Grants Pass, Oregon, is bracing for the impact of significant rainfall as the Rogue River rises to its highest levels in recent memory. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Warning, effective until midnight Friday, replacing an earlier Flood Watch. Residents are being urged to prepare for hazardous conditions, including flooding, debris flows, and rockslides.
The Rogue River, historically prone to flooding, has experienced over a dozen significant events in the past 160 years. The most catastrophic flood occurred in 1861, with an estimated flow of 175,000 cubic feet per second (CFS), dwarfing the average summer flow of 1,825 CFS recorded in 2018. Another major event in 1964 saw floodwaters peak at 152,000 CFS, inundating large portions of the city and causing extensive damage.
Flood control measures have improved since then. The completion of the Lost Creek Dam in 1977, located 55 miles upstream, has significantly mitigated the severity of flooding. For example, during the January 1997 flood, the dam reduced the river’s flow to 90,100 CFS, far below the 1964 peak.
As of December 21, 2024, the Rogue River’s gage height was recorded at 2.87 feet. While this remains well below the flood stage of 20 feet, continued rainfall could rapidly change conditions. The record gage height was 35.15 feet during the infamous 1964 flood.
The forecast predicts persistent rainfall through the weekend, with heavy downpours likely on Saturday, December 28, and Sunday, December 29. These conditions heighten the risk of localized flooding and mudslides, particularly in areas with saturated soil.
City officials are emphasizing the importance of the stormwater management system, which plays a critical role in directing runoff and preventing urban flooding. Blocked stormwater systems can render roads impassable and introduce pollutants into natural waterways, further complicating the situation. The city’s Stormwater Division is actively monitoring conditions to address potential hazards.
Residents living in flood-prone areas are encouraged to take precautions. Emergency kits, evacuation plans, and staying informed through official channels are key steps to ensure safety. Avoiding flooded roadways is also critical, as even shallow water can be deceptively dangerous.
The Rogue River’s current levels remain below flood stage, but the potential for rapid changes underscores the need for vigilance. Grants Pass residents are reminded that preparation and adherence to safety advisories can make a significant difference in minimizing the impact of the weather.
As heavy rains continue, the community is urged to remain alert, proactive, and ready for any developments. Together, residents and local authorities aim to weather this storm with minimal disruption and damage.
