City Prepares for Expected Minor Flooding; Urges Continued Extreme Caution Around Rive

With the Spokane River at flood stage and water levels expected to continue to rise for the next few days, the City of Spokane’s Public Works Division and Fire Department are preparing for additional expected minor flooding and are continuing to urge citizens to use extreme caution around the Spokane River.

some flooding may occur in other areas, the City is anticipating that the Spokane River will spill onto:

Upriver Drive east of Mission Street.
Water Street at its dead end in Peaceful Valley.

Street Department crews will close these sections of street if the water extends over the pavement. Motorists would be required to use alternate routes. Barricades are already in place on the Centennial Trail along Upriver Drive between Mission and Greene streets, and some public benches in this area are under water.
Right now, the City is expecting only minor flooding along the Spokane River. Street crews have sandbags and sand ready for use on public property if forecasts change for the worse. Property owners who live or have businesses along the river should assess their own risk of flooding and take appropriate steps to mitigate any potential damage.

More information on flood preparation and cautions can be found at bt.cdc.gov or at weather.gov
Meanwhile, City Fire officials repeat their safety concerns about the river. The entire river is running high and fast, and water temperatures remain very cold. The National Weather Service now says the Spokane River will crest sometime on Friday afternoon or early Saturday, however it is anticipated that the river will remain above flood stage until late this month.

The City is reminding residents to use extreme caution around the river:

Don’t allow children to play in the river. Moving water six inches deep can knock an adult off their feet, and the swift current can move a person downstream quickly. Cold water temperatures also can cause hypothermia.

Don’t attempt to drive over flooded roads. Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling. A foot of water will float many vehicles. Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles and pick-ups.

Observe road closure signs and stay out of barricaded areas. Remember that portions of the Centennial Trail along Upriver Drive are barricade off. Please obey that signage.
Be aware of the large debris in the river. Higher water levels are pushing logs and other large debris into the river, increasing the danger to people.

Call 9-1-1 immediately if you have an emergency along the river! With these conditions, problems can develop rapidly. Don’t wait to make that emergency call.