Photo by George Kunke - Motorists and citizens were impacted by flooding caused by heavy rains and 70-mph winds in north Pacific County last Thursday. King tides also caused problems in some areas. Many streets were barricaded by the South Bend Police Dep
SOUTH BEND - Too much rainfall, nasty winds, and high tides, created havoc as flooding moved into South Bend in several areas with some residents needing to be evacuated last Thursday. The South Bend Police Department and city crews worked diligently to sustain normalcy with the impacted flooded areas.
"The flooding was bad in several places throughout the city," South Bend Police Chief Lucas Stigall told the Herald. "The Central Street area and the east-end flats saw the brunt of it."
Some families were evacuated and relocated to the Willapa Harbor Community Center at 916 W. First street.
"A few families felt it was unsafe for them to stay in their residences," Stigall said. "The city was able to secure the chamber center for an evacuation point where people could stay. The Pacific County EOC (Emergency Operations Center) provided essential items for the families who chose to stay at the chamber until other arrangements were made for them."
The SBPD was swamped with a wide-range of phone calls and some thoughtless people were out joyriding and making overfilled water areas worse.
Chief Stigall said the SBPD "responded to numerous complaints of people driving through the water, which was causing a wake. It was difficult at times trying to keep up with the complaints as we were going back and forth from one end of town to another trying to chase them down, while at the same time responding to residents who were trapped in their homes. We were also assisting people by trying to divert them around the water and guide them to a safe path to their destination. If people were out 'joy-riding' they were contacted and advised to go home because they could potentially be causing more damage."
Chief Stigall paid thanks to all those who helped make the flooding crisis a better situation.
"I would like to thank all of our partner agencies who helped us and offered assistance throughout the duration of the flooding," Stigall said. "I would also like to give a big thanks to our South Bend City Staff, from our public works crew to the office staff, as well as my officers. The entire city staff was working diligently to help with the situation."
Chief Stigall gave a stern warning to those being careless while driving during flood situations.
"I would also like to remind people, 'Do not drive around barricades.' You will be cited!" Stigall said. "I know it is tempting for people to want to go check things out, but please, do not drive through the water. It is not only dangerous, but it also can cause extensive damage to people's homes, which are near flooded. Speeding through the water, causing a wake into people's homes could result in criminal charges."