're anticipating intermittent closures along Mottsville Lane this weekend," he said.

A flood warning has been issued for the Mono County area, including the West Walker River near Coleville. The West Walker was just 1.3 feet below flood stage at press time Friday, according to the National Weather Service.

"A Pacific storm which will move into the region this weekend may cause additional rises on the Walker River if rain is heavier and temperatures are warmer than currently expected," according to the Weather Service report. "Any widespread heavy rain could result in more serious flooding by early this week."

Residents should monitor weather and river forecasts and remove valuables from areas vulnerable to flooding along the rivers, which will be cold, swift and turbulent with dangerous debris over the next few weeks, the report said.

Gary Barbato, hydrologist for the National Weather Service, said all rivers along the eastern Sierra will be rising this weekend, the degree depending on where this weekend's storms drop their precipitation, but cooler temperatures could slow the snowmelt.

A 50 percent chance of precipitation is forecast for today and rain is in the forecast through mid-week.

Temperatures will stay in the 60s through Wednesday, when clear skies and temperatures in the 70s return.

Susie Vasquez can be reached at svasquez@recordcourier.com or 782-5121, ext. 211.

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