NWS issues flood advisory for local streams, rivers; minor flooding seen throughout the Borough

On Tuesday, the National Weather Service issued a flood advisory to several streams and rivers in the Matanuska Valley and Susitna Valley, including the Little Susitna River, Talkeetna River, Kashwitna River, Montana Creek, Susitna River and Matanuska River. The advisory is expected to remain in effect until Saturday morning.

The advisory states that small stream flooding caused by the excessive rains the area has been experiencing is to be expected. Residents and tourists should expect minor flooding in low-lying and areas with poor drainage.

As of Wednesday morning, NWS reports that Willow Creek was over 10.45 feet near the Parks Highway, and had receded to 9.93 feet. Flood stage is at 10 feet. For Willow Creek upstream of Parks Highway was 5.49 feet, hovering near flood stage, which is 5.9 feet.

Videos and pictures of the swollen creek had been posted to social media as residents comment about making plans in case they need to evacuate with others offering space if needed.

Meanwhile, the Little Su has also experienced some minor flooding as it hit bankfull levels near riverfront property just east of the Parks Highway. As of Wednesday afternoon, the NWS observed the Little Su at just over 9.3 feet; 11 feet is flood stage for the river. Current forecast expect water levels to rise to 10 feet Wednesday night before dropping somewhat heading into Thursday.

The Houston Fire Department noted that while the riverbanks are starting to overflow, to date there has only been 1 home impacted by the rising waters. Ponding on some roadways within the Enchanted Forest subdivision may also occur and residents are urged to use caution when driving vehicles and ATVs.

For Little Su below Hatcher Pass Bridge, the river gauge on Tuesday evening was 6.23 feet and flood Stage is 6.5 feet. Moose Creek near Palmer, had risen to 16.75 feet; flood Stage is 17.5 feet.

The Talkeetna River at the Railroad Bridge peaked at 12 feet, still below the flood stage of 13 feet, while upstream the river was at 9 feet and the flood stage for that area is 12 feet.

In response, the Mat-Su Borough has posted on their Facebook page an update advising residents in affected areas to have an evacuation plan in case people need to leave with little or no notice. Guidance recommends to have any important documents, medications, and provisions for animals if people need to leave their homes. The Borough will continue to monitor and update their Facebook pages throughout the rest of the week.

All are reminded to check weather and river conditions before heading out to recreate.

The NWS forecasts more rainfall in the amounts of 1-2 inches are possible as rain will continue throughout the week and temperatures remain in the mid-50s.

Residents with questions related to flooding in the Mat-Su Borough should call (907) 861-7900 and visit the Matanuska Borough Facebook page for updates. For flood safety information, visit http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood