Eureka, CA – Residents along the Eel River near Fernbridge have only hours before rising water pushes past flood stage and threatens low-lying roads, including Highway 211, by 9 p.m. Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Eureka, a Flood Warning is in effect for the Eel River at Fernbridge from Tuesday evening through Wednesday morning. The river is forecast to rise above flood stage around 9 p.m., cresting at 20.6 feet just after midnight. Water levels are expected to fall back below flood stage by Wednesday morning.
Minor flooding is projected, but impacts could be significant in vulnerable areas. At 20 feet, floodwaters begin covering portions of Cannibal Island Road, Camp Weott Road and low-lying sections near the Salt Old River. Agricultural land in the Eel River Delta may also experience standing water, prompting a Special Action Advisory for livestock owners in low-lying pastures.
Highway 211 near Fernbridge could see water encroaching on shoulders or adjacent access roads if the crest verifies near 20.6 feet. Motorists are urged to avoid driving through flooded roadways, especially after dark when depth perception becomes more difficult. Most flood-related fatalities occur in vehicles.
Residents should move equipment and livestock to higher ground, secure outdoor belongings and monitor updates from Humboldt County officials. Additional advisories may be issued if rainfall intensifies or river levels rise faster than expected.
The Flood Warning remains in effect through Wednesday morning as forecasters monitor river gauges overnight.
