Melting snowpack is expected to raise river, stream flows in Northwest Oregon and Southwest Washington this week, with some locations nearing flood levels. Temperatures in the Northern Cascades and Coast Range are expected to reach the mid-40s on Monday, April 10.
The Coast Range and Willapa Hills drainage basins will likely be the worst hit. Among the local rivers expected to see the most significant water level rise is the Tualatin River near Dilley, the Luckiamute River near Suver, the Grays River near Rosburg, the Wilson River near Tillamook, the South Yamhill River near McMinnville, and the Pudding River near Aurora, according to data provided by the National Weather Service.
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Snowmelt Causes Local Waterways to Rise
In a dangerous weather notice issued on Monday, April 10, the NWS said that none of these rivers are forecast to exceed the flood threshold. In contrast, several are forecast to fall within inches of minor flood conditions. The highest tides are predicted to occur on Tuesday and Wednesday.
The NWS noted, “Generally, extensive river flooding is not forecast with this storm,” but the possibility of minor flooding was strong enough to warrant an alert.
The NWS cautions that the area may get as much as two inches of rain early this week, making for treacherous driving conditions. It will be possible for water to pool on roads, significantly increasing the danger of hydroplaning. In these wet circumstances, driving speeds should be reduced.
