Heavy rains cause flooding and landslides in Stehekin

SEDRO WOOLLEY, Wash. - Severe flooding and landslides from recent heavy rains caused unsafe conditions and limited basic services in Lake Chelan National Recreation Area and the Stehekin Valley. A Type 3 Incident Command Team is in place to coordinate emergency response. The team, alongside Chelan County Emergency Management, is working to ensure people are safe and have access to supplies and immediate essentials. Visitors should not travel to the Stehekin area; there are no services available.

The Stehekin Valley Road is significantly damaged. It was blocked for several days due to slides and debris, initially restricting access to the Landing. The road remains severely damaged and can only be used by 4-wheel drive vehicles. The Wastewater Treatment Plant that services the Landing, including the North Cascades Lodge at Stehekin and National Park Service facilities, was destroyed.

Yesterday crews worked primarily to assess slides and stabilize and open the road. Crews cleared debris from the road down valley to gain access to the Landing and up valley to assess facilities.

Today crews focused their efforts on preparing for the forecasted wind, rain, and freezing temperatures.

On Saturday, out of an abundance of caution, the Chelan County Sheriff's Office issued an evacuation order for the Stehekin Valley due to heavy rains predicted Monday. Slide areas may become unstable, and creeks and drainages are expected to rise.

Flooding and landslides also exist in other areas of North Cascades National Park Service Complex. Check road conditions prior to your visit and be prepared forwinter travel and safety.

www.nps.gov/noca