Northern Plains Flooding

Losses, 2024 dollars

$7.3 billion

Losses at the time

$3.7 billion

Deaths

11

The losses and deaths are NCEI’s, counting everything the disaster did. The episodes below are only what the Weather Service filed in its Storm Events record, which counts damage differently and often not at all, so the two never add up and are shown apart.

• Flash Flood in California, February 3, 19971 death · 1 eventLevee Breached along Arroyo Mocha (a dry Creek) and caused damage to roads and property
• Flood in Ohio, February 4 to 5, 1997$75,000 · 1 eventThe Huron River at Milan exceeded its flood stage of 14 feet and crested at 16.6 feet at 1150 EST on 02/05/97. Flooding occurred in the lagoon communities from Milan to near Huron, with some cottages and homes surrounded by water.
• Flash Flood in New York, February 5, 1997$20,000 · 1 eventAn ice jam on the Cazenovia Creek was already in place. Runoff from the previous night's rainfall rose behind the jam causing flooding along the creek. A few roads were closed because of the flood waters. Basement flooding was also reported.
• Flooding in Texas, February 12 to 28, 19977 eventsHeavy rain caused the Sabine River to rise well above flood stage at numerous points. Rainfall runoff and reservoir discharge from Lake Fork and Lake Tawakoni all contributed to the rapid rise of the river.
• Heavy Rain in Texas, February 12 to 13, 199737 eventsAn upper level storm moved from the southwestern U.S. across Texas on the 12th. Rich moisture was pulled from the Gulf of Mexico into North Texas ahead of the storm.
• Flash Flood in Texas, February 12, 1997$75,000 · 1 eventSeveral roads were closed due to high water and a bridge was washed out by flood waters.
• Flooding in Iowa, February 18 to 24, 1997$750,000 · 37 eventsIowa was under a deep snow pack with water equivalents ranging from around an inch over the south third of the state to around 5 inches across the north. A strong warming trend took place as cold air over Iowa was replaces with Chinook air from the Rockies.
• Flooding in Nebraska, February 18 to 28, 1997$620,000 · 17 eventsMild temperatures melted snowcover in a short time period allowing for a sudden runoff into streams and rivers which were still intact with thicker than normal ice. The runoff into the streams and rivers was sufficient to break up the ice.
• Flood in Wisconsin, February 18 to 23, 1997$15,000 · 1 eventFlooding occurred along the Pecatonica River in and near Darlington (Lafayette county) due to the combination of 1 inch rains, rapidly melting snow, and a nearly frozen ground. Ice action and minor ice jamming complicated and enhanced the flooding in some spots.
• Flooding in Iowa, February 18 to 28, 19978 eventsMild temperatures melted snowcover in a short period allowing for a sudden runoff into streams and rivers which were still intact with thicker than normal ice. The runoff into the streams and rivers was sufficient to break up the ice.
• Flood in Wisconsin, February 18 to 28, 1997$20,000 · 1 eventFlooding took place along the Pecatonica River in and near Martintown (Green county) due to the combination of .50 to 1.00 inch of rain, rapidly melting snow, and a nearly frozen ground. Ice action and minor ice jamming complicated and enhanced some of the flooding.
• Flash Flood in Iowa, February 19, 19971 death · $30,000 · 1 eventSignificant ice jams took place along the Raccoon River along its lower reaches. One occurred where the river flows through a gravel pit on the west side of the Des Moines area. A woman was driving across a flood plain road when one of the ice jams suddenly broke.
• Heavy Rain in Texas, February 19 to 21, 199748 eventsAnother heavy rain event began to develop across northern Texas during the early morning hours of the 19th as a strong upper level storm system approached the area from the southwestern United States. This event unfolded in a similar fashion to the heavy rain event of the 12th.
• Flooding in Nebraska, February 19 to 22, 1997$750,000 · 2 eventsSeveral days of temperatures above freezing caused snow to melt and ice to break up on Ponca Creek and Keya Paha River in northcentral Nebraska. The extra runoff from snowmelt combined with ice jams along the waterways caused flooding from Bristow east to the Boyd County line.
• Flash Flood in Texas, February 19, 19971 death · 1 eventA car was washed off Highway 114 by flood waters. Three people were in the car when it went off the road. A mother and one of her children were rescued but the other young child was drown by the flood current.
• Flash Flood in Iowa, February 19 to 20, 1997$100,000 · 1 eventIce jams continued along the lower reaches of the Raccoon River. A major ice jam, 12 miles in length, began at the 63rd street bridge in West Des Moines. The river went sligtly above flood stage there before it broke free.
• Flash Flood in Texas, February 19 to 20, 19972 injured · $50,000 · 1 eventWidespread flash flooding developed along Johnson's Draw and the Devil's River in response to very heavy rainfall with accumulations of up to 5 inches. Flash flooding began in the city of Del Rio shortly after midnight.
• Flash Flood in Texas, February 20, 1997$150,000 · 1 eventHigh water was reported over numerous roads throughout the county with road closures resulting. Several bridges were washed out by flood waters.
• Flood in Texas, February 20, 1997$50,000 · 1 eventWidespread showers and thunderstorms developed in the early morning hours of the 20th as a potent upper level storm system approached the Concho Valley, then spread over the rest of west central Texas during the afternoon.
• Flash Flood in Texas, February 20, 1997$34,000 · 1 eventNumerous roads throughout the county were flooded and several had portions washed out.
• Flood in Texas, February 20 to 21, 1997$25,000 · 1 eventRiver flooding occurred on the Llano River at Mason, which crested at 19.08 feet at 11:00 am on the 20th, 13.08 feet above bank full.
• Flash Flood in Texas, February 20, 1997$30,000 · 1 eventRainfall of up to 5 inches in western Gillespie County early in the morning of the 20th produced widespread flash flooding over mainly the northern part of the county.
• Flash Flood in Texas, February 20, 1997$2.3 million · 1 eventPecan Creek was out of its banks and all low-lying areas throughout the county remained flooded. Two bridges, one over the Lampasas River and the other over Cowhouse Creek, were washed out. One home sustained severe damage from flooding and several others received minor damage.
• Flash Flood in Texas, February 20, 1997$75,000 · 1 eventA bridge was washed out by flood waters.
• Flash Flood in Texas, February 20, 1997$85,000 · 1 eventRainfall of nearly 5 inches in the early morning hours over northern Kerr County produced widespread flash flooding across essentially all of the county. Many roads were still under repair from the flooding two days after the event.
• Flood in Texas, February 20 to 21, 1997$50,000 · 1 eventTwo days of heavy rain caused the level of Lake Worth to rise and flood a local business.
• Flood in Texas, February 20 to 21, 19972 deaths · $2.0 million · 1 eventRainfall of up to 8 inches just west of Llano County early in the morning of February 20th produced a very rapid rise and severe flooding along the Llano River.
• Flash Flood in Texas, February 20, 1997$70,000 · 1 eventRainfall of up to 8 inches upstream along the Llano River early in the morning of February 20th produced severe flash flooding along the river across Llano County. The greatest amount of damage was due to the flooding of the Llano River itself, as noted below.
• Flash Flood in Texas, February 20, 1997$15,000 · 1 eventRainfall of up to 3 inches in less than an hour produced flash flooding over much of the county. A woman and her 12-year old granddaughter were trapped near Comfort when their van stalled in a flooded low water crossing.
• Flood in Texas, February 20 to 21, 1997$100,000 · 1 eventRiver flooding occurred on the San Saba River at San Saba from mid afternoon of the 20th until 6:00 a.m. on the 21st. Flood stage is 24 feet. The crest was 28.65 feet around 8:00 a.m. on the 20th.
• Flash Flooding in Illinois, February 20 to 24, 1997$1.1 million · 13 eventsHeavy rains fell over the area while soils were still partially frozen. These widespread two-to-four inch rains came as area rivers and streams were running high from snowmelt from the previous week.
• Flash Flood in Texas, February 20, 1997$2.0 million · 1 eventSix to eight inches of rain fell across the area causing numerous roads to flood. Sixty percent of the 485 miles of gravel roads across the county were washed away by flood waters.
• Flash Flooding in Iowa, February 20 to 22, 199720 eventsHeavy rains fell over the area while soils were still partially frozen. These one-to-three inch rains came as area rivers and streams were running high from snowmelt during the previous week.
• Flash Flood in Texas, February 20, 1997$20,000 · 1 eventNumerous roads were closed throughout the county due to flooding. A car was emerged in water with one rescue necessary. Several residences received minor flooding. A local cooperative observer measured three inches of rain in the area.
• Flooding in Illinois, February 20 to 22, 19971 death · 13 eventsHeavy rainfall occurred during the period from February 20th to early February 22nd. Between 3 to 4 inches of rain fell over parts of Northern Illinois.
• Flash Flood in Oklahoma, February 20, 1997$30,000 · 1 eventA cluster of severe thunderstorms moved north northeast across extreme eastern Oklahoma during the evening of February 20th and produced considerable wind damage along their path. 1 brief tornado also occurred in Le Flore County.
• Flooding in Missouri, February 21 to 28, 199713 eventsHeavy rainfall totals of 2 to 3 inches were observed over most of Northwest and West Central Missouri on February 20th into the 21st. As much as 4 to 6 inches of rain fell between Sedalia and Otterville, and 4.5 inches of rain was recorded at Rich Hill in Southern Bates County.
• Flooding in Michigan, February 21 to 28, 199710 eventsA spring like storm system developed over Western Texas on the 20th and tracked into Southern Michigan on Friday, the 21st.
• Flash Flood in Michigan, February 21, 1997$50,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Michigan, February 21, 1997$50,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Michigan, February 21, 1997$50,000 · 1 event
• Flooding in Kansas, February 21 to 22, 19979 eventsRainfall totaling 1 to 2 inches on the 20th and 21st, with locally higher amounts beween 3 and 4 inches, resulted in lowland flooding along several rivers and major streams.
• Flooding in Illinois, February 21 to 28, 199710 eventsA strong storm system produced very heavy rainfall along the Illinois River basin on the 20th and 21st. The area received 2 day totals of 3 to 4.5 inches of rain, which fell on frozen grounds.
• Flood in Michigan, February 21 to 24, 1997$25,000 · 1 eventThe Cass River at Vassar went above its 14.0 foot flood stage at 9 pm on the 21st. The river crested at 18.2 feet at 6 pmEST on the 22d, and fell back below flood stage at 6 am EST onthe 24th.
