Hey, Watertown—this is your warning. The Black River is rising fast, and a Flood Warning is now in effect. With all the rain we’ve had lately, plus melting snow, the river is filling up way too quickly, and some areas could start seeing serious flooding in the next 24 to 48 hours.
If you live near the river or in a flood-prone area, now is the time to get ready. Don’t wait until the water is knocking on your door—take action now. Here’s what’s happening and what you need to do.
Why Is This Happening?
We’ve had a lot of rain, and warmer temperatures are melting snow up north. That’s sending tons of extra water straight into the Black River—and it has nowhere to go but up.
- Some areas are already seeing minor flooding, and the water is still rising.
- More rain or faster snowmelt could make things worse very quickly.
- Low-lying homes, roads, and basements are at serious risk of flooding.
This isn’t just a little overflow—this could turn into a big problem fast.
How This Could Affect You
Flooding isn’t just an inconvenience—it can mess up your entire day and cause serious damage. Here’s what you should be ready for:
Flooded Roads & Detours – Some streets could be underwater soon, making travel a nightmare. If you see water on the road, turn around—don’t drive through it! It only takes a few inches to stall your car and a foot to sweep it away.
Basement Flooding & Home Damage – If you live near the river, your basement could be next. Check your sump pump, move valuables off the floor, and get sandbags if you need them. A little water can cause thousands of dollars in damage—don’t wait to prepare.
Power Outages & Electrical Risks – Floodwaters can knock out power and create serious hazards. Charge your phone, grab flashlights and batteries, and stay away from standing water near electrical outlets or wires.
Possible Evacuations – If the flooding gets worse, you may need to leave quickly. Have a bag packed with essentials like medications, important documents, extra clothes, and anything else you’d need if you had to leave on short notice.
What You Can Do Right Now
Stay updated – Flooding can change fast, so keep checking weather alerts, local news, and emergency updates.
Protect your home – Move valuable items to higher ground, check your sump pump, and use sandbags if you’re in a high-risk area.
DO NOT walk or drive through floodwaters – It’s deeper and stronger than it looks. Even just six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet.
Be ready to leave if needed – Know where you’d go and how you’d get there if an evacuation is ordered.
The flooding could last for at least the next 24-48 hours, and if more rain comes, it could take even longer for the water to go down.
