The U.S. Forest Service asks visitors to use caution in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest as days of heavy rain have caused flooding and increased the risk of landslides, debris flow and downed trees.
Recently burned areas and the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument are especially susceptible to landslides, according to a Forest Service press release. The chances are highest in pre-disturbed areas like roads and trails.
The rain has also affected some roads in and around the forest. On Friday afternoon, sections of U.S. Highway 12 and state Route 131 flooded sections near Randle. An updated list of affected roads is available on the Gifford Pinchot website.
The Forest Service warns that visitors should not drive on roads that are underwater or partially washed out.
It recommends that visitors bring winter supplies along with essentials such as a map, flashlight, matches, first aid kits and extra food and water.
