Flood watch issued for this weekend

For Immediate Release: Friday, December 19, 2014

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch from Saturday afternoon through Monday. We could see up to 6 to 12 inches of rain in the Coast Range and 2 to 5 inches in the valley, increasing the potential for flooding on Coast Range tributaries such as the Tualatin River. Landslides and debris flows are possible below steep slopes.

The public is asked to keep storm drains clear to reduce local flooding. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop. Self-service sandbag sites are located throughout the county if needed.

Travelers are advised not to move or drive around barricades. Never enter areas where water covers the roadway. Even a few inches of flowing water can sweep you off the road. If you encounter water flowing across the road, turn around - don't drown.

Crews will respond to reports of high water on roadways as quickly as possible. But in the meantime, slow down and watch for the unexpected.

To request help or report a road hazard:

• Life threatening - emergency response - call 9-1-1
• Report a road hazard - after hours - non-emergency response - 503-629-0111
• Report a road hazard - during business hours M-F 8am-5pm - 503-846-ROAD (503-846-7623) or [email protected]
• Submit an online request for a non-emergency road service (monitored M-F 8am-5pm)

For local flooding:

• In city neighborhoods and on roads inside cities - call appropriate city
• In urban unincorporated areas - call Clean Water Services at 503-681-3600

Visit ODOT's webpage for driving in the rain tips.

For a list of roads impacted by high water, visit the Washington County Roads (www.wc-roads.com) website. For Washington County road alerts, follow @WashCoRoads on Twitter.

Washington County is committed to planning, building and maintaining a great transportation system, ensuring the safety of all roadway users, and to operating the county system in a cost-effective and environmentally responsible manner.

Media Contact:

Stephen Roberts, Communications Coordinator
503-846-4963
[email protected]