Sandbag materials available for residents

ROSEBURG, Ore. — The City of Roseburg can provide sandbag materials on a limited basis to residents as Roseburg is at risk for heavy rain tonight through at least Friday, Dec. 19.

An atmospheric river is expected to arrive tonight — Thursday, Dec. 18 — and continue through Friday, Dec. 19 — bringing a second round of moderate to heavy rain, according to the National Weather Service. The atmospheric river is predicted to linger to the north of Roseburg before arriving in Douglas County and could bring 2 to 4 inches of rain, with the most rain expected in Curry County.

“Despite the slightly reduced rainfall expected, small streams and creeks are still likely to run high and could result in nuisance flooding, along with ponding of water on roadways during periods of heavy rain,” NWS reported in a hydrologic outlook released at 3:05 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17.

“Significant rises on mainstem rivers are expected, but the overall concern for widespread river flooding is low at this time due to antecedent dry conditions and minimal snowpack. We will be monitoring rivers in the Coquille and Umpqua Basins for flooding potential. The exact scenario for flooding remains uncertain,” the hydrologic outlook read.

Roseburg Public Works and Parks and Recreation staff set out sand and sandbags for city residents this week ahead of the predicted storm.

Sand and sandbags are available 24/7 at the Parks Maintenance Shop, 1802 N.W. Stewart Park Drive (near the Stewart Park locomotive) in Roseburg.

City residents must bring their own shovels, and fill and transport sandbags themselves.

The City provides sandbag materials on a limited first-come, first-served basis for residents to help protect against flooding.

City officials ask that no one takes sandbags for other purposes. Sandbags are available only for residents living in city limits.

To report a fallen tree blocking a sidewalk or street in city limits, call Roseburg Public Works at 541-492-6730.