PROGRAMS AND PLANS--Local Flood-Warning Systems

In Response Refer To:
WGS-Mail Stop 415                        February 20, 1990



OFFICE OF SURFACE WATER TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM NO. 90.09

Subject:   PROGRAMS AND PLANS--Local Flood-Warning Systems

Attached are tables summarizing Water Resources Division
involvement in local flood-warning systems nationwide.   The
Division is operating nearly 700 stream or precipitation gages
that have a primary purpose of flood warning.  This work is done
in support of many local cooperators and other Federal agencies.

In addition to the gages that have a primary purpose of flood
warning, many other gages have telemetry and are used for flood
information, forecasts, or operation.  For example the flood-
forecast network, those stations relied upon by the National
Weather Service, consists of about 3,000 streamgages.  Other gages
operated in support of agencies such as the Corps of Engineers and
the Bureau of Reclamation furnish information needed for project
operation during times of flood.

The interagency Working Group on Flood Warning and Preparedness
Plans has recently published a brochure on local flood-warning
systems.  A copy is attached for your information.  The Working
Group, which was formed by the Subcommittee on Hydrology of the
Interagency Advisory Committee on Water Data, intended the
brochure for citizens and local agencies that are considering
flood-warning systems and preparedness plans to provide protection
from flooding.

Additional copies of the brochure are available from the Office of
Water Data Coordination, U. S. Geological Survey, 417 National
Center, Reston, Virginia 22092.




                                   Ernest F. Hubbard
                                   Assistant Chief, Office
                                     of Surface Water

Attachments

WRD Distribution:  A, B, S, FO

Note:  Copies of the attachments may be obtained from the Office of Surface
Water.