Concord, New Hampshire, and surrounding areas are facing the potential for significant flooding on Saturday as heavy rainfall continues to drench already saturated ground. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday for Sullivan, Merrimack, Cheshire, and Hillsborough counties, with flash flooding possible, especially where storm runoff overwhelms rivers and low-lying roads.
Areas at Risk for Flooding
Cities at risk include Manchester, Nashua, Concord, Keene, and Claremont. These areas may see creeks and storm drains overflow by mid-morning. The greatest flood risk lies in areas that received significant rainfall on Friday, amplifying the potential for runoff and flooding.
With the continued rain, there’s also a chance that Routes 3, 9, and I-89 could become flooded, causing disruptions to travel. Roads could quickly become impassable, and emergency responders are urging residents to stay alert for flash flood warnings, which may be issued with little notice.
Safety Tips for Residents
- Avoid Flooded Roads: Do not attempt to drive through flooded roads, even if the water appears shallow. Just a few inches of water can sweep a vehicle off the road.
- Monitor Flash Flood Warnings: Stay updated on weather alerts throughout the day. Flash floods can happen quickly, and you may need to act fast.
- Secure Your Home: Residents in Goffstown, Peterborough, Amherst, and Pelham should secure basements, clear drains, and avoid unnecessary travel until the threat passes.
- Stay Informed: Pay attention to National Weather Service updates and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
Conditions Could Worsen Later in the Day
This is the first major flood threat of June, and the situation could worsen if additional bands of rain develop throughout the afternoon. The risk of flash flooding remains high, so stay alert and be prepared to act quickly.
The Flood Watch in Concord and surrounding areas remains in effect until Saturday evening, and flash flooding is a serious concern for roads, streams, and low-lying areas. Stay updated on weather alerts, avoid driving through flooded areas, and secure your property to ensure safety as conditions develop.
