Medford, OR – Residents of Jackson and Josephine counties in southern Oregon are assessing the damage after a powerful weekend storm caused significant flooding along the Rogue River. As the waters continue to rise, local authorities are urging the public to exercise caution and avoid navigating the swollen river, citing dangerous conditions.
Rural Metro Fire’s water rescue team, along with the Josephine County Sheriff’s Office Marine Division, are advising against boating on the Rogue River due to the high water levels and swift currents. The floodwaters have created hazardous conditions in many areas, prompting fears of potential damage to homes and property.
“I’m a little worried about people getting their houses flooded… a lot of water can do a lot of damage,” said Ruth Price, a Grants Pass resident who voiced concerns about the impact of the flooding.
Some community members have ventured out to witness the flood’s aftermath, doing so from safer vantage points such as the Rogue River Greenway and Depot Street Bridge in Rogue River. Gold Hill resident Stephen Wiley shared his experience of walking along the greenway, where the river’s rising waters had reached the trail, leaving a slick, muddy layer in some spots. “The river got all the way up into the trail in a couple different places, and there was a layer of mud there,” he explained. “I almost fell down, so it was really slick.”
In response to the flooding, Jackson County Emergency Management has set up sandbag stations in Talent, Central Point, and Jacksonville for residents looking to protect their homes from further water damage. Local officials are also monitoring the situation closely, though Josephine County Emergency Management has yet to issue an official update on its flood response efforts.
As floodwaters continue to affect the region, residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Local authorities remain on high alert, and the public is encouraged to avoid affected areas unless absolutely necessary.