Portland, Oregon – Residents across northwest Oregon and southwest Washington could see rapid rises in creeks and urban flooding beginning after 5 p.m. today, as a surge of heavy rainfall moves into the Portland metro and Willamette Valley through Friday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Portland, a Flood Watch is in effect from 5 p.m. Wednesday through Friday evening for a large portion of the region including Portland, Hillsboro, Salem, McMinnville, Astoria, Tillamook, Vancouver, Longview, and the Columbia River Gorge.
Forecasters warn that excessive rainfall could trigger flooding of creeks, streams, and low-lying roads, particularly in urban areas where storm drains may become overwhelmed. Areas near Johnson Creek in southeast Portland and the Pudding River near Aurora are being closely monitored as water levels rise.
Major travel routes including Interstate 5, Interstate 84 through the Columbia River Gorge, and Highway 26 toward the Oregon Coast Range could experience ponding water and reduced visibility during heavier rain bands.
Officials also warn that landslides and debris flows are possible, especially along steep slopes in the West Hills, Coast Range communities, and Cascade foothills near Sandy and Estacada. Homes, roads, and structures located below steep terrain or canyon mouths may face increased risk during prolonged rainfall.
Another river concern is developing for the Pudding River at Aurora, where water levels may approach flood stage of 22 feet beginning Saturday evening and continuing into Monday if rainfall totals materialize.
Residents in flood-prone areas should monitor forecasts, clear storm drains, and prepare for potential road closures, as additional flood warnings could be issued if rainfall intensifies later this week.
