* WHAT. Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. * WHERE. The lower Matanuska River near Butte and Palmer as well as small rivers and streams between Sutton and Eureka. * WHEN. From 7 PM AKDT this evening through Monday afternoon. * IMPACTS. Heavy rainfall will lead to rapid runoff and rises in small streams draining the steep terrain along the Glenn Highway between Sutton and Eureka. Landslides are possible in landslide-prone areas along this corridor. Significant runoff is also expected to raise water levels on the Matanuska River, with some locations approaching bankfull by early Sunday morning. River levels may approach or even exceed those observed in early July, with increased bank erosion expected along the lower Matanuska River. While water levels may rise in small streams and rivers across the Matanuska-Susitna Valley, flooding is not expected west of the lower Matanuska River. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - Rainfall is expected to move from east to west across the Copper River Basin beginning tonight and lasting through Sunday morning. Projected rainfall totals with this storm are likely around 1 to 2 inches from Mendeltna to Sutton. Precipitation will become enhanced near terrain and along the northeast facing slopes of the Talkeetna and Chugach mountains. The heaviest rainfall is expected within the mountainous terrain along the Glenn Highway corridor between Sutton and Eureka. Ponding of water on roadways and erosion of unpaved surfaces is also possible. The Matanuska River at Palmer (MATA2) is expected to crest Sunday morning at 25100 cfs, which is below minor flood stage (30000 cfs). - Http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood - If you live near or along the Matanuska River, stay alert and be prepared to take action. - All residents on or near mountain slopes should be prepared for possible landslides.
