Southwest Oregon Facing Flash Floods Until Late on Sunday Afternoon

Excessive rainfall and flash floods have been predicted for southwest Oregon and northern California from this morning (Saturday) until late Sunday afternoon.

Weather Warnings Issued for Low-Lying Areas West of the Cascades

The Flood Watch has been issued for low-lying areas west of the Cascades – this includes Cave Junction, Coos Bay, Gold Beach, Grants Pass, Roseburg, Mount Shasta City, and Yreka.

The National Weather Service (NWS) warns residents living near rivers, streams, and creeks to prepare for evacuation if conditions deteriorate. The NWS has also appealed to motorists to remain off flooded roads, warning that water depths can be dangerous and deceptive.

Flooding of creeks, rivers, and streams is predicted by the NWS which says excessive rainfall could also impact urban areas with poor drainage systems.

The NWS has forecast 8 inches of rain along the southern Oregon coastline, between 3 and 6 inches in mountainous areas, and between 1 and 3 inches in the Rogue Valley, stretching westwards.

Infrastructures could face challenges, with debris in stormwater drainage systems hindering flow and adding to flash flood conditions, according to the NWS.

Residents in the red zone areas must monitor weather updates and remain vigilant throughout the predicted heavy rainfall period.

The NWS recommends that residents protect their properties by keeping drainage systems free of debris and moving valuables to higher ground, if necessary.