Oregon – Cold morning air hangs over eastern Oregon as water continues moving through creeks and rivers near Pendleton. Snowmelt from nearby mountains is feeding streams across the region, keeping minor flooding active along parts of the Umatilla River basin.
According to the National Weather Service in Pendleton, a Flood Advisory remains in effect until noon today for portions of Umatilla, Union, and Wallowa counties in Oregon, as well as Columbia and Walla Walla counties in Washington. Elevated runoff from melting snow has pushed streams higher than normal across the region.
The Umatilla River near Gibbon has already reached flood stage. River levels climbed to around 7.5 feet, above the 6-foot flood stage, leading to minor flooding in nearby pastures and low-lying land along the river.
Emergency managers say minor flooding has been reported along smaller creeks and drainage areas near Pendleton, Milton-Freewater, Athena, Weston, Adams, and Helix. Rural roads near waterways may see water crossing pavement in isolated locations.
Drivers traveling along Interstate 84, Highway 11, and Highway 395 should remain alert for water near low-water crossings and drainage areas.
Temperatures remain cool today with highs near 52°F, allowing snowmelt to continue but at a gradual pace. A small chance of rain arrives tonight and into Monday, though additional rainfall is expected to remain limited.
By St. Patrick’s Day Tuesday, warmer temperatures near 70°F will settle across eastern Oregon as the region transitions toward spring.
River levels are expected to slowly fall later today and tonight, though water may remain elevated along smaller streams for a short time.
Five Day Outlook for Pendleton, Oregon
Today: Mostly cloudy with a high near 52°F. Flood Advisory through midday.
Monday: Mostly cloudy with slight rain chance. High near 67°F.
Tuesday (St. Patrick’s Day): Mostly cloudy with slight rain chance. High near 70°F.
Wednesday: Mostly cloudy and warmer, 70°F.
Thursday: Mostly cloudy with highs near 74°F.
