The City of South Bend is closely monitoring the weather forecast over the next few days, which could bring rain on Sunday and Monday in addition to warmer temperatures. The anticipated rain over the next few days is less than 0.5 inches and does not present a flood risk at this time.
As a comparison, the current conditions combined with the forecast for Sunday and Monday are quantitatively different than conditions prior to the 500-year flood event in February 2018. Not only is the St. Joseph River at a lower level with a smaller volume of snow on the ground, but less rain is also predicted over the next few days. Today’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 7:00 a.m. reading of the St. Joseph River shows it is currently at two feet with zero flood warnings or watches forecasted. Flood stage for the river is measured at 5.5 feet.
During the 2018 flood event, South Bend saw 8.3 inches of rain over three days on top of previously elevated river levels. The City wants to reassure residents that while it’s closely monitoring the changing temperatures, the chance of major flooding over the next few days is significantly low due to current river levels, snow melts and predicted precipitation.
As a precaution, residents are asked to help clear catch basins near their homes to make sure they are free of snow and debris, giving water a direct path to the city’s sewer system.
If residents see a flooded street or experience basement flooding, they should report it to 311. If it happens after hours or on a weekend, residents should still call 311 and follow the prompts for sewer emergency.
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