• Flood in Texas, February 21 to 22, 1997$100,000 · 1 eventRunoff from several days of heavy rain resulted in flooding of the Brazos River and Lake Granbury. The evacuations of 20 homes ensued as high water threatened several communities. Water up to three feet deep was reported in a few homes.
• Flooding in Indiana, February 22 to 28, 199711 eventsHeavy rainfall averaging 2 to 4 inches over the north third of Indiana on the 20th and 21st resulted in lowland flooding in the Eel, Wabash and Tippecanoe River basins.
• Flooding in Missouri, February 24 to 28, 1997$25,000 · 2 eventsHeavy rainfall during the latter half of February across the upper Plains sent the Mississippi River rising above flood stage by month's end. At Cape Girardeau, the river rose above the 32 foot flood stage on the 24th, and was near 37 feet by the end of the month.
• Flood in Louisiana, February 25, 1997$20,000 · 1 eventWithin a week of each other, two storms produced widespread rains of eight to ten inches across the Alexandria area. Flooding of some urban areas occurred during the week of February 24th to 28th. Low drainage spots such as Horseshoe Drive were the worst hit areas.
• Flooding in Missouri, February 26 to 28, 19975 eventsRainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches resulted in a reoccurence of minor flooding over West Central Missouri.South Grand RiverUrich, MOFlood Stage 24 ftAbove Flood Stage 2/26 to 2/28Crest 26.1 ft on 2/27Big Creek Blairstown, MOFlood Stage 20 ftAbove Flood Stage 2/26 to 2/28Crest…
• Heavy Rain in Missouri, February 26 to 27, 19971 death · 1 eventA steady rain from about noon through midnight dropped from 2 to 4 inches of rain across St. Francois County. While no widespread flooding was reported, there was flooding in some of the usual low-lying areas, such as low water crossings.
• Flash Flood in Missouri, February 26, 19971 death · 1 injured · 1 eventA two year old girl drowned after the pickup truck driven by her mother was swept off a rain-swollen low water crossing on County Road 1550, six miles east of Willow Springs. Her mother was rescued.
• Flash Flood in Ohio, February 27, 1997$50,000 · 1 eventHeavy thunderstorm rain caused flooding of streets, basements and low lying areas. Some streets were covered by up to two feet of water and many were closed.
• Flooding in Indiana, February 27 to 28, 199723 eventsHeavy rains of two to three inches on the 26th and 27th, combined with saturated soils and existing high water levels to produce widespread river flooding across the north third of Indiana again.
• Flood in Ohio, February 27, 1997$50,000 · 1 eventThe Chagrin River at Willoughby exceeded its flood stage of 11 feet and crested at 14.0 feet at 0730 EST on 02/27/97. Flooding occurred along the northern section of Trailard, Milan Drive and Chagrin Drive and Daniels Park was closed due to high water.
• Flash Flood in Pennsylvania, February 27, 1997$75,000 · 1 eventHeavy thunderstorm rain caused flooding of streets, streams and low lying areas. Dozens of roads were closed. Two underpasses flooded in Saegertown, with water over the roof of a car stuck in one of them.
• Flash Flood in Ohio, February 27, 1997$50,000 · 1 eventHeavy thunderstorm rain caused flooding of basements and low lying areas. A local industrial firm sustained $25,000 damage.
• Flood in Ohio, February 27 to 28, 1997$50,000 · 1 eventThe Blanchard River at Findlay exceeded its flood stage of 11 feet and crested at 13.4 feet at 0543 EST on 02/28/97. Flooding occurred at the sewage plant, the downtown area, and residences near Eagle Rd. and Lyle Creeks.
• Flooding in Georgia, February 27 to 28, 199715 eventsSteady rain with scattered heavy showers and thunderstorms produced rain amounts over 4 inches from Thursday evening to Friday night inparts of northwest and north Georgia. Doppler radar precipitation totals indicated two separate maxima.
• Flooding in Ohio, February 27 to 28, 19975 eventsPersistent heavy rainfall across West-Central Ohio brought area rivers, including the Blanchard, Maumee, Auglaize, and St. Mary's rivers, out of their banks.
• Flood in Ohio, February 27 to 28, 1997$25,000 · 1 eventThe Portage River in Pemberville overflowed its banks, causing flooding of streets, basements, the parking lot for downtown businesses and low lying areas. The Freedom Township Hall and maintenance building were also flooded.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, February 28, 1997$50,000 · 1 eventPersistent strong thunderstorms produced 2 to 3 inches of rain in a couple of hours. The city of Murray was especially hard hit, where motorists became stranded in water as much as 3 feet deep. An elderly woman and her son were rescued from their flooded house.
• Flooding in Indiana, March 1 to 6, 19976 eventsThis is a continuation of flooding from late February as a result of heavy rains and thunderstorms that occurred February 20th and 21st as well as the 26th and 27th.
• Flooding in Ohio, March 1 to 2, 19975 eventsHeavy rainfall brought area rivers, including the Blanchard, Maumee, Auglaize, and St. Mary's rivers, out of their banks in late February. The crests occurred in late February but flooding continued into early March.
• Flooding in Illinois, March 1 to 6, 199710 eventsFlooding continued along the Illinois River in March with the river cresting at Henry on the 2nd, Peoria on the 3rd, Havana on the 4th, and at Beardstown on the 6th. It took over two weeks to a month for the river to fall below flood stage.
• Flooding in Missouri, March 1 to 22, 19971 death · $150,000 · 5 eventsA death occurred when an 18-year-old girl lost control of her vehicle and went off a levee which bound backwater from the Mississippi River. This death occurred around 4:30 A.M. about 9 miles east of Portageville, Missouri.
• Flooding in Illinois, March 1 to 25, 1997$20,000 · 3 eventsThe Big Muddy River crested about 10 feet above flood stage at Murphysboro on March 4. Extensive flooding of low farmland and fields occurred, but few homes were affected.
• Flooding in Illinois, March 1 to 22, 1997$20,000 · 3 eventsThe Mississippi River remained above flood stage from late February well into March at Thebes. The river crested about 6 feet above flood stage at Thebes on March 3, then a couple feet over flood stage on the 17th.
• Flooding in Tennessee, March 1 to 11, 19973 deaths · $20 million · 17 eventsExcessive rainfall during the first few days of March along with rivers that were already high caused prolonged flooding along the Mississippi and Tennessee rivers as well as their tributaries. Along the Mississippi, the river reached levels that had not been seen since 1937.
• Flooding in Kentucky, March 1 to 7, 19971 death · $8.4 million · 3 eventsRecord flooding occurred all along the Licking River basin as 24 hour rainfall amounts beginning early March 1 totaled from 6 to 10 inches. Stoner Creek at Paris crested at a record 30.0 feet (flood stage is 18 feet) at 5 am est on March 2.
• Flooding in Arkansas, March 1 to 10, 1997$1.8 million · 4 eventsExcessive rainfall along with previous high levels on the Mississippi river produced flooding in portions of eastern Arkansas. In Poinsett county, 18 bridges were washed out. Close to 100 homes were flooded in the area.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$1.0 million · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$750,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$200,000 · 1 eventThe Mountain Parkway at Clay City had to be closed. Other roads, and some houses were affected by high water. A bridge was washed out.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$1.0 million · 1 event
• Flood in Kentucky, March 1 to 3, 19971 death · $85 million · 1 eventNumerous strong thunderstorms training along a stalled out warm front triggered a record 24 hour rainfall for the county. The combination of flooding and/or flash flooding from the record rainfall resulted in an estimated 50,000 homes effected by flooding.
• Flash Flood in Ohio, March 1, 1997$2.0 million · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$1.0 million · 1 eventParked cars were washed away, numerous roads were flooded, and a bridge was washed out.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$350,000 · 1 eventRoads were flooded and some people had to be evacuated.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$230,000 · 1 eventNumerous roads were flooded and some people had to be evacuated.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$150,000 · 1 eventNumerous roads were closed across the county. Some people in the Crockett area had to be evacuated.
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 1, 1997$2.0 million · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$1.1 million · 1 eventNumerous bridges were washed out. A nursing home in Sandy Hook had to be evacuated.
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 1, 1997$700,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1 to 2, 19971 death · $500,000 · 1 eventEstimated rainfall from 5 to over 12 inches across the county in less than 36 hours caused area creeks and streams to rise out of their banks. Numerous roads were covered by water causing several vehicles to stall in the water. Some people had to be rescued from their vehicles.
• Flash Flood in Ohio, March 1 to 2, 1997$3.0 million · 1 eventEstimated rainfall of 5 to 10 inches across the county in less than 36 hours caused numerous creeks and streams to rise out of their banks. Numerous roads were covered and at least 2000 people were evacuated as water rose into many area homes. Several cars were washed away.
• Flash Flood in Tennessee, March 1, 1997$50,000 · 1 eventFlash flooding was occurring across the county. Areas that had the most trouble were Lower Station Camp Road in Cottontown along Highway 25, also along E.B. Wade Road and finally along Butler Mill Road, which is about 10 miles north of Gallatin.
• Flash Flood in Ohio, March 1 to 2, 19972 deaths · $8.0 million · 1 eventEstimated rainfall of 6 to 12 inches across the county in less than 36 hours caused area creeks and streams to rise out of their banks. Numerous roads were closed due to high water. Several rescue operations occurred.
• Flood in Ohio, March 1 to 2, 1997$1.0 million · 1 eventPersistent heavy rainfall of over 10 inches in less than 36 hours caused the Ohio Brush Creek to rise rapidly out its banks. The river crested at 31.0 feet which is the second highest stage on record and the highest since 1962.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$200,000 · 1 eventSeveral roads were flooded.
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 1, 1997$3.5 million · 1 event
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 1, 1997$1.5 million · 1 event
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 1, 19972 injured · $200,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 1, 1997$300,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 1, 1997$200,000 · 1 event
• Flooding in Illinois, March 1 to 31, 1997$2.5 million · 6 eventsA massive flood crest moved down the Ohio River during the first few weeks of March. Around 10 inches of rain fell in the middle Ohio River Valley from the Louisville area to Cincinnati within a one to three day period.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1 to 2, 1997$1.0 million · 1 eventEstimated rainfall from 8 to over 12 inches across the county in less than 36 hours caused numerous creeks and streams to rise out of their banks. Many roads were closed due to high water and two mobile homes were washed away. Much of Milford was under water for several hours.
