(WNY News Now) – Residents in Croghan and Surrounding Areas Brace as Beaver River Reaches Critical Levels, NWS Issues Dire Warning.
A Flood Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Buffalo NY, effective until 6:15 PM EDT today, July 11th. Small stream flooding, triggered by heavy rainfall, persists in Lewis County, specifically impacting the Beaver River and adjacent tributaries.
As of 8:44 AM EDT, gauge reports confirm the Beaver River has surged to 6.5 feet and continues to rise, fueled by recent intense downpours. Significant consequences are already evident, with flooding encroaching upon low-lying and flood-prone locales across the warned region. Areas such as Croghan, Kirschnerville, Beaver Falls, and Belfort are anticipated to bear the brunt of these conditions.
Historically, the river’s flood stages are well-documented, with notable impacts at various levels: at 5.5 feet, flooding disrupts riverside campgrounds; at 6.0 feet, portions of Croghan and Beaver Falls face inundation; and at the current 6.5 feet, homes on Croghan’s island are now threatened. The record flood stage, set at 7.0 feet on May 21st, 1969, serves as a stark reminder of the potential severity.
The NWS emphasizes the critical importance of caution during such events, urging residents to avoid flooded roads (“turn around, don’t drown”) and to stay informed about local watercourses. Campers and hikers are advised to steer clear of streams and creeks, which can swiftly escalate into perilous situations during heavy rainfall.
Local emergency services and law enforcement have been alerted to monitor and report any observed flooding, ensuring swift action can be taken to safeguard affected communities. For ongoing updates and safety guidelines, residents are encouraged to visit the NWS’s flood safety page at http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood.
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