Officials are warning county residents to prepare for possible flooding from the Washita River over the next 24 hours.
The National Weather Service issued a flood warning around 8:45 a.m. Wednesday morning for the Washita River near Pauls Valley affecting Garvin and Murray Counties. A similar warning was issued for the Lindsay area.
The National Weather Service is predicting the Washita River near Pauls Valley will crest at 31 feet, which is moderate flood stage, sometime after midnight. The river is expected to fall below flood stage, which is at 29 feet, Thursday morning.
According to information from the National Water Prediction Service, at 31 feet, shallow flooding could occur across much of Pauls Valley’s “old central business district” and buildings not flooded could be cut off by water in streets. Flooding of rural land upstream in western Garvin County, near Maysville, could also occur in the hours before the river crests at Pauls Valley.
Low lying areas in Lindsay could also experience flooding as the river is expected to crest there at 21 feet, which is moderate flood stage for that area.
The city of Pauls Valley has made sand and sandbags available at the Pauls Valley Fire Department, 201 S. Walnut St. Residents are being limited to about 10 sandbags each.
The city of Lindsay also has sand and sandbags available for residents at 801 Industrial, beside the Lindsay Police Station. Residents who need are not able to fill their own bags are asked to call the police station at 405-756-4481.
Garvin County Emergency Management Director David Johnson said Wednesday residents are encouraged to stay aware, be prepared and have a plan in place in the event they need to evacuate a flooded area.
Flood precautions and preparations recommended by the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management include:
- Packing a go-bag and reviewing family communication plans.
- If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
- Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood waters if you are in an area subject to flooding.
- If you must drive, DO NOT drive on flooded roads, and never drive around barricades.
- DO NOT walk, swim, or play in flood water. It can sweep you away, or may carry hazardous materials.