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 1, 1997$500,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1 to 2, 1997$10 million · 1 eventEstimated rainfall of 6 to 12 inches across the county in less than 36 hours caused numerous creeks and streams to rise out of their banks. Many roads across the county were covered and some were even washed out. Several evacuations occurred across the county.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1 to 2, 1997$1.0 million · 1 eventEstimated rainfall from 6 to 12 inches across the county in less than 36 hours caused water to rise across most county roads.
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 1, 1997$500,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 1, 1997$50,000 · 1 event
• Flooding in Kentucky, March 1 to 3, 1997$2.5 million · 9 eventsRecord 24 hour rainfall from early March 1 through early March 2 at most spots on the order of 6 to 12 inches caused widepread flooding with numerous roads water covered and closed and hundreds of rescues from cars trapped in water and people trapped in flooded homes.
• Flash Flood in Ohio, March 1, 1997$500,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$250,000 · 1 eventThis was the second round of intense rainfall across Hopkins County. The first round during the previous evening caused no problems, but these storms brought 24-hour rainfall totals to near 5 inches. More than 40 people were evacuated from their homes.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$20,000 · 1 eventAlthough not as hard hit as counties to the east, Fulton County experienced significant flooding of creeks and roads. Kentucky Routes 925, 1129, 94, and 1354 were closed in spots for days.
• Flash Flood in Ohio, March 1 to 2, 19971 death · $2.0 million · 1 eventEstimated rainfall as high as 12 inches in less than 36 hours over the southeastern part of the county caused many creeks and streams to overflow their banks. The waters rose into several homes causing evacuations to occur.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1 to 2, 19972 deaths · $2.1 million · 1 eventEstimated rainfall of 10 to 15 inches across the county in less than 36 hours caused many area creeks and streams to rise out of their banks. Numerous roads were flooded across the entire county.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$500,000 · 1 eventEstimated rainfall of 6 to 8 inches across the county in less than 36 hours caused area creeks and streams to rise out of their banks. Numerous roads were flooded.
• Flood in Kentucky, March 1 to 6, 19975 deaths · $35 million · 1 eventPersistent heavy rainfall occurred for nearly 36 hours on the 1st and 2nd. Up to 12 inches of rain fell across parts of Northern Kentucky bringing the Licking river at Falmouth out of it's banks.
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 1, 1997$100,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 1, 1997$50,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 19971 death · $100,000 · 1 eventEstimated rainfall of 6 to 8 inches across the county in less than 36 hours caused area creeks and streams to overflow their banks. Several roads were closed across the entire county. One death occurred when the car stalled in high water and the driver of the car drowned.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$500,000 · 1 eventEstimated rainfall of 6 to 10 inches across the county in less than 36 hours caused area creeks and streams to rise out of their banks. Many secondary roads were closed countywide and 8 homes were flooded in Sanders.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1 to 2, 1997$500,000 · 1 eventEstimated rainfall of 4 to 8 inches across the county in less than 36 hours caused area creeks and streams to rise out of their banks. Numerous roads were closed due to high water and several evacuations occurred. A few bridges were washed away.
• Flooding in Kentucky, March 1 to 31, 1997$20 million · 3 eventsHistoric flooding occurred along the Green River as a result of widespread rainfall between 5 and 10 inches across central and western Kentucky. Virtually the entire town of Rumsey was evacuated before it was inundated by the Green River.
• Flooding in Kentucky, March 1, 199712 eventsWidespread flooding and/or flash flooding resulted from 4 to 9 inches of rainfall in less than 24 hours. Numerous roads were water covered and closed across these counties. Many homes and businesses were effected.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$30,000 · 1 eventSeveral businesses and basements were flooded. Numerous roads were flooded.
• Flooding in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$1.5 million · 7 eventsWidespread flooding and/or flash flooding occurred as a result of 4 to 8 inches of rainfall in less than 24 hours. Numerous roads were water covered and closed across these counties and many homes and businesses were effected.
• Flood in Kentucky, March 1 to 4, 1997$2.5 million · 1 event
• Flooding in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$1.0 million · 8 eventsIn between 3 and 8 inches of rain fell in less than 24 hours causing many streets across these counties to be under water. Larue, Casey and Taylor counties were given financial aid as they were declared disaster areas.
• Flash Flood in Illinois, March 1, 19972 injured · $50,000 · 1 eventHighways 145 and 146, the two main arteries through Pope County, were closed by high water and debris. A vehicle attempting to cross a flooded highway became submerged in floodwater.
• Flash Flood in Illinois, March 1, 1997$30,000 · 1 eventRoad and stream flooding was extensive.
• Flash Flood in Indiana, March 1 to 2, 19971 death · 1 eventOver 2 inches of rain fell on top of 4 to 8 inch totals in 24 hours causing widespread flash flooding with many roads water covered and closed. A 16 month old boy drowned as the car he was in filled with water as it stalled under a viaduct.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1 to 2, 19971 death · $1.2 million · 1 event1 to 2 inches of rain fell on top of 24 hour totals from 6 to 10 inches resulting in widespread flash flooding with many roads water covered and closed and homes damaged. A 13 year old boy was killed as he drowned trying to clean out his culvert.
• Flash Flood in Missouri, March 1, 19971 death · 1 injured · $6,000 · 1 eventA vehicle on Interstate 55 just south of Sikeston went out of control and into the St. Johns Bayou drainage ditch. A man pulled his wife to safety from the vehicle, then he fell back into the flooded ditch. His body was swept away and not recovered for over 24 hours.
• Flooding in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$5.1 million · 23 events4 to 9 inches of rain fell in less than 24 hours causing widespread flooding and/or flash flooding resulting in numerous water covered and closed roads, evacuations and rescues. Most of these counties were declared disaster areas and given federal assistance.
• Flooding in Kentucky, March 1 to 4, 1997$5.0 million · 3 eventsFlash flooding that began early in the day developed into widespread small stream and river flooding. The Licking River below Cave Run Lake, and along the Fleming-Bath County line reached its highest level in history. Sherburne was especially hard hit.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1 to 2, 1997$1.8 million · 1 event1 to 2 inch rain fell on top of 3 to 7 inch totals in less than 24 hours resulted in widespread flash flooding with many roads water covered and closed. Scott county was declared a disaster area. Damage totals include all the flooding and flash flooding from March 1-March 2.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1 to 2, 1997$1.0 million · 1 eventHeavy rain fell during the morning of March 1, during the afternoon of March 1, and again on the night of March 1 to 2. This resulted in repeated episodes of flash flooding. Numerous roads were flooded, and damage was widespread.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1 to 2, 1997$100,000 · 1 eventHeavy rain fell in the morning of March 1, the afternoon of March 1, and again during the overnight of March 1 to 2. This resulted in repeated episodes of flash flooding. Homes were flooded near Preston, Olympia, State Valley, and Wyoming.
• Flash Flood in Missouri, March 1, 19971 injured · $40,000 · 1 eventStreams and roads were flooded by thunderstorms. This round of storms was the final one over a two day period, bringing rainfall totals to near 8 inches in spots. Farm field flooding was extensive. A pickup truck attempting to cross a flooded roadway was swept into a ditch.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1 to 2, 1997$50,000 · 1 eventHeavy rain fell during the morning of March 1, the afternoon of March 1, and again during the night of March 1 to 2. This resulted in repeated episodes of flash flooding and numerous road closures.
• Flash Flood in Missouri, March 1, 1997$20,000 · 1 eventHigh water prompted the closure of three roads.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 19971 death · $300,000 · 1 eventA 41-year-old male drowned in Cypress Creek near Central City around 5 P.M. The man was attempting to ride in a rubber inner-tube on a swollen portion of the creek. Witnesses report the current forced him under a concrete bridge. The body was located a few days later.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$40 million · 1 eventOne of the worst flash floods in Christian County history damaged or destroyed 596 homes. A total of 15 dams received some degree of damage. At the height of the flood, travel was virtually halted countywide, including Interstate 24.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$800,000 · 1 eventRoutes 231, 81, and 136 were under water in places.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$300,000 · 1 eventMost of the flood damage was to roads and public property. Only two privately-owned buildings were damaged.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$200,000 · 1 eventU.S. Highway 68 and Kentucky Route 181 were closed out of Elkton.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$100,000 · 1 eventThe Union County Shopping Center parking lot rapidly filled with five to six feet of water. Several vehicles were partially or totally covered with water. Many employees were trapped in the stores and had to be rescued by large trucks.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$100,000 · 1 eventNumerous thunderstorms during a 24 hour period produced cumulative rainfall totals near 5 inches. Water was 5 to 6 feet over roadways near the Clarks River. A few mobile homes and a couple of vehicles were flooded.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$100,000 · 1 eventMost of the flood damage was caused by the Ohio River and its backwater. However, significant flash flooding of roads and low-lying areas occurred on the 1st. In Smithland and Salem, there were numerous reports of homes and businesses with flooded basements.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$100,000 · 1 eventEight to 9 inches of rainfall within a 3-day period caused extensive flooding of creeks and roads. Roads were closed at some point during the flooding to the north, south, and east of Princeton. U.S. 62 was closed near Princeton. Several Princeton businesses were flooded.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$70,000 · 1 eventThis was the final round in a series of storms that dropped nearly 8 inches of rain in 48 hours. Kentucky Highways 139, 1253, 272, and 1507 were closed in spots for days.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$70,000 · 1 eventHighway 41A was closed between Providence and Madisonville. One woman was evacuated from the northwestern part of the county as backwater from the Tradewater River rose. A cooperative observer in Sebree measured 7.57 inches of rain in three days.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$70,000 · 1 eventA violent thunderstorm moved across the county, dumping torrential downpours on ground that was already soaked by heavy rain earlier in the day. Over five inches of rain fell at Paducah for the day. Heavy rains caused part of the roof at Paducah Middle School to cave in.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$70,000 · 1 eventAbout 6 inches of rain within 48 hours caused flash flooding of roads and streams. Minor flooding of a nursing home was reported.Only a few evacuations were necessary. U.S. 45 was closed by high water between Water Valley and Wingo.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 19971 injured · $40,000 · 1 eventTorrential downpours falling on saturated ground resulted in widespread road and creek flooding. Numerous motorists were stranded in high water. High water swept one car from Kentucky 351 near Zion. Divers located the female occupant of the vehicle.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1, 1997$40,000 · 1 eventFlash flooding destroyed a bridge. Eight mobile homes were evacuated. About a dozen vehicles were stalled. About 85 residents of a nursing home in Owensboro were evacuated as water crept inside.
