With the first significant flooding of the season expected this weekend, the King County Department of Transportation is advising motorists to be on the lookout for a variety of road problems.

The National Weather Service is advising the public that the forecast calling for heavy rain will likely cause rivers to rise in western Washington and may also cause urban flooding. Given this forecast, motorists should closely monitor weather reports and watch for flooded roads and debris over roadways.

If the heavy rain does cause rivers to rise, road crews will begin patrolling roads in low-lying areas that are particularly vulnerable to flooding. If road closures do become necessary, it may take a couple of days or more for the water to recede so they can be inspected for damage and reopened. So motorists planning to travel in flood-prone areas are advised to identify alternative travel routes to reach their destination.

Motorists are reminded never to driver around road closure signs of through deep standing water. Driving through flood water can cause your vehicle to stall or make you lose control, which can have life-threatening consequences.

Road crews will also be on the lookout for mudslides and urban flooding. Given current forecasts, virtually any part of the county may experience storm-related problems over the next several days.

Homeowners can help reduce the impact of heavy rain by making sure storm drains around their property are free of debris and are draining properly.

Residents who spot problems on roads maintained by King County should report them by calling the Road Services Division’s 24-hour help line at 206-296-8100 or 1-800 KC ROADS. You can also sign up for King County Road Alerts by visiting www.kingcounty.gov/roadalert.