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US States Brace for Holiday Floods: Rivers Overwhelmed
21 Dec
Summary
- Atmospheric rivers are causing widespread flooding across several US states.
- Major rivers like the Skokomish and Pudding are exceeding flood levels.
- Holiday travel faces significant disruption from flooding and landslides.
Multiple states across the U.S. are on alert for further overnight flooding into the upcoming week, impacting the crucial Christmas travel period. Atmospheric rivers are drenching western regions, with significant riverine flooding expected in Washington and Oregon.
The Skokomish River in Washington is anticipated to remain above flood stage through Wednesday, Christmas Eve, with projections indicating a rise to 17.8 feet by Tuesday. In Oregon, the Pudding River at Aurora is experiencing considerable flooding, with levels nearly three feet above flood stage as of Sunday morning. Northern California counties are also warned of potential flooding and slides.
Authorities are advising motorists to avoid flooded roads and never drive around barricades, emphasizing that most flood-related fatalities occur in vehicles. The heavy precipitation and high winds could lead to power outages, and recently burned areas face an increased risk of flash flooding and debris flows, complicating holiday journeys.
