Eddy County still at "moderate" risk for spring flooding

The National Weather Service issued a spring flood outlook for bodies of water in North Dakota on March 12, and Emergency Manager Jess Earle was all ears. She said that NWS reported that Eddy County is still a moderate flood risk for spring.

Conditions have been favorable for what they consider a gentle melt; however, some of that recently changed, with cooler temperatures, rain and snow this past week. The NWS’ mid range outlooks suggests a stretch of above normal temperatures towards the last week of March and early April. According to their predictions, much of the meltwater generated is still trapped on the countryside and is expected to show up in earnest during in the next week or two. NWS predicts that there is a 10-25% probability that the James River at Grace City will reach 13 ft. or higher, which is considered “moderate” flood stage. Historically, the last time the James River reached major flood stage was 2011, when it crested at 17.54 ft.

Commissioner Neal Rud noted that the James River is running now. He says that’s a good sign, as typically flooding has resulted from ice jams or other obstructions that prevent the river from flowing.

Road Superintendent Todd Weber told commissioners Monday that load restrictions were in effect on Eddy County roads as of Wednesday, March 11. The county follows the NDDOT, said Weber. Truck regulatory officials have been spotted on Eddy County roads, so truckers are advised to follow the restrictions as posted.

Leon Hoyt has been hired for the east district blade operator position. Hoyt, who will start April 15, has a commercial applicator license and a CDL, according to Weber.

In other county news, NDSU Extension has named finalists for the Eddy County agent position currently open. Interviews with Chandy Howard, Bailey March and Paige Anderson were postponed until COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.