Northern New Hampshire Under Flood Watch and Braces As Heavy Rain Looms

Photo byNational Weather Service

Gray, ME – The National Weather Service (NWS) in Gray, Maine, has issued a Flood Watch for northern New Hampshire, effective from Friday afternoon through Saturday morning. The alert comes as the region prepares for repeated rounds of heavy rainfall, which could lead to flash flooding and flooding of small streams.

Flood Watch Details

The Flood Watch includes the areas of Northern Coos, Southern Coos, Northern Grafton, and Northern Carroll counties. The NWS warns that the anticipated heavy rainfall could produce excessive runoff, increasing the risk of flash flooding. Although widespread flooding of major rivers is not expected, smaller streams and low-lying areas are particularly vulnerable.

The Flood Watch will remain in effect from late Friday afternoon through Saturday morning, a period during which the heaviest rain is expected. "Repeated rounds of heavy rainfall will bring that potential for excessive runoff," the NWS stated, urging residents to monitor local forecasts closely and be prepared for potential flood warnings.

Precautionary Measures and Safety

Residents in the affected areas should remain vigilant and take necessary precautions, especially those living in flood-prone areas. The NWS advises keeping a close eye on local weather reports and being prepared to take action if flood warnings are issued.

It's crucial for residents to avoid driving through flooded roadways and to have emergency plans in place should flooding occur in their area.

What to Expect

The primary concern during this Flood Watch period is flash flooding, which can happen rapidly, especially in areas with poor drainage. Small streams are also at risk of quickly rising and overflowing their banks. The NWS stresses that while the main rivers are not expected to experience widespread flooding, the localized risks are significant enough to warrant caution.