The National Weather Service issued a flood watch late Tuesday afternoon for much of Western Washington, including Lewis, Grays Harbor and Thurston counties.

    Heavy rainfall is predicted to develop in the mountains and coastal areas of Western Washington Thursday afternoon and continue into early Friday. Many rivers across Western Washington may go into flood stage Thursday night.

    The heavy rainfall, according to the National Weather Service, will occur at the same time freezing levels rise above 10,000 feet. Expect strong westerly winds.

    The greatest threat for flooding is on rivers flowing off the North Cascade mountains.

    Other counties under the flood watch are Clallam, Jefferson, Skagit, Whatcom, King, Mason, Pierce and Snohomish counties.

    A flood watch means if current forecasts are accurate, there is potential for flooding. Those living in flood-prone areas are urged to be ready to take appropriate action.