The maximum rainfall from the recent storm event was focused further south than Humboldt County. It will likely hit Mendocino County and southward. The river height projections for the Eel and Van Duzen rivers were changed due to our area receiving less rainfall that forecast. While there is still localized flooding in places around the county, the Eel River at Fernbridge is the only main stem river that is projected to flood today.
If the focus of the maximum rainfall had been more northward to include southern Humboldt County, that would have led to increased stage height and flow in the main stem of the Eel River and the South Fork of the Eel River. According to the National Weather Service, the reported precipitation amounts across Humboldt County varied between 1.5 and 4.25 inches. The forecast was for 2 to 5 inches with higher amounts over the mountains.
Regarding the Eel River at Fernbridge, there is projected to be significant flooding of the western portions of Cannibal Island Road, Camp Weott Road, the Salt and Old Rivers and all adjacent low-lying areas. Flooding in these areas is exaggerated when crest timing is coincident with high tides and strong onshore winds, and for longer duration events. A Special Action Advisory is being issued to all owners of livestock in low-lying areas of the Eel Delta. These animals are at risk due to rising river levels and appropriate action should be considered.
Further impacts to roads include:
• Port Kenyon Road is closed due to flooding
• Coffee Creek Road is closed due to flooding
• Thomas Road is closed 2 miles up from Salmon Creek due to tree and power lines in the roadway
• Centerville Road is closed 4 miles out of Ferndale due to power lines in the roadway
• Berta Road is closed due to a tree down near valley
While the rivers did not reach heights that were originally forecast, it is important to note that citizens should be prepared to deal with flood impacts when there is an anticipated event. For more information on how to prepare your home visit www.floodsafety.noaa.gov.
For information on County road conditions and closures, call 707-445-7421 or visit humboldtgov.org/roads. For information on all State highways, call 1-800-GAS-ROAD (1-800-427-7623), or visit CalTrans QuickMap online.
You can also follow the Humboldt County Office of Emergency Services (OES) on Twitter @HumCoOES or Humboldt County @HumCoGov.
Visit the National Weather Service site to monitor local rivers at http://www.cnrfc.noaa.gov. You can also bookmark the following links: