Parts of northern Nevada remain under flood warning
February 12, 2017 - 10:34 pm
ELKO — A flood warning remained in effect for parts of Nevada including all of Elko County, northern Eureka and Lander counties and eastern Humboldt County.
The National Weather Service reported flooding along the Humboldt River and many other streams and low spots because of all the tributaries and feeders flooding into the river.
Snowmelts during the days and the recent rains added to the problem, and authorities said the situation might continue into Monday.
Elko County Sheriff’s officials said a significant rise in the Humboldt River led to flooding Saturday in Elko’s low-lying areas. The flooding caused numerous washouts of State Route 223 and other roads, according to sheriff’s officials.
There also were reports of road washouts in the Ryndon, Osino and Elburz areas.
Elko officials issued a voluntary evacuation notice for low-lying neighborhoods within several blocks of each side of the river.
The American Red Cross opened a shelter in the gym of Elko High School. Public safety personnel went through affected areas to check on the welfare of residents.
A state of emergency was declared Friday for Elko County by Gov. Brian Sandoval, Sheriff Jim Pitts and Elko County commissioners.
Authorities advised those in the Elko area stay away from the flooding river. They said people could be swept away if the river’s banks fail, and driving cars in standing water pushed water toward homes threatened with flooding.
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Flash-flood warning issued for Elko, rural northeastern Nevada