Weather
Washoe County, NV Flood Watch Oct. 22: Heavy Rain Threat
Reno, NV – Residents and drivers across portions of northern Nevada and northeastern California are being urged to remain alert Thursday, Oct. 22, as a Flood Watch continues through early Friday morni
By Evan Cross · 2026-10-22T20:26:45.840Z
Reno, NV – Residents and drivers across portions of northern Nevada and northeastern California are being urged to remain alert Thursday, Oct. 22, as a Flood Watch continues through early Friday morning. Heavy rainfall could cause small streams to rise, flood rural roads and send sediment into drainage systems near wildfire burn scars.
According to the National Weather Service in Reno, the Flood Watch remains in effect until 5 a.m. PDT Friday, Oct. 23, for northern Washoe County and northwestern Pershing County in Nevada, along with northeastern Lassen County and Surprise Valley in California.
Thursday Afternoon and Evening — Heavy Rain Threat
Forecasters warn that heavy rainfall Thursday afternoon and evening could produce flooding in vulnerable locations.
Small creeks and streams may rise rapidly, while water could accumulate along rural roadways and low lying areas.
The National Weather Service has assigned the situation a Level 2 of 5, categorized as a minor flood risk.
Burn Scar Areas Face Additional Hazards
One of the primary concerns involves sediment runoff from the Biscar and S1 Vya wildfire burn scars.
Heavy rainfall over these areas could wash loose sediment and debris into nearby drainage channels, potentially clogging culverts and roadside ditches.
Vulnerable locations include remote ranches within and near the burn scars.
US 395 Drainage Areas Highlighted
Forecasters specifically identified culverts along U.S. Highway 395, from Stoney Creek Road north to Rye Patch Road, as locations where sediment accumulation could create drainage problems.
Drivers traveling through these areas should watch for water covering roadways, debris and rapidly changing conditions.
Friday, Oct. 23 — Runoff May Continue
Although the Flood Watch is scheduled to expire at 5 a.m. Friday, runoff could linger overnight.
Water levels in small streams and drainage areas may remain elevated even after the heaviest rainfall ends.
What Residents Should Know
The National Weather Service urges residents to remain weather aware and avoid driving or walking through flooded roads.
Floodwater can conceal damaged pavement, washed out road sections and dangerous currents.
Residents near burn scars, rural streams and drainage crossings should closely monitor conditions and follow instructions from local emergency officials.
A Flood Watch means flooding is possible, not that flooding has already been confirmed.