Flash flood advisories went into effect Friday in southwestern Nebraska as the National Weather Service says “5 to 10 inches of rain” have fallen in the area over the past 24 hours.
The advisories, which are extended to neighboring Kansas and Colorado counties, come as police in the region warn locals not to try to cross flooded roads.
“At 11:31 a.m. CDT, local law enforcement reported thunderstorms producing heavy rain in Palisade and Stratton, where rescue and evacuation measures were in place,” the National Weather Service said in a midday advisory. “5 to 10 inches of rain have fallen. Flash flooding is already happening.”
The NWS says a flood watch remains in effect through Saturday morning for “portions of Colorado, northwestern Kansas, and southwestern Nebraska, including the following counties, in Colorado: Kit Carson and Yuma. In northwestern Kansas : Cheyenne, Decatur, Graham, Norton, Rawlins , Sheridan, Sherman, and Thomas. In southwestern Nebraska: Dundy, Hitchcock, and Red Willow.”
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A truck stuck in floodwaters in Dundy County, Nebraska on May 26, 2023. (Dundy County Sheriff’s Office)
The Dundy County Sheriff’s Office, which is west of Stratton, shared an image of what it says is a “full-size pickup” completely submerged in a flooded road.
“Please do NOT attempt to cross standing water,” he said.
There have been no reports of deaths or injuries, but the NWS says that “the majority of flood deaths occur in vehicles.”
“Don’t try to cross bridges covered in water, depressions or low water crossings. Never try to cross a flowing stream, even a small one, on foot,” he said. “To escape the rising water, find another route over higher ground.
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“Motorists should not attempt to drive around barricades or drive cars through flooded areas,” the NWS adds. “Report observed flooding to local emergency services or law enforcement and request that they pass this information on to the National Weather Service when it can be done safely.”
The Benkelman Post and News Chronicle newspaper reported on their Facebook page that three boats were used to rescue five people and three dogs from homes in Stratton.
He also shared images of a railway bridge that he said is “partially collapsed” due to flooding in the area.
“It looks like the concrete footing at one end may have washed away,” he reported.
Flooding on a highway in Dundy County in southwestern Nebraska. (Dundy County Sheriff’s Office)
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The flooding has also closed numerous roads in the area.
“Anyone traveling to Enders, Wauneta or Trenton, please stop work and stay home,” the Dundy County Sheriff’s Office said. “DO NOT risk it, it’s not worth it. Emergency crews are already in short supply in the area. Stay home and stay safe.”
