Flood Watch Issued: Residents Urged to Prepare for Potential Flooding
Marion Soil and Water Conservation District wants to make residents aware of a Flood Watch that has been issued due to the potential for excessive rainfall and ongoing saturated soil conditions across much of western Oregon and southwest Washington. Washington is currently suffering from historic flooding due to unprecedented “atmospheric river” events. Although the sky may look blue today, keep in mind that these hazardous conditions are slated to start this evening, and can trigger additional hazards such as landslides and debris flows even after the flood watch has been lifted.
⚠️ What Is Happening?
Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues as a possibility in our area, especially as rivers and streams are already running high from earlier storms. 2-2.5 inches of rain is forecast in just 24 hours or less.
📍 Areas Affected
The current Flood Watch includes many portions of Oregon, including:
- the Marion and Linn County Cascade foothills
- Benton County Lowlands
- the Willamette Valley
- the Oregon Coast and Coast Range
- Portland Metro areas
- the Columbia River Gorge
- Cascade Foothills
- and surrounding lowlands.
Additional areas within the flood watch zone include southwest Washington, covering areas such as Clark, Cowlitz, and Wahkiakum Counties, the Willapa Hills, the South Washington Cascades, and the Columbia River Gorge.
Even though the official warning is expected to have higher risk in the Cascade foothills of the District, it is important to stay vigilant if you are located near any creeks or rivers. Visit this FEMA Flood Map Service Center webpage to search the flood risk in your area: https://msc.fema.gov/portal/search?AddressQuery=salem
⏰ Timing: Late Wednesday (12/18) evening through late Friday (12/20) night🌧️
Potential Impacts
- Flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying areas
- Urban and poor-drainage flooding
- Storm drains and ditches clogged with debris
- Increased risk of landslides and debris flows
- Serious hazards for people, homes, and roads near steep slopes, canyons, and stream channels
- Increased risk for down trees and powerlines due to saturated soils and wind
🌬️ Why This Matters
An atmospheric river is forecast to bring periods of heavy rain to the region while soils remain saturated.
- Thursday: Highest risk for urban and small-stream flooding
- Thursday night into Friday: River flooding threat increases, with several rivers forecast to reach Minor Flood Stage
Residents should monitor later forecasts and remain alert for possible Flood Warnings.
🏠 Flood Safety Tips
The County’s Emergency Management Department provides flood warning information at (503) 588-5108 or online at: http://www.co.marion.or.us/PW/EmergencyManagement/
Their website includes:
- Sign up for Emergency Alerts
- Sandbag locations
- Weather updates from the National Weather Service
- Road conditions, closures, and hazards
Additional floodplain resources are available through Marion County’s Floodplain Program.
Important Safety Reminders
- Prepare an evacuation plan: Identify a meeting place, escape routes, and safe locations outside the floodplain.
- Do not walk through flowing water: Just six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet.
- Do not drive through flooded roads: Most flood-related drownings occur in vehicles. Never drive around road barriers.
- Stay away from power lines: Water conducts electricity. Report downed lines immediately.
- Shut off gas and electricity if safe to do so and move valuables to higher ground.
- Watch for animals, on the roadways and adjacent areas that may seek shelter indoors.
- Look before you step: Floodwaters can leave sharp debris and slippery surfaces.
- Be alert for gas leaks: Use a flashlight, not open flames, and ventilate areas before re-entry.
Stay Informed, Stay Safe
Those living in flood-prone areas should be prepared to act if flooding develops. Continue to monitor weather updates and heed guidance from local emergency officials.
Protecting our soil, water, and community starts with preparedness.
Visit Marion County Flood Preparedness website for more information.
