Natural Disasters • Flood Monitor
US Flood Monitor
February 7 2025
Severe flooding has struck various regions across the nation, posing imminent danger to affected communities. The Middle Pearl-Strong area has observed a dramatic rise in streamflow to 2250 cubic feet per second (cfs), over eleven times above normal levels, threatening towns along the Pearl River. Similarly, the Buffalo-San Jacinto watershed is experiencing catastrophic conditions with streamflow at 3456 cfs, over thirteen times the norm, which could severely impact cities like Houston. The Northern Okeechobee Inflow, Des Plaines region, and Gualala-Salmon watershed are also facing critical streamflow increases, with the latter at an alarming 1962% of normal flow, indicating a potential disaster in areas such as Gualala and Salmon. Conversely, the Lower St. Johns and Western Wild Rice regions show streamflows below average, which may indicate drought conditions rather than flooding risks.
In the Middle Pearl-Strong region, rapidly rising waters may soon inundate the city of Strong, where local authorities must swiftly execute evacuation plans to ensure resident safety. Meanwhile, the Buffalo-San Jacinto area, including parts of northeastern Harris County, could see extensive flooding, challenging the $37M drainage improvement project designed to combat such events. In the Des Plaines region, towns like Joliet are bracing for impacts on infrastructure and homes, with the potential for waterways to overflow and disrupt daily life. With the Gualala-Salmon watershed facing unprecedented flow rates, communities like Gualala could experience severe flooding, threatening both lives and property.
Amidst these flood threats, Florida's recent Severe Weather Awareness Week highlighted the need for hurricane and flood preparation, a timely reminder given the escalating flood conditions. As the nation grapples with severe weather, including potential hurricanes and flooding, it is crucial for residents in at-risk areas to stay informed and prepared for swift action. The Tampa City Council's approval of a $3M hurricane relief fund reflects the urgency of readiness for such natural disasters, while the prolonged recovery in Milton and Lake Bonny exemplifies the long-term hardships caused by severe flooding. With the memory of recent hurricanes still fresh, and as some residents continue to cope with the aftermath, the current flooding serves as a stark warning for communities to reinforce their resilience against the whims of nature's destructive power.
Across the Nation
As Mother Nature unleashes her might across the United States, communities from coast to coast brace for the impact of various natural disasters. In the Bluegrass State of Kentucky, relentless rains have necessitated flood warnings for Stoner Creek at Paris, Licking River at Blue Lick, and Green River at Paradise, urging residents to stay vigilant until the waters recede. The ... Read More
Rivers on the Rise
Inundated Regions