Flood warning called in Merced. When fast-rising Bear Creek is expected to hit 25 feet

UPDATE: Merced’s Bear Creek overflows, homes in danger of flooding, mandatory evacuations issued

Bear Creek was expected to reach flood stage Monday as an atmospheric river settles over the Merced region dumping heavy rain, according to the National Weather Service.

With an eye on the expected flooding of the major waterway through the city, Merced issued an emergency declaration as it prepares for the potential impact of the upcoming storm. It follows state and county declarations.

About .39 inches of rain was recorded at Merced Regional Airport since Sunday morning, according to meteorologist Dan Harty at the region weather service office in Hanford.

“We do have this major event today, looks like the bulk of it is going to occur today,” Harty said Monday.

Merced can expect to see temperatures in the upper 50s Monday and Tuesday with Tuesday seeing about a 90% chance of rain with possible isolated thunderstorms throughout the day. On Wednesday, the area is expected to see about a 30% chance of rain with temperatures in the low 50s before warming up slightly on Thursday and Friday with temperatures about 60 degrees.

According to Harty, dry weather is expected Thursday before a 20% chance of rain Friday and 70% chance of rain on Saturday. Harty said the weather service has received reports of nuisance flooding in the area with some isolated reports of rocks in foothill roadways.

Harty said flooding is being reported in the Mariposa area with rocks and debris in roadways as well as concern in burn scar areas.

According to Harty, the National Weather Service advises against travel even in the San Joaquin Valley as flooding and hydroplaning could be a factor in low-lying areas with poor drainage.

Bear Creek rising

Merced County’s Bear Creek was at a depth of 18.99 feet as of 4:45 p.m. Monday. The creek is considered to be at flood stage when it rises to 23 feet. According to Harty, Bear Creek is expected to rise above floods stage in the area including McKee Road on Monday evening, peaking at about 25 feet just after midnight and into Tuesday morning. The historic high is 24 feet recorded in 2006.

“We do have a flood warning in effect for that area,” said Harty.

Merced City Manager Stephanie Dietz said in a news release that the city’s state of emergency proclamation “authorizes the City to mobilize and take appropriate measures to support emergency response operations to ensure the safety of residents and businesses within the city’s jurisdiction.”

Merced Fire Chief Derek Parker said community leaders ask residents to avoid flooded roads, stay out of the creek waters and detention basins, and follow all emergency signage. “The focus of emergency responders should remain on prevention during these critical hours.”

Mariposa County shelter-in-place order

In Mariposa County, a shelter-in-place order was posted due to flood waters and debris for these areas:

• Carter Road
• Jerserydale Road from Wild Dove Road to Hites Cove Road
• Anton Road

The sheriff’s office advised residents and travelers to stay indoors and not attempt to cross any standing or moving water.

This story was originally published January 9, 2023 at 11:20 AM.