• Flash Flood in Illinois, March 1, 1997$400,000 · 1 eventA pump operated by the Army Corps of Engineers failed in Cairo, contributing to the flooding of about 160 basements. Rainfall totals in the 3 to 5 inch range over a 48-hour period caused a few road washouts.
• Flash Flood in Illinois, March 1, 1997$50,000 · 1 eventAround 6 inches of rain in 24 hours caused extensive flooding of streams and roads. A state of emergency was declared by the Illinois governor, which was later upgraded to a federal disaster area. Two county roads were closed in Massac County.
• Flash Flood in Illinois, March 1, 1997$20,000 · 1 eventSignificant flooding of roads and streams was caused by a series of thunderstorms over a 2-day period.
• Flash Flood in Illinois, March 1, 1997$20,000 · 1 eventThis final round of thunderstorms caused widespread flooding of roads and streams. No injuries or evacuations were reported.
• Flash Flood in Ohio, March 1 to 2, 1997$3.5 million · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Ohio, March 1 to 2, 1997$800,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Ohio, March 1 to 2, 1997$750,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Ohio, March 1 to 2, 1997$500,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Ohio, March 1 to 2, 1997$500,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1 to 2, 19971 death · 1 eventOver 2 inches of rain fell on top of 4 to 8 inch 24 hour totals resulting in widespread flash flooding with many roads water covered and closed. A 33 year old woman drowned as her minivan was swept into the Barren River.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 1 to 2, 1997$1.1 million · 1 eventOver 2 inches of rain fell on top of 3 to 7 inch 24 hour totals resulting in widespread flash flooding with many roads water covered and closed. Fayette county was declared a disaster area. Damage totals include all flooding and flash flooding from March 1-March 2.
• Flood in Kentucky, March 1 to 8, 1997$3.5 million · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Ohio, March 1 to 2, 1997$50,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Ohio, March 1 to 2, 1997$3.0 million · 1 eventWidespread two-day rainfall totals for March 1 and 2 generally ranged from 2.4 to 3.4 inches across much of Monroe County. The heavy rainfall led to widespread flooding across the county.
• Flash Flooding in Tennessee, March 1 to 2, 1997$50,000 · 7 eventsSeveral roads closed at Bumpus Mills.
• Flooding in Kentucky, March 1 to 11, 1997$29 million · 3 eventsRecord rainfall amounts from late evening Friday February 28 to the morning of Sunday March 2 lead to major flooding along the Salt River basin including the Rolling Fork.
• Flooding in Kentucky, March 1 to 16, 1997$3.0 million · 3 eventsThe Green River crested at 30.7 feet at Rochester at 1000 am est on March 7 (flood stage is 17 feet). This is the second biggest flood next to January 1950. Many homes were flooded out in Rochester and Woodberry along the river.
• Flash Flood in Ohio, March 2, 1997$1.0 million · 1 event
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 2, 1997$300,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 2, 1997$150,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 2, 1997$50,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 2, 1997$50,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 2, 1997$20,000 · 1 eventSome roads and bridges were flooded.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 2, 1997$20,000 · 1 eventNumerous roads were flooded, and a bridge was damaged.
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 2, 1997$500,000 · 1 eventHeavy rains led to widespread flood problems throughout Wetzel County. A Skywarn observer first reported flooding along Williams Run, 1 mile north of New Martinsville, and flood waters covered part of Route 2. Hydro Drive was also flooded. Route 7 and 20 were also flooded.
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 2, 1997$1.0 million · 1 event
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 2, 1997$1.0 million · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Ohio, March 2, 1997$1.0 million · 1 eventHeavy rainfall visited the county for the second night in a row causing area creeks and streams to rise out of their banks. Numerous roads were flooded and severely damaged. Also, 6 homes were damaged by high water.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 2, 1997$1.0 million · 1 event
• Flood in Tennessee, March 2 to 7, 1997$500,000 · 1 eventThe Red River was out of its banks. Local law enforcement reported 4 to 6 feet of water in the Belmont Subdivision. 60 homes were affected by the flooding in Montgomery county.
• Flash Flooding in Tennessee, March 2 to 3, 1997$300,000 · 8 eventsWidespread flooding throughout the county with many roads closed.
• Heavy Rain in Ohio, March 2, 1997$400,000 · 1 eventRocky Fork Lake came out of it's banks causing damage to the local state park and flooding 3 homes.
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 2, 1997$250,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Ohio, March 2, 1997$250,000 · 1 eventHeavy rainfall occurred for the second night in a row causing area creeks and streams to rise out of their banks. Numerous roads were covered by high water. Several evacuations occurred as 32 homes were damaged by the flooding.
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 2, 1997$100,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 2, 1997$100,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 2, 1997$100,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 2, 1997$50,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 2, 1997$50,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Kentucky, March 2, 1997$50,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 2, 1997$25,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 2, 1997$15,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Tennessee, March 2, 1997$500,000 · 1 eventThe Red River came out of its banks. Local law enforcement reported 4 to 6 feet of water in the Belmont Subdivision. About 60 homes were damaged from the flooding.
• Flooding in Kentucky, March 2 to 9, 19971 death · $9.8 million · 9 eventsRecord to near record rainfall from early March 1 through March 2 caused the highest flooding on the Kentucky River at Frankfort since 1937 with the river cresting at 45.2 feet at 1 pm est March 3 (flood stage is 31 feet).
• Flood in Louisiana, March 2 to 4, 1997$2.0 million · 1 eventHeavy rain led to major flooding along Lake D'Arbonne in north central Lousiiana. Three hundred homes were flooded in Farmerville prompting a state of emergency to be issued by the governor.
• Flash Flood in Ohio, March 2, 1997$750,000 · 1 event
• Flood in Ohio, March 2 to 3, 1997$1.0 million · 1 eventHeavy rainfall on the 1st and 2nd caused the Hocking River at Enterprise to rise out of its banks. U.S. Rte 33 and State Rte. 93 were flooded as well as numerous low lying roads in Sugar Grove. Rockbridge Elementary school and several nearby homes were flooded.
• Flash Flood in Ohio, March 2, 19971 death · $1.5 million · 1 eventPersistent heavy rainfall caused area creeks and streams to rise out of their banks. Numerous roads were closed due to high water. Breaks occurred in Crooked Creek's earthen levee destroying houses, cars, and several restaurants and businesses in Waverly.
• Flash Flood in Tennessee, March 2, 1997$1.0 million · 1 eventWidespread flooding around the county with many roads closed. About 250 homes and businesses were damaged.
• Flood in Ohio, March 2 to 4, 1997$750,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in Tennessee, March 2, 1997$250,000 · 1 eventLocal law enforcement reported high water on several roads. About 40 to 50 homes received some damage.
• Flash Flood in Tennessee, March 2, 1997$250,000 · 1 eventSeveral roads closed due to high water. 40 to 50 homes were damaged in the county.
• Flood in West Virginia, March 2 to 4, 1997$500,000 · 1 event
• Flooding in Texas, March 2 to 31, 19976 eventsSignificant flooding occurred along the Sabine River in northeast Texas during the entire month. A few homes in Longview, Tx and a few businesses in Gladewater reported flooding with secondary roads under several feet of water.
• Flood in Ohio, March 2 to 6, 19971 death · $500,000 · 1 event
• Flood in Ohio, March 2 to 6, 1997$1.5 million · 1 event
• Flood in West Virginia, March 2 to 6, 1997$700,000 · 1 event
• Flood in West Virginia, March 2 to 6, 1997$300,000 · 1 event
• Flooding in Ohio, March 2 to 11, 1997$15 million · 5 eventsHeavy rainfall occurred across Southern Ohio and Northern Kentucky on the 1st and 2nd with areas along the Ohio river receiving up to 12 inches of rainfall. The river rose rapidly reaching a crest of 59.8 feet at Portsmouth at 1000 pm on the 4th. Flood stage is 50.0 feet.
• Flood in West Virginia, March 2 to 3, 19971 death · $200,000 · 1 event
• Flash Flood in West Virginia, March 2, 1997$20,000 · 1 eventA SKYWARN spotter reported 2.3 inches storm total rainfall, 4 miles east of Blacksville. Dunkard Creek was out of its banks and a few homes were flooded. Nearby Jakes Run was also flooded.
• Flooding in Kentucky, March 2 to 31, 1997$25 million · 7 eventsMajor flooding of the lower Ohio River occurred in mid March. The crest near 52 feet at Paducah was the highest since about 1950, and one of the worst floods on record. It was still well below the record 60-foot crest in the Flood of 1937.
• Flooding in Indiana, March 2 to 27, 1997$2.5 million · 4 eventsWidespread rainfall amounts around 10 inches in the middle Ohio Valley, from around Louisville to Cincinnati, occurred over a one to three day period. This resulted in a massive flood crest that took a few weeks to travel down the Ohio River.
• Flash Flooding in Tennessee, March 2 to 3, 1997$200,000 · 10 events8 roads closed due to high water. Several roads were damaged. Hardest hit area was northwest to northeast of Pulaski.
• Flash Flooding in Tennessee, March 2 to 3, 1997$240,000 · 11 eventsHigh water on several secondary roads.
• Flood in Kentucky, March 2 to 7, 1997$1.0 million · 1 event
• Flood in West Virginia, March 2 to 4, 1997$400,000 · 1 event
• Flood in Ohio, March 2 to 4, 1997$200,000 · 1 event
• Flood in West Virginia, March 2 to 7, 19972 deaths · $500,000 · 1 event
• Flood in Ohio, March 2 to 7, 1997$2.0 million · 1 event
• Flood in West Virginia, March 2 to 7, 1997$700,000 · 1 event
• Flooding in Kentucky, March 2 to 15, 19971 death · $125 million · 7 eventsRecord rainfalls from late Friday evening February 28 through Sunday morning March 2 and additional heavy rainfall on Tuesday March 4 caused the worst flooding on the Ohio River since 1964 and in some spots since 1937.
• Flooding in Indiana, March 2 to 15, 1997$60 million · 6 eventsOhio River flooding. See narrative for north central Kentucky counties.
• Flooding in Indiana, March 2 to 11, 1997$6.0 million · 3 eventsHeavy rain fell across the Ohio valley on the 1st and 2nd with some areas upstream over Southern Ohio and Northern Kentucky receiving up to 12 inches.
• Flooding in Kentucky, March 3 to 5, 1997$20,000 · 4 eventsFlooding occurred along the Cumberland River.
