Flash flood watch posted for Inland NW

A strong spring storm moved into North Idaho and Eastern Washington, dumping rain in northern Spokane County and prompting flood warnings. The lingering storm is expected to bring rain throughout the night. A flash flood watch is in effect across the region. Storm cells may be slow moving, which could cause flooding, forecasters said. National Weather Service forecasters said that weather radar showed the potential for large hail over southeast Washington, but the storm would more likely evolve into a heavy rain event by tonight. Torrential rain was occurring with the storm about 4:15 p.m. Wind gusts to 60 mph are possible. Hail could be as large as a quarter. Radar images show the storm tracking from south toward the north to northeast. Another severe thunderstorm warning was posted for an area of Grant and Adams counties just south of Interstate 90 and west of Othello on Monday evening. Storms were also spotted on radar on the Waterville Plateau of the Columbia Basin. Areas as far west as Lake Chelan may be affected. A flash flood warning was posted for a part of the Blue Mountains east of Walla Walla. Flood advisories were issued for the Blue Mountains in Oregon and along a piece of northern Stevens County. Forecasters said the strongest weather tonight should occur over portions of the central and North Idaho panhandle.