Crook County update: Rising water prompts short-lived flood alert, but evacuations no longer expected

(Update: Crook County undersheriff says no current risk)

PRINEVILLE, Ore. (KTVZ) – Authorities warned the public Thursday about a threat of imminent flooding and possible evacuations for a few hours in some areas along Ochoco Creek and the Crooked River, but later reduced the level of concern.

Prineville police advised in an "urgent" midday Facebook post of an expected increase in water levels and that “Level 2 (Be Ready to quickly leave) evacuation notices may be issued in the next few hours."

But the situation had improved by mid-afternoon, as police said in an update: "At this time, evacuations are not anticipated. However, you may notice rising water levels or pooling water in some areas. Please use caution while driving!"

Crook County Undersheriff Bill Elliott told KTVZ News a short time later: "The information presented this morning sounded like there might be some flooding.  After further review, I don't believe there is any risk currently.  We are continuing to monitor the status of the outflows of water and working with all of the community partners to ensure that we minimize the risk of flooding." 

City of Prineville spokeswoman ShanRae Hawkins told us: "At this time, evacuations are not anticipated. However, residents may notice rising water levels or pooling in some areas. We’re encouraging the public to use caution, especially while driving."

Community members can sign up for alerts at www.alertcrookcounty.org

Residents of the affected areas who have signed up for Crook County’s Everbridge alerts would receive a text message, should conditions warrant.

Sandbags were made available at the Crook County Road Department. Residents were advised to bring a shovel to fill sandbags: “Bags and sand are provided, but you will need to fill them yourself.”

Residents were also asked not to call 911 unless they are experiencing an emergency.

“If you live along the Ochoco Creek or the Crooked River water basins, please pay attention to rising creek and river levels,” the police agency advised.

“Be ready to evacuate,” they said. “Do not attempt to cross or enter swift-running water.”

The National Weather Service in Pendleton advised that warmer temperatures this week will increase the snowmelt of the mid- and high-elevation snowpack, followed by mountain rain later in the week.

“Saturated mountain soils will allow for efficient runoff and will increase water levels on mountain rivers, creeks and streams,” forecasters said.

The primary concern is over the John Day River at Service Creek, which is expected to reach minor flood stage Friday and Saturday, peaking Friday afternoon.

"People with activities near creeks and streams should exercise caution as flows will be swift and very cold water can quickly lead to hypothermia if someone were to fall into the water," the NWS said.

"Those with interests along rivers, creeks and streams should continue to monitor forecasts, as there is some uncertainty in the expected water levels," forecasters said.