New flooding anticipated with continued rainfall

Drivers urged to avoid flooded streets

November 28, 2021 - by Janice Keller, Communications Director

City of Bellingham Public Works crews are monitoring conditions and barricading City streets today (Sunday, November 28, 2021) as continued rainfall and saturated soils cause localized flooding. Several City streets are limited or closed this morning, including Iowa Street at I-5.

Two inches of rainfall was measured overnight (midnight to 7 a.m. November 28) at Bellingham’s Post Point treatment facility, with more anticipated.

“We want to remind everyone that – for your safety and the safety of others – never drive through flooded streets or streets that are marked closed with barricades,” said Chad Schulhauser, Public Works assistant director. “People should also avoid contact with floodwaters as they likely contain fuel, oil, sewage and other contaminants.”

City crews have continued to clean up from historic rainfall and flooding in mid-November while preparing for the latest storm. Streets and stormwater catch basins continue to be cleared to help ensure the stormwater system will be able to function to its full capacity. Whatcom Creek flows remain high and water releases from Lake Whatcom continue in order to keep lake and creek levels manageable during continuing rainy days.

Contacts

Safety tips

  • Avoid unnecessary trips during inclement weather.
  • Obey street closure signs and do not drive around barricades.
  • Avoid contact with floodwater and standing water, which may be contaminated.
  • Do not enter streets or intersections if you see water over the road, even if the street is not signed or barricaded.
  • Stay away from wooded areas, such as parks and trails during high winds.
  • Stay away from flooded creeks, as the water is rushing swiftly and currents are extremely strong. Also avoid trail bridges crossing creeks or streams during flood conditions, as they could be undermined by floodwaters.

Media Contact

Janice Keller, Communications Director
City of Bellingham
jkeller@cob.org

 


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