PROJECT ALERT NOTICE (FL) flood measurements continue in southwest Florida

Date: Tue, 29 Aug 2017 16:19:33 EDT

Summary: USGS measures high flows during flooding in southwest Florida from heavy rainfall

Heavy rainfall of 17 and 18 inches from Aug 25 to Aug 28 is causing moderate to major flooding in southwest Florida from Naples to Bradenton. Many coastal streams in the area and the Manatee River and lower Peace River basins are experiencing moderate to near major flooding. Roads and homes were flooded in some areas, and one person drowned.

Since Aug 26, 46 high flow measurements have been made, and 11 new period of record peaks have been observed. Annual exceedance probability at some sites were in the 10 to 25% range. Six NWS flood forecast stations reached flood stage, and one is expected to reach major flood stage by tomorrow.

Today, 18 people are measuring flows at 15 stations. At the time of this report, five stations are above NWS flood stage, several peaks of record observations are expected, and at least one station will need a rating extension. Stages at two other stations are above the ratings and crews are heading there now. To date, no gages have been damaged.

Conditions will be monitored for the next few days to determine if additional measurements are needed.