Wind and rain predicted to become problematic through Wednesday

Mudslide in Stehekin, Dec. 15. Photo courtesy: The Seattle Times.

The National Weather Service predicts continued unsettled weather with a high wind watch in effect Wednesday.

"One thing we are worried about is an elevated risk of rock and mudslides as well as rises on small creeks, streams and main-stem rivers," said National Weather Service Meteorologist Antoinette Serrato. "As more (water) flow goes through them, the river banks are scoured out with just the shear amount of water going through."

"Hillsides are still unstable, and from what we got back, report wise, from our subject matter experts, we're going to see more slides up there," Chelan County Sheriff Mike Morrison told the county commissioners Monday when sharing the need for the evacuation advisory in the Stehekin Valley.

Chelan County Commissioner Shon Smith inquired with the Sheriff about the loss of services in Stehekin and any word from the National Park Service on whether Stehekin will be open next year (for tourists).

"We recognize that if you don't have a water treatment plant that's going to be difficult, but I know they're working hard to make sure that does happen," Sheriff Morrison shared. "I'm sure that as the water recedes and they get some of the mud cleared they're going to get a better picture of what they're actually having to repair."

"We're particularly concerned for early Wednesday through midday Wednesday, we could see (wind) gusts 40 to 50 miles an hour through the county and higher along isolated ridgetops which could be exacerbated by the fact that we have very saturated soils up there, especially in Stehekin," Serrato added. "Water values are 250-300% of normal for this time of year."

Chelan County Emergency Management reports that If you have suffered losses as a result of the windstorm and flood, it is critical that you fill out an online Damage Assessment form to begin the process for FEMA financial assistance.

The county says it's important to note that as of Monday the federal government has not approved financial assistance for individuals. With sufficient documentation the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will approve assistance for Chelan County residents.

This form is for both individuals and businesses. If you need assistance in completing the form call Chelan county Emergency Management at 509-667-6863.

Monitor updates from the National Weather Service here.