Rain signals flash floods for wildfires

A potential second disaster loomed over Central Washington in the form of rain clouds that threaten flash floods for the wildfire-stricken area. By late afternoon, at least one mudslide had been reported along the Entiat River Road, according to the Wenatchee World.The weather service extended its warning of possible flash floods until 11 p.m. tonight, even as 2,100 firefighters continue to battle the largest wildfire in Washington history, the Carlton Complex.The flood watch was prompted as forecasts predicted thunderstorms spreading across Central Washington and causing moderate to heavy rainfall over the eastern slopes of the Northern Cascades. The weather services noted that in as little as 10 minutes, heavy rain on a slope can cause a flash flood because a fire has burned away the slope’s vegetation. Concern has also been raised over the storms sparking lightning-caused fires. Amid the storm forecasts, President Obama signed an emergency declaration Wednesday authorizing federal services for disaster relief and help in providing resources for local and state agencies. — J.B.