Audience: HSEM/ESFs/Partners/State Agencies/Organizations/National Forest Service/Local Emergency Managers
Background: New Hampshire has been in a weather pattern for the past 6-8 weeks of rain and thunderstorms. This has caused the ground to be saturated more than normal. This pattern is expected to continue over the next few weeks, at least.
Situation: The National Weather Service from Gray, Me. is predicting an extended period of scattered showers beginning in the early morning hours Wednesday, thunderstorms and heavy localized rain over the next 5-7 days. There is the potential for heavy rain Wednesday afternoon through Wednesday evening and Thursday into the evening. While overall amounts may average between 1-1/2” there may be localized storms of up to 3”, especially in central NH and northward. Chance of showers will continue throughout the week until heavier rain is again expected on Saturday. This weather pattern is expected to continue through the next 2-3 weeks.
The heavy rains may produce flash flooding in streams and smaller rivers and, with the higher than normal ground saturation, mud and/or landslides may occur.
Towns are asked to monitor river gauges in their area, as well as areas and roads that may be susceptible to or have experienced flash floods, erosion and/or rock, mud or landslides. Check roads and walkways (including hiking trails) that have steep slopes, may be subject to erosion or have been identified as traditional “problem areas.” Identify alternate routes of travel, if that becomes necessary. Also, please remind your citizens and visitors not to drive through deep water or flooded streets. Campers, hikers and users of New Hampshire’s outdoor resources should also be advised of these possible conditions.
Should Towns, State agencies or other partners experience any issues or unmet needs as the result of this ongoing pattern, please contact Homeland Security and Emergency Management through the normal channels.
Christopher Pope, Director
NH Homeland Security and Emergency Management
NH HSEM
Field Services
603-271-2231
1-800-852-3792
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