Culbertson, Neb. – Rising waters along the Frenchman Creek are pushing into minor flood stage, prompting a Flood Warning for Hitchcock County through Thursday morning. Low-lying areas near Culbertson are already seeing flooding impacts as river levels remain above bankfull.
According to the National Weather Service in Goodland, the Frenchman Creek measured 8.8 feet Wednesday afternoon, well above the 7-foot flood stage. The river is forecast to fall below flood level by Thursday evening, but additional rises are possible into the weekend.
Local emergency officials urge residents to avoid flooded roads, where most flood-related deaths occur. Drivers are reminded not to bypass barricades, and pedestrians should stay away from riverbanks where swift currents may be dangerous.
Motorists traveling near Culbertson and surrounding parts of Hitchcock County should plan alternate routes tonight and early Thursday, as water continues to back up into rural roads and farmland.
The Flood Warning is expected to remain in effect until at least 8:30 a.m. Thursday, with further advisories possible depending on river behavior.
