Benton County, OR. — Benton County Emergency Management is sharing updated information from the National Weather Service (NWS) as another storm system is forecast to impact the county later this week, while recovery continues from last night’s severe weather.
County officials report multiple power outages caused by fallen trees and downed powerlines. As of Wednesday, approximately 2,400 Pacific Power customers and nearly 800 Consumers Power customers were without electricity. Power outages at key intersections have also led to significant traffic congestion across the county.
According to the latest NWS briefing, forecasters have high confidence that Benton County will experience another round of strong winds, heavy rainfall, and rising river levels. Sustained winds around 20 mph with gusts up to 40 mph are expected. Heavy rainfall is forecast between Thursday and Friday, with the heaviest precipitation anticipated Thursday between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m.
Rivers, smaller streams, and tributaries in and near Benton County are forecast to approach or reach action or flood stages. Officials warn that smaller creeks and tributaries could flood rapidly, and river forecasts may change over the next 48 hours as conditions evolve.
“Smaller streams and tributaries around the county are likely to flood,” said Benton County Emergency Manager Bryan Lee. “Now is the time to prepare, keep an eye on river levels, and have a plan — especially for those living near rivers, creeks, or low-lying areas.”
Residents are encouraged to prepare now for potential flooding and power outages, monitor official river forecasts from the National Weather Service, avoid driving on flooded roads, and sign up for local emergency alerts. Updates are available at https://flashalert.net/id/BentonCoGov, and live river forecasts can be viewed at https://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/rfc/.
The Benton County Sheriff’s Office and Benton County Public Works are actively monitoring conditions, coordinating response plans, and preparing crews and equipment to address potential flooding and road impacts as needed.
Benton County officials said updates will continue to be shared as weather conditions change.
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