National Weather Service Predicts Increased Chance of Flooding due to Accelerated Snowmelt, Thunderstorms
Minden, NV – Due to an increase in temperatures causing rapidly melting snowpack, Douglas County is urging residents to prepare for potential flooding. According to the National Weather Service, “Warm conditions will continue to accelerate snowmelt this week, along with increased reservoir releases, leading to higher streamflow on all area waterways. Points on the Carson and Walker River systems will rise past flood stage the next couple days. The Walker will likely see moderate flood stages starting this weekend.”
The most-severe impacts are predicted to take place Saturday, May 20 through Monday, May 22, with an increased chance of thunderstorms leading to a possibility of localized flooding.
Residents should be prepared for potential road closures. Get the most up-to-date information on road closures and flood updates by following the County on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Nextdoor.
Douglas County offers the following tips and resources:
GENERAL TIPS
- If you approach a flooded road, path, or walkway follow this rule: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
- Driving through flooded roadways can be deadly.
- As few as 12 inches of moving floodwater can be enough to float and carry away a small vehicle.
- Six inches of moving water can knock an adult off their feet.
- Driving through six inches of standing water can cause vehicles to lose control and stall. Avoid flooded roads.
- Be aware of areas where water has receded. Roads may have weakened could collapse under the weight of a vehicle.
- Even a small amount of floodwater can hide dangers such as road collapse and debris.
EVACUATION
While there are currently no evacuations in place due to flooding in Douglas County, keep these tips in mind to stay prepared should an evacuation happen:
- Sign up for Douglas County Reverse 911 here.
- Prepare for a flood by knowing your evacuation routes, how you will get there, and where you will stay.
- Get your “go bag” ready today in case you need to leave quickly due to a flood.
- If authorities advise or order an evacuation, do so immediately. But, do not enter floodwaters in order to evacuate.
- If flooding is imminent or occurring, evacuate to higher ground if you are in a flood prone area. But, do not enter floodwaters in order to seek higher ground.
Click here visit Douglas County’s website, which includes the most up-to-date information.