• Flash Flooding and Flooding in West Virginia, March 3 to 4, 19975 eventsHeavy rainfall during the morning hours on the 12th produced flash flooding in Greenbrier County and minor flooding on the Greenbrier River.Flash flooding resulted in the closing of route 12 just west of Alderson and Monroe Draft road near Caldwell.The Greenbrier River crested a…
• Flooding in Kentucky, March 3 to 4, 1997$15,000 · 2 eventsMinor flooding occurred along the upper Licking River.
• Flooding in Kentucky, March 3 to 4, 1997$400,000 · 5 eventsFlooding occurred along the Kentucky River, and the South and North Fork of the Kentucky River. Some businesses and homes in Hazard were affected.
• Flooding in Louisiana, March 5 to 31, 19979 eventsThe Mississippi River exceeded flood stage during the first half of the month from Red River Landing to just west of New Orleans. The river crested at most locations between the 20th and 27th. The crest at Red River Landing, 61.3 feet, on March 26 was a flood of record.
• Flash Flood in Arkansas, March 5, 1997$100,000 · 1 eventHeavy rains resulted in flash flooding in and around Star City. A number of streets were covered with water for a period of time. Several bridges and culverts in the western part of the county were also washed out.
• Flooding in Iowa, March 9 to 13, 1997$150,000 · 13 eventsTemperatures for the month of March were slightly above normal with slightly below normal precipitaton.
• Flooding in Mississippi, March 9 to 26, 1997$7.3 million · 7 eventsThe Mississippi River when above flood stage around the 9th of March and crested between the 21st and 26th. Considerable damage occurred on the Mississippi side of the river. The following is a summary of property damage for each county.
• Flood in Texas, March 9 to 13, 1997$200,000 · 1 eventMinor river flooding began late in the evening of the 9th along the Llano River near Mason as the river exceeded bankfull of six feet. The river remained above bankfull through the morning of the 13th with 9.9 feet at 1120 p.m. on the 9th.
• Flash Flood in Texas, March 10, 1997$100,000 · 1 eventUp to eight inches of rain fell near London overnight and morning of the 10th. Highway 377 was closed to due to water five feet deep on low water crossings. The water receded very slowly during the morning hours.
• Flash Flood in Texas, March 11, 1997$20,000 · 1 eventNearly 4 inches of rain fell within 2 hours, producing countywide flash flooding of low lying areas in the eastern part of the county.
• Flash Flood in Texas, March 11, 1997$15,000 · 1 eventOver 4 inches of rain fell within 2 hours, producing widespread flash flooding across most of the county.
• Flooding in South Dakota, March 12 to 31, 199724 eventsWidespread snowmelt flooding began around the middle of March and continued through the end of the month. Record flooding occurred on the James River. Flooding also occurred on the Vermillion and Big Sioux Rivers and on smaller rivers and streams.
• Flooding in Iowa, March 12 to 31, 199711 eventsSporadic snowmelt flooding occurred in lowlands including farmland, on small streams, and along the Big Sioux, Floyd, Little Sioux, and Rock Rivers. Aside from some basement flooding, most flooding was to farmland and was not widespread.
• Flash Flood in Texas, March 12, 1997$130,000 · 1 eventTraining rains caused significant flooding throughout the Houston metropolitan area. Many bayous/streams were overbanks for much of the day. Widespread street flooding occurred with HPD receiving 675 flood related calls from 6 AM to 3 PM.
• Flood in Oklahoma, March 12, 19971 death · 1 eventOver a week after heavy rains fell over central and southeastern Oklahoma, some creeks and rivers in southeastern Oklahoma remained in flood.
• Flooding in Michigan, March 14, 1997$50,000 · 5 eventsThe same storm that brought heavy ice accumulations to southeast Michigan also brought flooding to many areas from Detroit south to the Ohio state-line. Total precipitation amounts ranged from 1.5 to nearly 2.5 inches across that area.
• Flooding in Indiana, March 14, 199726 eventsHeavy rains of 1 to 2 inches on saturated ground resulted in most small streams exceeding bankfull but impacting no more than farm fields.
• Heavy Rain in Washington, March 15 to 19, 19973 injured · $750,000 · 1 eventRainfall amounts, in inches, in the 24 hour period ending at 4 am on the 18th were, in the southern Olympics, Wynoochee Dam 6.77, at Wishkah Headworks 6.02.
• Heavy Rain in Washington, March 15 to 19, 1997$1.2 million · 1 eventAlong the coast 5 day rainfall totals from the 15th to the 19th ranged from 6.18 inches at Hoquiam to 12.03 inches at Forks. Montesano had 9 inches in the 24 hr period ending at 8 am on the 19th.
• Flooding in Minnesota, March 15 to 31, 199715 eventsThe Minnesota River reached flood stage at Henderson on 3/15/97 and continued to slowly flood through the last half of March and continued through April into the first half of May.
• Flooding in Iowa, March 19 to 23, 1997$50,000 · 18 eventsAnother round of warm weather resulted in another minor to moderate rise in river levels around the state. Flooding took place in many of the same places as during the previous event, however rises were not as strong and no significant damage was reported.
• Flooding in Washington, March 20, 1997$1.2 million · 5 eventsFlooding occurred on the Chehalis, Skykomish, Snohomish, Stillaguamish, Skagit, Naselle, Willapa, Satsop, Wynoochee, Elwha, Cedar and Tolt rivers. This was the first time in about 20 years the Wynoochee River flooded and about 150 people were evacuated along its banks.
• Flooding in Montana, March 20 to 22, 1997$280,000 · 2 eventsAfter a winter with record setting cold and snow, the rapid snow melt caused the Yellowstone River to rise to flood stage. Many ice jams developed causing low land flooding. While two homes were evacuated, no damage to homes was reported.
• Flooding in South Dakota, March 21 to 31, 199726 eventsAs temperatures began to warm up towards the end of March, the near record to record winter snowpack over central, north central and northeast South Dakota began to melt and runoff, filling up ditches, lakes, creeks, streams, and low-lying areas.
• Flooding in North Dakota, March 21 to 31, 19972 deaths · 1 injured · $3.0 million · 15 eventsWarm weather toward the end of March lead to rapid snow melt across southcentral North Dakota. This in turn lead to flooding across much of the area. Near the confluence of Spring Creek and the Knife River, the town of Beulah(Mercer Co) had 150 families evacuated.
• Flood in California, March 22, 1997$150,000 · 1 eventRainfall amounts reported with the afternoon thunderstorms in the Fresno County area indicated 2.2 inches of rain fell inside an hour.
• Flooding in Iowa, March 24 to 31, 1997$50,000 · 5 eventsAs the flooding from earlier in the month receded, rapid snowmelt made its presence known again over the upper portions of the Des Moines River basin in southwest Minnesota.
• Flooding in Minnesota, March 25 to 31, 19978 eventsSnowmelt flooding began in late March and continued through the end of the month. River flooding occurred on the Redwood, Rock, and on the upper West Fork Des Moines Rivers. Lowlands including farmland, roads, basements, and a few homes were flooded.
• Flooding in Minnesota, March 26 to 31, 199717 eventsAbove normal temperatures during the last week of March began melting a deep snowcover across much of west central into central Minnesota. Snow depth rank was in the 80 to 90th percentile over much of the area measured on 3/20/97. The snowcover had a high moisture content.
• Flood in Montana, March 27, 1997$25,000 · 1 eventSnow melt from southern Canada caused flooding along Battle Creek, east and north of Chonook. 5 county roads were washed out. Damage was estimated at $25,000.
• Coastal Flood in New York, March 31, 19971 death · 11 eventsAn intense low pressure system developed off the DELMARVA Coast during Monday morning. It moved slowly east-northeast, passing south of Long Island Monday afternoon and southeast of Cape Cod, MA during Tuesday morning, April 1st.Heavy rain developed Monday morning.
• Coastal Flood in Connecticut, March 31, 19971 death · 3 eventsAn intense low pressure system developed off the DELMARVA Coast during Monday morning. It moved slowly east-northeast, passing south of Long Island Monday afternoon and southeast of Cape Cod, MA during Tuesday morning, April 1st.Heavy rain developed by late Monday morning.
• Flooding in Louisiana, April 1 to 20, 1997$693,000 · 9 eventsFlooding along the Mississippi River, which crested in March, slowly receded with nearly all forecast points in southeast Louisiana below floodstage by April 22, 1997.
• Flooding in Iowa, April 1 to 10, 1997$150,000 · 9 eventsPreliminary information provided by State Climatologist Harry Hillaker of the Iowa Department of Agriculturena d Land Stewardship indicated a statewide average precipitation of 2.63 inches for the month. Normal is 3.16 inches.
• Flooding in South Dakota, April 1 to 30, 199726 eventsLate March flooding from the meltdown of the near record to record snowpack continued across parts of central and north central South Dakota and most of northeast South Dakota through the month of April.
• Flooding in South Dakota, April 1 to 30, 199724 eventsSnowmelt flooding continued from March. Major flooding occurred on rivers and streams, including record flooding along the James River. Crests on the James and Big Sioux Rivers occurred from April 3rd through April 9th. Flooding also occurred on lakes and lowlands.
• Flooding in Minnesota, April 1 to 10, 199718 eventsAbove normal temperatures during the last week of March began melting a deep snowcover across much of west central into parts of central Minnesota. Snow depth rank was in the 80 to 90th percentile over the area as measured on 3/20/97. The snowcover had a high moisture content.
• Flooding in Minnesota, April 1 to 30, 199714 eventsThe Minnesota River reached flood stage at Henderson on 3/15/97 and continued to slowly rise through the last half of March, peaking at many locations by mid April. The river remained above flood stage until mid May.
• Flooding in Iowa, April 1 to 30, 199711 eventsSnowmelt flooding continued from March in lowlands and along the Big Sioux and Little Sioux Rivers. The flooding along the Big Sioux River continued through the end of April, slowly abating during the last half of the month. Flooding elsewhere abated in early April.
• Flooding in Minnesota, April 1 to 15, 19978 eventsSnowmelt flooding continued from March. River flooding on the Redwood, Rock, and upper West Fork Des Moines Rivers peaked during the first week of the month. Lowlands including farmland, roads, basements, and a few homes were flooded.
• Flooding in Minnesota, April 1 to 24, 19974 eventsThe south fork of the Crow River reached flood stage of 8 feet at Delano on 3/31/97 which is the river monitoring point. The river crested on 4/8/97 at 14.4 feet which was the third highest crest ever measured.
