Spokane Mayor David Condon today declared an emergency because of Spokane River flooding around the city. The declaration authorizes more city resources can be mobilized to protect against flooding caused by rising river levels.
Current National Weather Service modeling shows the river will likely crest tonight. Water levels are expected to remain above flood stage into next week.
“Rising river levels are posing a real threat to public safety so we are imploring people to stay out of the river and to view it only from safe vantage points,” Condon said. “We are also coordinating with emergency management to mobilize additional resources to monitor and address localized flooding.”
Upriver Drive remains closed from Mission Avenue to Greene Street. South Riverton under the Greene Street Bridge and Water Avenue at Ash Street also remains closed. The Spokane Parks Department closed the suspension bridges over the river in the park because of safety concerns and the Centennial Trail under Division Street and the Washington Street couplet because of flooding.
City crews have dropped off sandbags in impacted neighborhoods and are evaluating the need for more. Additionally, crews are monitoring in the Peaceful Valley, Riverview and Iron Bridge areas, and along Upriver Drive for additional flooding impacts.
The city is also monitoring low-lying sewer pump stations near flooded areas to ensure ongoing operations. Bridge teams have inspected city bridges for potential impacts caused by rising water levels.