The Marys River is forecast to crest above flood stage Friday morning, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a flood warning effective from 3 a.m. Friday through 12:15 a.m. Saturday.
Minor flooding is anticipated in the Chapel Drive and Grange Hall Road area on Philomath’s south side, with potential impacts to sewer systems based on historical flooding patterns at similar river levels.
The river measured 9.39 feet at 2:15 p.m. Wednesday but is expected to rise sharply Thursday afternoon, cresting at 20.97 feet by 10 a.m. Friday — just under a foot above the 20-foot flood stage. Water levels should drop below flood stage by 4 a.m. Saturday and fall below 16 feet by Saturday evening.
Flooding concerns extend beyond the Marys River, according to Benton County Emergency Management.
“Smaller streams and tributaries around the county are likely to flood,” said Bryan Lee, Benton County emergency manager. “Now is the time to prepare, keep an eye on river levels and have a plan — especially for those living near rivers, creeks or low-lying areas.”
Sand and sandbags are available to the public at two Philomath locations:
- Public Works, 1515 Willow St. (access via South 15th Street; sand piled in open bay behind building)
- South 11th Street behind Philomath Community Library
Residents are advised to bring their own shovels.
The National Weather Service warns motorists not to drive around barricades or through flooded areas.
The warning comes as the region continues cleanup from Tuesday’s overnight windstorm that left up to 2,400 Pacific Power customers and 800 Consumer Power Inc. customers without electricity after trees and powerlines were downed.
Pacific Power urges the public to stay away from all downed powerlines and utility lines, warning that even nonsparking lines could be energized and dangerous. The company also advises keeping pets away from downed trees and powerlines.
Thursday and Friday will bring additional challenges with wind gusts up to 40 mph and heavy rain expected — most precipitation falling between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. Thursday. The forecast shows possible sunshine Friday afternoon with scattered showers overnight.