With the weather forecast calling for extended and intense periods of rain this weekend and Monday, the City of Goshen is monitoring areas that may be affected by flooding.
The National Weather Service has issued a flood warning for areas in Elkhart County, including some within Goshen’s city limits. Heavy rain is expected to cause significant rises on area rivers beginning Saturday. Outlying areas along drainage paths, ditches and streams are likely the first to flood in the event of heavy rain.
Additionally, the Elkhart River is forecasted to crest at 9 feet, causing potentially moderate flooding, according to the Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service. To access the Hyrologic Prediction Service website, go to https://water.weather.gov/ahps2/hydrograph.php?wfo=iwx&gage=gshi3/. Areas in the flood plain such as Rogers Park, Shanklin Park and their surrounding properties may be inundated at this stage.
City staff will be monitoring the forecast and will be on call in case of an emergency. Police and fire crews will patrol areas prone to flooding throughout the weekend. Residents are encouraged also to contact the city if they see flooding in their neighboring areas.
The Goshen Street Department will have sand available outside their headquarters at 475 Steury Ave., including after hours. The sand and bags are free of charge, but you will need to bring your own shovel and fill your bags. Midwest Sandbag, a local company, has about 100,000 filled sandbags available for purchase. Their number is 320.0531.
In an emergency, dial 911. To report a clogged storm drain, call the Water and Sewer Department’s afterhours number at 238.0723. To report a lift station alarm going off, dial 238.6539. Continue following the forecast by the National Weather Service and follow on updates from the City on our website at goshenindiana.org and goshenindiana.org/flood-information or Facebook at facebook.com/CityOfGoshen.