• Flood in North Dakota, April 2 to 5, 1997$10 million · 1 eventOverland flooding due to melting snow forced the towns of Casselton, Amenia, and Mapleton to dike and sandbag. Water filled entire fields along Interstate 94 between Casselton and West Fargo, even flowing over Interstate 94 in several spots.
• Flash Flood in Texas, April 2, 1997$20,000 · 1 eventBrief flooding was reported over most county roads.
• Flooding in Nebraska, April 2 to 30, 19977 eventsFlooding on the Missouri River was the result of snowmelt runoff from the James, Vermillion, Big and Little Sioux, and Floyd rivers in South Dakota and northwest Iowa. In addition, record high releases from Gavins Point Dam added to the flooding.
• Flash Flood in Texas, April 2, 1997$50,000 · 1 eventRoads were closed across the county. At least one county road was completely washed out with severe damage.
• Flash Flooding in Texas, April 2 to 3, 199728 eventsAbundant subtropical moisture prevailed across South Texas during the start of April. A vigorous upper-level disturbance propagated across the region during the afternoon on the 2nd and the effects continued into the early morning hours on the 3rd.
• Flash Flood in Texas, April 2, 1997$50,000 · 1 eventRoads were closed and under water, mainly over the western part of the county.
• Flash Flood in Texas, April 2, 1997$30,000 · 1 eventRoads were cosed across the county due to as much as 4 inches of rain in less than 2 hours.
• Flash Flooding and Hail in Texas, April 2, 1997$75,000 · 2.75 in hail · 9 eventsSevere thunderstorms moved through the central and eastern sections of the Texas Panhandle producing flooding and large hail. Property damage in the form of cattle killed by the flooding and hail occurred.
• Flash Flooding and Hail in Texas, April 2 to 3, 19970.75 in hail · 9 eventsSevere thunderstorms moved through the eastern sections of the Texas Panhandle producing mainly flooding and some large hail.
• Flood in North Dakota, April 3 to 5, 1997$1.0 million · 1 eventMelting snow caused record runoff across Walsh county. Fields were covered with water due to overland flooding. Two to three feet of water flowed through the town of Minto, due to the rising Forest River. US Highway 81 through Minto was closed.
• Flood in North Dakota, April 3 to 5, 1997$500,000 · 1 eventSnowmelt across Ransom county resulted in rapid rises on the Sheyenne River in the Lisbon area, where a new record river level was set on the 5th.
• Flood in North Dakota, April 3 to 5, 1997$500,000 · 1 eventSnowmelt caused rapid rises in the Goose River, especially in the Mayville and Hillsboro areas.
• Flooding in Wisconsin, April 3 to 21, 1997$1.0 million · 6 eventsSeveral homes and businesses were damaged as the Mississippi River reached it's third highest flood on record. A crest of 16.4 feet occurred on the 11th at Alma and 15 feet at La Crosse on the 12th. Some roads were closed, while barge and rail traffic was dissrupted as well.
• Flooding in Minnesota, April 3 to 21, 1997$500,000 · 3 eventsThe Mississippi River reached it's third highest flood on record,affecting several homes and businesses. High water also forced the closure of some highways.
• Flash Flood in Texas, April 3, 19972 deaths · 1 eventBrief flash flooding countywide resulted from rainfall of between 2 and 3 inches in 2 hours. Near 2230CST, a man and his wife were traveling back home after an evening's trip. The couple were nearing their home as they encountered a flooded creek close to Medina.
• Flash Flood in Texas, April 4, 1997$50,000 · 1 eventStreet flooding throughout the county from 3-4"/hour rains. Many homes flooded in El Campo.
• Flash Flood in Texas, April 4, 1997$25,000 · 1 eventStreet flooding throughout county. A few houses flooded in Rosenberg.
• Flooding in Minnesota, April 4 to 26, 199710 eventsThe Mississippi River is monitored at various points including Red Wing, Anoka, Minneapolis, St. Paul and Hastings. The river reached flood stage at most locations around 4/7/97 and crested between 4/10/97 and 4/13/97.
• Flash Flood in Texas, April 4, 1997$15,000 · 1 eventWidespread flash flooding reported across low areas along county roads over much of the county.
• Flash Flooding and Hail in Texas, April 4, 1997$3,000 · 0.75 in hail · 9 eventsHigh water was reported over several city streets and roads.
• Flash Flooding in Arkansas, April 4 to 5, 199712 eventsHeavy rains resulted in flash flooding over a number of counties. A large number of bridges, roadways and low water crossings sustained damage. Several home and businesses were also damaged by the high water.
• Flash Flood in Louisiana, April 4 to 5, 1997$203,000 · 1 eventExcessive and rapid rainfall lead to numerous road closures and homes flooding. Affected subdivisions were Northland Estates, Tall Timbers, Cakhill Estates and Lucky Estates.
• Flash Flood in Arkansas, April 4, 1997$11 million · 1 eventFlooding was reported across the entire city. The local hospital had one foot of water in it while water also entered numerous homes. Rainfall for a 24 hour period averaged just under twelve inches.
• Flood in North Dakota, April 5 to 8, 1997$50 million · 1 eventThe rising Red River filled parts of Wahpeton with water, which froze in place as the temperature dropped. Floodfighters had to sandbag during the blizzard to try to save parts of the city. Many Richland county roads washed out or were closed due to the high water.
• Flood in Minnesota, April 5 to 8, 1997$20 million · 1 eventThe rising Red River filled half the city of Breckenridge with water, which froze in place as the temperature dropped. Floodfighters had to work in the middle of the blizzard to try to save parts of the city. A record level was set on the Red River in Wahpeton on the 6th.
• Flood in Minnesota, April 5 to 9, 1997$20 million · 1 eventOverland flooding and the Wild Rice River forced the evacuation of Ada. This town of 1,500 people was evacuated on April 7th by the National Guard. Helicopters were called in to help save stranded families around Norman county.
• Flooding in Missouri, April 5 to 30, 19976 eventsSnowmelt from the Northern Plains began to push the Missouri River above flood stage as early as the 5th. Then 2 to 3 inches of rain on the 10th and 11th helped put the river above flood stage through month's end in many locations across Northwest Missouri.Missouri RiverSt.
• Flash Flood in Arkansas, April 5, 19971 death · 1 eventHeavy rains caused flash flooding across parts of Johnson County. A vehicle driving across a low-water bridge was swept off the bridge by the high water. The driver of the vehicle drowned.
• Flash Flood in Louisiana, April 5, 1997$253,000 · 1 eventSeveral roads were underwater and closed across the city. Numerous cars were stranded including several police cars.
• Flash Flood in Louisiana, April 5, 19971 death · 1 eventA man was found dead after his car stalled in high water. He left the vehicle then disappeared when he stepped into a drainage ditch. His body was discovered several miles downstream.
• Flooding in Louisiana, April 5 to 6, 1997$30,000 · 2 eventsHeavy rain caused riverfront industry on Front Street in Morgan City to flood. On the unprotected side of the Front Street floodwall, the road was closed through the weekend.
• Flood in Minnesota, April 6 to 12, 1997$25,000 · 1 eventRapid melting of a snowpack with above normal water content and heavy rain produced flooding across parts of northeastern Minnesota. Flooding along the Snake River in southern Pine county caused damage to two permanent homes and several seasonal dwellings.
• Flood in Minnesota, April 6 to 9, 1997$161,000 · 1 eventRapid melting of a snowpack with above normal water content and heavy rain caused flooding across parts of northeastern Minnesota. Rising water on the Floodwood River affected mainly the community of Floodwood in southern St. Louis county.
• Flooding in Iowa, April 7 to 21, 1997$450,000 · 2 eventsThe third highest flood of record on the Mississippi River forced the closure of some highways and affected several homes and businesses. On the 15th, Lansing, McGregor and Guttenburg reached crests of 18.4, 21.4 and 19.4 feet respectively.
• Flood in North Dakota, April 8 to 10, 1997$100 million · 1 eventRecord levels on the Sheyenne River forced the closing of Interstate 29 near Harwood. New records were set on the Sheyenne at Kindred on the 8th, West Fargo on the 9th, and Harwood on the 10th.
• Flooding in Iowa, April 8 to 30, 19978 eventsSpring snowmelt from very heavy snow cover across the upper basin brought significant flooding to portions of the Mississippi River. Several locations reached the third through fifth highest crests of record.
• Flooding in Illinois, April 8 to 30, 19977 eventsSpring snowmelt from very heavy snow cover across the upper basin brought significant flooding to portions of the Mississippi River. Several locations reached the third through fifth highest crests of record.
• Flood in Minnesota, April 9 to 12, 1997$3.0 million · 1 eventNumerous county roads and bridges were closed due to overland flooding and the rising Mustinka River. The towns of Herman and Norcross experienced some flooding in residential areas.
• Flash Flooding and Hail in Texas, April 10, 19971.25 in hail · 5 eventsThunderstorms across the southern sections of the Texas Panhandle produced large hail along with some flooding.
• Flash Flood in Texas, April 10 to 11, 1997$550,000 · 1 eventWidespread flash flooding developed over the county just before midnight as the result of general 5 inch rainfall, with isolated totals up to 10 between Cuero and Hocheim. The flooding caused major damage to roads and crops across the entire county.
• Flash Flood in Texas, April 10, 1997$50,000 · 1 eventGeneral 1 to 2 inches of rain fell over Karnes County. Isolated totals were reported near 4 inches. Brief flash flooding was reported.
• Flash Flood in Texas, April 10 to 11, 1997$30,000 · 1 eventRainfall totals in southern Gonzales County of up to 4" produced flooding of low areas across most of this part of the county.
• Flash Flood in Texas, April 10 to 11, 19971 death · $1.1 million · 1 eventGeneral 6" rain amounts, with isolated totals near 14 inches were reported around Lavaca County. Hwy 95 was closed from Yoakum to Shiner, with widespread closures across the county. One man drowned in his truck while trying to get to Hallettsville to his job around 0100CST.
• Flooding in Missouri, April 11 to 20, 199713 eventsUp to 3.5 inches of rain fell over Northwest Missouri on the 10th and 11th resulting many small streams to rise above flood stage.
• Flooding in Kansas, April 11 to 15, 19975 eventsHeavy rainfall totaled 2 to 3 inches on the 10th and 11th resulting in minor to moderate river flooding over portions of extreme Eastern Kansas.
• Flood in Oklahoma, April 11, 19971 death · 1 injured · 1 eventHeavy rains in north-central Oklahoma on Friday April 10th caused several rivers and streams in north-central Oklahoma, including the Chikaskia River, to flood.
