Key Takeaways
- A Flood Watch has been issued for northwestern Oregon and southern Washington from Thursday until Saturday due to steady rainfall.
- Multiple rivers in Oregon and Washington are expected to flood, with some reaching moderate to major flooding levels.
- Residents near flood-prone areas should be aware of the dangers of flooding, including the risk of being swept away by fast-moving water.
- It only takes 6 inches of fast-moving water to sweep an adult off their feet, and 1 foot of water to carry away most cars.
- Several rivers, including the Clackamas River, Hood River, and Johnson Creek, are under Flood Warnings or Watches.
Introduction to the Flood Warning
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for northwestern Oregon and southern Washington, effective from Thursday until Saturday. This warning comes as a result of steady rainfall expected in the region, which may trigger floods across the already-soaked states. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has forecasted that multiple rivers in Oregon and Washington will flood, with some reaching moderate to major flooding levels. As a result, residents in the affected areas are advised to be aware of the dangers of flooding and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Rivers Expected to Flood
Several rivers in Oregon and Washington are expected to flood, including the Clackamas River, Hood River, Johnson Creek, Klickitat River, Luckiamute River, Molalla River, Nehalem River, Pudding River, Sandy River, Siletz River, South Yamhill River, and Willamette River. The Clackamas River, in particular, is expected to reach moderate to major flooding levels near Oregon City and Estacada by early Friday morning. The Hood River County has declared a local state of emergency and flood warning for any low-lying areas, while Johnson Creek is expected to see major flooding starting Thursday night and into Friday morning. The NOAA has also forecasted minor flooding for the Molalla River near Canby and the Sandy River.
Dangers of Flooding
It is essential for residents in flood-prone areas to be aware of the dangers of flooding. Even a few inches of water on the roadway can cause significant hazards, and fast-moving water can be particularly deadly. According to the National Weather Service, it only takes 6 inches of fast-moving water to sweep an adult off their feet, and just 1 foot of water to carry away most cars. This highlights the importance of exercising extreme caution when driving or walking in flood-prone areas. Residents are advised to stay informed about the latest weather conditions and flood warnings, and to follow evacuation orders if necessary.
Precautions and Warnings
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Warning for several rivers, including the Clackamas River, Hood River, and Johnson Creek. A Flood Watch is also in effect for the region, which means that flooding is possible and residents should be prepared to take action. The NOAA National Water Prediction Service provides data on river levels and flooding forecasts, which can help residents stay informed about the latest conditions. However, it is essential to note that conditions are subject to change, and residents should stay up-to-date with the latest information from trusted sources.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, the Flood Watch issued for northwestern Oregon and southern Washington is a serious warning that residents should not ignore. With multiple rivers expected to flood, it is crucial for residents to be aware of the dangers of flooding and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. By staying informed about the latest weather conditions and flood warnings, residents can take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones. It is also essential to follow evacuation orders and exercise extreme caution when driving or walking in flood-prone areas. By working together, residents can minimize the risks associated with flooding and stay safe during this period of heavy rainfall.
