Cosmopolis, Washington – Drivers on Blue Slough Road faced an unusual hazard during a rainstorm when a large sea lion blocked traffic on Thursday afternoon.

The Cosmopolis Police Department shared on social media that the “large friend” was seen lingering in the roadway amid the heavy rains.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife was notified, and enforcement officers arrived with a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration agent.

Rescuers successfully hazed the sea lion out of the road and guided it back into a nearby river.

Experts noted that sea lions come ashore for various reasons, including resting, avoiding predators, and regulating body temperature.

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