• Flash Flood in Texas, April 11, 1997$15,000 · 1 eventNumerous reports of street flooding throughout the county. One house flooded in Wharton.
• Flash Flood in Texas, April 11, 1997$15,000 · 1 eventHomes flooded in Needville.
• Flooding in Kansas, April 11 to 14, 199710 eventsWidespread moderate to heavy rain of 1 to 3 inches which fell in northeast and east central kansas, followed by runoff from melting snow in north central kansas caused several rivers to overflow their banks.
• Flood in North Dakota, April 13 to 16, 1997$25 million · 1 eventA second crest on the Red River at Wahpeton occurred on April 15th. Record releases from White Rock Dam, the source of the Bois de Sioux River, helped cause the second crest. The previous record release of 3770 cfs, set prior to 1997, was nearly doubled, to around 7000 cfs.
• Flood in Minnesota, April 13 to 16, 1997$20 million · 1 eventA second crest on the Red River in Breckenridge occurred on April 15th. Record releases from White Rock Dam, the source of the Bois de Sioux River, helped cause the second crest. The previous record release of 3770 cfs, set prior to 1997, was nearly doubled, to around 7000 cfs.
• Flood in North Dakota, April 16 to 20, 1997$150 million · 1 eventThe cresting Red River caused numerous problems to the Hickson and Fargo areas. Numerous homes along the river were flooded, as the river rose to a new record for the century on the 18th, at 39.55 feet.
• Flood in Minnesota, April 16 to 20, 1997$25 million · 1 eventThe Red River crested at a new high for the century in Fargo on April 18th. 150 homes in the Oakport Township north of Moorhead were flooded. The river came up through the storm sewers in Moorhead and blew off several manhole covers.
• Flash Flood in Maine, April 16 to 17, 1997$350,000 · 1 eventOn the morning of April 16, the dam on Apple Valley Lake breached causing flooding in North Monmouth. Flood damages totalled about $250,000 to roads and about $100,000 to homes.
• Flood in Minnesota, April 17 to 23, 1997$600 million · 1 eventThe Red River crested in East Grand Forks on the 21st/22nd just over 54 feet, shattering the previous record by over 5 feet. Problems with the river gauge led to difficulties in obtaining stages.
• Flood in North Dakota, April 17 to 21, 1997$10 million · 1 eventThe Red River was reported to be 10 miles wide as it reached Traill county. The river set a new record stage at Halstad on the 19th.
• Flood in Minnesota, April 17 to 21, 1997$10 million · 1 eventThe Red River was reported to be 10 miles wide as it reached Norman county. Several days of strong west winds produced whitecaps that threatened dikes in Perley and Hendrum. Both these towns were evacuated, with only essential people remaining to fight the flood.
• Flood in North Dakota, April 18 to 23, 1997$3.0 billion · 1 eventThe Red River reached a new record level in Grand Forks, just over 54 feet, on April 21st/22nd, shattering the previous record by over 5 feet. Problems with the river gauge led to difficulties in obtaining stages.
• Coastal Flood and High Wind in Massachusetts, April 19, 1997$100,000 · 84 kt wind · 21 eventsAn intense low pressure system moved just to the south of Nantucket and produced northeast to north winds gusting to hurricane force on Cape Cod and Nantucket. Moderate coastal flooding occurred on Nantucket with minor coastal flooding on Cape Cod.
• Flood in North Dakota, April 19 to 25, 1997$10 million · 1 eventFloodwaters from the Red River closed Interstate 29 at the Oslo, Minnesota, exit. Most roads east of the interstate were closed due to high water. A ring dike around the city of Grafton kept it dry from the Park River. The Red River crested on the 23rd in Oslo.
• Flood in Minnesota, April 19 to 25, 1997$10 million · 1 eventAs the Red River crested in Oslo on the 23rd, the city was surrounded by water. The ring dike held together, keeping the city dry. Floodwaters from the Snake River flooded the city of Warren on the 19th, causing problems to one-third of the town.
• Flash Flooding and Hail in Texas, April 20, 1997$27,000 · 1.5 in hail · 12 eventsTrees were blown down in the southern part of the city.
• Flooding in North Dakota, April 21 to 24, 19971 injured · $20 million · 2 eventsSnowmelt caused lakes, coulees, and ditches to fill with water, running toward Devils Lake. The 3 coulees running into Devils Lake experienced record flows. 80 percent of the county roads were estimated to be under water at some point.
• Flood in North Dakota, April 21 to 30, 1997$20 million · 1 eventThe rising Red River closed Interstate 29 near Pembina. The city of Drayton was evacuated on the 22nd, but many floodfighters returned and saved most of the city by constructing a plywood dike.
• Flood in Minnesota, April 21 to 30, 1997$5.0 million · 1 eventDiking helped prevent the town of St. Vincent from being flooded, but could not save the small town of Robbin. The river was estimated to be 20 miles wide north of Drayton, ND, and 25 miles wide near St. Vincent.
• Flash Flooding and Flood in Tennessee, April 21 to 30, 1997$325,000 · 1.75 in hail · 35 eventsLightning caused a fire that destroyed 2 sawmill buildings at Freeman's Wood Products, Inc.
• Flood in Alaska, April 23 to May 16, 1997$25,000 · 1 eventAn ice jam formed near the mouth of the Gakona river at the Glenn Highway bridge at the end of April. Overflow problems were reported as early as April 23rd...however minor flooding of property actually did not begin until April 28th.
• Flash Flood and Heavy Snow in Texas, April 25, 1997$3.0 million · 6 eventsUnusual day in the Texas Panhandle where storm system dumped anywhere from 4 to 8 inches of snow during the morning and afternoon and also flooding occurred in the south central Texas Panhandle.
• Flash Flooding and Damaging Wind in Texas, April 25, 1997$236,000 · 7 eventsWidespread flash flooding developed across nearly all county roads due to nearly 4 inches of rain.
• Coastal Flood in Texas, April 25 to 27, 1997$655,000 · 5 eventsA strong easterly fetch off the Gulf produced coastal flooding along the upper Texas coast from April 25th-27th. The most extensive flooding/damage occurred from High Island to Jamaica Beach along the Gulf and the western shore of Galveston Bay.
• Flash Flooding in Texas, April 25, 1997$33,000 · 6 eventsWidespread flash flooding was reported countywide due to over 3 inches of rain within 2 hours. Numerous roads remained closed through the noon hour.
• Flood in Florida, April 26, 1997$2.9 million · 1 eventHeavy rain caused localized flooding between two and three feet deep which damaged numerous automobiles at the De Soto Square Mall. A few homes in low-lying areas of Bradenton received rug damage from flooding rains.
• Flash Flooding and Hail in Mississippi, April 26 to 27, 1997$19,000 · 1 in hail · 16 eventsSeveral trees were blown down in Natchez and a couple other locations throughout the county.
• Flash Flooding and Hail in Louisiana, April 27, 1997$65,000 · 0.88 in hail · 6 eventsNickel sized hail was reported by the sheriffs office in New Roads. Lightning struck the communications tower of the sheriffs office in New Roads. Heavy rainfall, between 3 and 6 inches, fell across Pointe Coupee, West Feliciana, and East Feliciana Parishes during the morning.
• Flash Flooding in Mississippi, April 27, 1997$30,000 · 2 eventsThree to six inches of rainfall caused many small streams and low lying areas to flood. Several rural highways along with streets in rural communities in Pike and Walthall Counties were flooded. Several homes in McComb and one business in Summit, Pike County were flooded.
• Flash Flood in Louisiana, April 27, 1997$30,000 · 1 eventUp to four inches of rain fell in two hours or less across New Iberia. Major street flooding turned even more serious when water entered several homes.
• Heavy Rain in Ohio, May 1 to 31, 1997$1.0 million · 30 eventsDue to excess rainfall and lower than normal temperatures, approximately 75 percent of field planting was not done on time. Some farmers got an early start, but crops already in the ground were underwater and rotting.
• Flooding in Louisiana, May 1 to 9, 1997$120,000 · 4 eventsSignificant flooding developed on Lake Bistineau for the fifth time since November 1996. Several homes, camps, and secondary roadways suffered damage from the flood waters.
• Flooding in Texas, May 1 to 9, 1997$100,000 · 2 eventsSignificant flooding developed on Caddo Lake in northeast Texas where several homes suffered flood damage. The flood waters were most pronounced in the area of Caddo Lake below the confluences of the Big, Little, and Black Cypress Bayous.
• Flooding in Minnesota, May 1 to 16, 199714 eventsThe Minnesota River remained in flood stage through mid May. The river first went above flood stage in late March. Peak crests of the river were reached during the first two weeks of April. The crest at Montevideo reached 23.9 feet on 4/7/97 which set a new record crest.
• Flooding in Missouri, May 1 to 31, 19977 eventsSeveral episodes of heavy rain across West Central and Northwest Missouri during May caused minor to moderate river flooding.
• Flooding in Missouri, May 1 to 31, 19976 eventsThe Missouri River , in flood since mid April, remained above flood stage through much of May.Missouri RiverSt.
• Flooding in South Dakota, May 1 to 31, 19976 eventsFlooding from spring snowmelt continued along the James River throughout May. No new damage or problems were reported, but farmland and other lowlands along the river continued to be flooded despite the slow fall.
• Flooding in Nebraska, May 1 to 31, 19975 eventsFlooding along the Missouri river continued as a result of snowmelt runoff from the northern plains and subsequent high releases from upstream dams.
• Flooding in South Dakota, May 1 to 17, 19975 eventsFlooding from spring snowmelt continued along the Big Sioux River at the beginning of May. Although secondary crests occurred early in the month, flooding was still well down from early April.
• Flooding in Idaho, May 1 to 31, 1997$4.0 million · 8 eventsDuring the month of May, unusually heavy snow pack at the higher elevations of Idaho began to melt. Runoff swelled many rivers statewide to flood stage. Hardest hit by damaging floods were the counties in the Idaho Panhandle.
• Flooding in Montana, May 1 to 31, 1997$2.3 million · 6 eventsSnowmelt flooding caused numerous road closures and road washouts throughout the region. In Flathead County, at least three road washouts were reported and one bridge damaged.
• Flooding in South Dakota, May 1 to 2, 19978 eventsHeavy rains of 1.5 to 2.5 inches with isolated 4.5 inch amounts fell over central South Dakota and caused the flooding of several creeks, streams, low-lying areas, and roads. This early May rain only aggravated the areas flooded in March and April.
