High Water & Flooding
By Ogden City
Spring brings warmer weather, and with it the snow and ice have started melting, feeding into the Ogden River and other waterways in Weber County. Every year there are concerns with the river, which begins to flow at a much higher rate due to the melting snow. In addition, the water can be unpredictable due to debris that will be flowing with it. Please be aware of streams, canyons, and other areas susceptible to flooding.
Flooding/High Water Warnings
Take caution when traveling around the river as it will be very cold and moving fast. Don’t walk or drive through flooded areas with 6 inches of water or more. Ogden City has been closely monitoring this year’s snowpack and preparing in case the weather gets a wild idea to heat up faster than is helpful. The city is prepared with sandbags if waterways are overwhelmed, and it becomes necessary along streams or rivers. Ogden will be supplying sandbags for floodwater; however, will not supply sandbags for seepage, groundwater, or runoff that is not related to streams or rivers. Flooding is the leading cause of property dollar loss in Weber County. The city’s previous work on the Ogden River has reduced the effects of flooding within the city immensely but is still susceptible to flooding. Homeowners are responsible for their homes and can help mitigate problems
by considering the following tips:
- Know your risk for flooding in your area, and plan accordingly.
- Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel if susceptible to flooding.
- Install “check valves” in sewer traps to prevent floodwater from backing up into the drains of your home.
- Construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering your structure.
- Residents are encouraged to consider having a sump pump and a personal supply of sandbags if their property is known to be susceptible to this.
- Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage.
- Consider purchasing flood insurance.
- Clear snowpack away from window wells and your foundation.
- Help maintain your area’s storm drains by helping clear them of debris.
River Safety
Be aware of streams, canyons, and other areas susceptible to flooding. Don’t walk or drive through flooded areas with 6 inches of water or more. At 7 MPH of moving water (Steady Jog), 9-10 inches will knock an average person off their feet. At 4 MPH of moving water (walking pace), 3 feet of water will knock an average person off their feet and wash them downstream.
As spring approaches and warmer weather ensues, the snow and ice have started melting, feeding into the Ogden River and other waterways in Weber County. Every year there are concerns with the Ogden River, which begins to flow at a much higher rate due to the melting snow. In addition, the water can be unpredictable due to debris that will be flowing with the water. Please be aware of the river and take caution when traveling around it as it will be very cold and moving fast.
During this season, it is wise to wear a life vest if you need to be near the river for any reason. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention shows drowning statistics last gathered in August of 2022. These statistics indicate that there are 1.19 drowning deaths that occur in Utah per every 100,000 persons (https://www.cdc.gov/drowning/data/index.html). This is not always pertaining to rivers and swift water, as the statistics are gathered throughout the year, but we want to do our part this year by keeping Ogden safe. Please be aware of the swift water and use caution!
Report flooding or areas of concern by calling 801-629-8271