GRAY — A flood watch warning has been issued by the U.S. National Weather Service for northern Oxford and Franklin counties, and central Somerset county due to heavy rain showers expected to begin this afternoon.

Towns north of Rumford, Farmington and Skowhegan have a “slight risk” of severe weather caused by slow moving showers and thunderstorms. Due to heavy rain last week, the ground is already saturated with water, leading to the threat for flash flooding, according to the warning.

“Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations,” it states. “Low-water crossings may be flooded.”

The flood watch warning is in effect from noon to 10 p.m. Friday

Western Maine has been hit by several flash floods this year, most recently one in Franklin County last week. The storm caused major damage to numerous roads, rendering some sections impassable for weeks.