• Flash Flooding and Hail in Mississippi, May 2, 1997$70,000 · 0.88 in hail · 18 eventsA patrol car was damaged by dime size hail.
• Flash Flood in Louisiana, May 2, 1997$325,000 · 1 eventSlow moving thunderstorms led to 4 to 5 inches of rain over a short period of time. This resulted in flash flooding with numerous roads underwater and flooding of homes in the town. Sixty separate sites were reported by the Public Works Director for the area.
• Flash Flooding in Alabama, May 2, 1997$39,000 · 2 eventsUp to seven inches of rain fell causing several roads to wash out including CR 95 between SR 253 and SR 44. In Winfield, the city park was under up to 6 feet of water, destroying an ice machine, a pitching machine and a concession stand.
• Flash Flood in Alabama, May 2 to 3, 1997$45,000 · 1 eventOver 5 inches of rain fell over parts of the county causing storm drains to fill up quickly. Several roads were washed away and water businesses and homes had up to 1 1/2 feet of water in them. The fire station in Guntersville had several inches of water in the truck bay.
• Flash Flooding in Georgia, May 3, 1997$237,000 · 5 eventsA slow moving line of storms crossed into northwest Georgia from Alabama and moved southeast across the Peach State. These storms produced more than 5 inches of rain in a less than twelve hour period late Friday night and early Saturday morning.
• Flash Flood in Alabama, May 3, 1997$38,000 · 1 eventEighteen people had to be evacuated from a mobile home park, some of them by boat, when a small creek flooded causing several feet of water in the park. Several cars were totally submerged and the water reached into a few of the homes.
• Flood in Iowa, May 7, 1997$75,000 · 1 event
• Flood in Iowa, May 7, 1997$40,000 · 1 event
• Flood in Iowa, May 7, 1997$15,000 · 1 event
• Flooding in Iowa, May 7 to 8, 1997$10,000 · 7 eventsMuch of the raihnfall in Iowa during the month of May occurred during the first week of the month. A significant rainfall event occured on the 7th. Rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches were common east and south of Des Moines, with some spotty amounts to 4 inchs.
• Flash Flooding in Texas, May 9, 1997$75,000 · 3 eventsA car was washed off Farm-to-Market Road 2123.
• Flash Flooding in Texas, May 9, 1997$50,000 · 5 eventsPortions of Highway 377 were flooded and closed.
• Flash Flooding in Texas, May 9, 1997$70,000 · 3 eventsSeveral roads were reported flooded and a few houses had flood waters in them.
• Flash Flooding and Lightning Strike in Texas, May 9, 19971 injured · $120,000 · 4 eventsFarm-to-Market Road 1189 was flooded.
• Flash Flooding and Dust Storm in Oregon, May 12 to 31, 19973 injured · 1.75 in hail · 6 eventsA thunderstorm sent a 2-foot wall of water through several homes and fields soaking carpet and scattering silt over several hundered acres. The water also took out fences and caused damage to a road.
• Flash Flooding and Hail in Texas, May 15, 1997$125,000 · 1.75 in hail · 12 eventsLightning struck a house and started a fire that resulted in extensive damage.
• Flash Flood in Utah, May 15, 1997$1.2 million · 1 eventDuring the early morning hours a canal broke in Draper. High waters due to the runoff of an above normal snow pack in the mountains caused the break. 10 homes in the Victor's Pond subdivision were flooded with a combination of water, mud and debris.
• Flooding in Utah, May 15 to 29, 1997$170,000 · 3 eventsThe runoff from the above normal snowpack in the northern Utah mountains caused flooding along several rivers during the second-half of May. Sandbagging efforts minimized what could have resulted in a costly spring runoff season.
• Flash Flood and Hail in Arizona, May 18 to 20, 19972 deaths · $500 · 55 kt wind · 6 eventsA tin roof was blown off a shed.
• Flash Flood in Ohio, May 18, 1997$50,000 · 1 eventHeavy thunderstorm rain caused flooding of streets and low lying areas. In New Lyme, some cars were floating on the water.
• Flash Flood in Utah, May 19, 1997$100,000 · 1 eventSnowmelt water overflowed a high elevation irrigation canal which was blocked with ice. The overflow caused rapid erosion of loose soils on a forested mountainside 24 miles northwest of Vernal. This resulted in a 1000 yard long chasm up to 300 feet deep and 1000 feet wide.
• Flash Flood in Pennsylvania, May 19, 19971 death · 1 eventHeavy thunderstorm rains led to a small creek leading to Little Mingo Creek to go out of its banks and flood Beagle Club Road. Water collected around a nearby horse barn.
• Flash Flood in California, May 19, 1997$200,000 · 1 eventA southern California radio station reported that more than 20 homes were flooded in Twentynine Palms from heavy thunderstorm rains. Also...the flooding closed Route 62 for about 10 hours due to mud and debris across the road.
• Flash Flooding and Damaging Winds in Tennessee, May 19, 1997$110,000 · 50 kt wind · 7 eventsSeveral stores suffered high water invasion.
• Flash Flooding and Damaging Winds in Kentucky, May 19 to 31, 1997$52,000 · 50 kt wind · 4 eventsCamper overturned and roof blown off a shed.
• Flash Flood and Flood in Mississippi, May 19, 1997$100,000 · 2 eventsThunderstorm persisted over the same region of coastal Mississippi producing torrential rainfall. A National Weather Service cooperative observer in Waveland recorded 7.75 inches of rain during the afternoon and evening hours.
• Flash Flood and Damaging Winds in Tennessee, May 19, 1997$50,000 · 50 kt wind · 5 eventsHighway department reported about 5 trees blown down.
• Flash Flood and Hail in Texas, May 19, 1997$20,000 · 1 in hail · 4 eventsNumerous large limbs blown out of trees and phone lines blown down by high winds.
• Heavy Rain in Pennsylvania, May 19, 19971 death · 2 injured · 1 eventHeavy thunderstorm rain and some wind weakened the roots of a large tree and the tree fell onto a pickup truck's windshield travelling on Route 66. A 13 year-old passenger was killed by the falling tree.
• Flash Flooding and Damaging Winds in Texas, May 19, 1997$85,000 · 57 kt wind · 6 eventsLightning struck a home and started a fire that resulted in considerable damage.
• Flash Flooding and Lightning Strike in Texas, May 19, 1997$40,000 · 8 eventsSeveral streets were reported impassable due to high water.
• Flash Flooding and Hail in Texas, May 19, 1997$78,000 · 1.5 in hail · 8 eventsGeneral 3 inch rainfall in under 3 hours across the counties, with isolated totals in Gillespie County to near 5 inches produced widespread flash flooding as reported by Amateur Radio Spotters. Widespread flash flooding forced roads closings across the multi-county area.
• Flash Flooding in Texas, May 23, 1997$60,000 · 2 eventsGeneral rainfall of 2 to 4 inches in under 3 hours produced widespread flash flood. The worst in Hays County was along the southwest part of the county, near the Comal County line. Numerous rescues were reported across Travis County.
• Flood in Kansas, May 24, 1997$50,000 · 1 eventThe pressure of high water in the Chapman Creek, which resulted from 2 to 4 inches of rain which fell the previous night, caused a levee to break near the town of Industry. The water flooded the basements of several houses.
• Flash Flooding and Damaging Wind in Texas, May 24, 1997$15,000 · 3 eventsWidespread flash flooding was reported over Lavaca and DeWitt Counties as a result of rain totals nearing 3 inches countywide. The most severe flooding took place from Cuero to Hallettsville.
• Flash Flood in Wyoming, May 24, 1997$60,000 · 1 eventHeavy rainfall totalling more than 3 inches fell from southwest of Yoder to around Torrington. Four feet of water was reported over state highway 156 2 miles south of Torrington at 515 pm MST.
• Flash Flooding and Hail in Nebraska, May 24 to 26, 1997$4.1 million · 1.5 in hail · 4 eventsA large area of western Kimball County received in excess of 5 inches of rain in less than 5 hours, with the remainder of the county and western Cheyenne County averaging more than 2 inches. The maximum rainfall reported was 7. 5 inches in the southwest corner of the county.
• Flood in Ohio, May 25 to 26, 1997$100,000 · 1 eventThe Blanchard river at Findlay exceeded its flood stage of 11.0 feet and crested at 13.7 feet at 0535 EST on 05/26/97. Flooding occurred on County Highway 140 and East Main Cross Street. Riverside Park experienced flooding as did the sewage plant.
• Heavy Rain in Pennsylvania, May 25, 19971 death · 8 eventsA series of low pressure systems traveling west to east along a nearly stationary frontal boundary produced some locally heavy rain across Eastern Pennsylvania.
• Heavy Rain in New Jersey, May 25 to 26, 199713 eventsA series of low pressure systems traveling west to east along a nearly stationary frontal boundary produced some locally heavy rain across central and southern New Jersey from the daylight on the 25th through the early morning of the 26th.
• Flash Flooding in Ohio, May 25, 19975 eventsHeavy thunderstorm rain caused flooding of low lying areas, streams and roads. There was 5 feet of water on some roads in Wood County , and in Hancock County some people had to be rescued from their cars.
• Heavy Rain in Maryland, May 25 to 26, 19975 eventsA series of low pressure systems traveling west to east along a nearly stationary frontal boundary produced some locally heavy rain across the Delmarva Peninsula from the daylight hours on the 25th through the early morning of the 26th.
• Flash Flood in Pennsylvania, May 25 to 26, 1997$200,000 · 1 eventWidespread heavy thunderstorm rains covered southwest Pennsylvania. Hardest hit was Westmoreland County. Widespread 3-4 inch rainfall totals were common across the county. Numerous roads were flooded and several basements were flooded. Route 982 was closed north of Route 30.
• Flash Flood in Pennsylvania, May 25 to 26, 1997$100,000 · 1 eventHeavy thunderstorm rains led to widespread flooding across Butler County. The Little Buffalo Creek and small tributary streams of the Connoquenessing River went out of their banks. About 100 basements flooded throughout the county. Several roads were also flooded.
• Flood in Ohio, May 25 to 26, 1997$50,000 · 1 eventThe Huron River at Milan exceeded its flood stage of 14.0 feet and and crested at 17.5 feet at 23:14 EST on 05/25/97. Flooding occurred in lagoon communities from Milan to Huron and flood waters approached some small businesses in Milan near Route 250.
• Flash Flood in Louisiana, May 25, 1997$15,000 · 1 eventDoppler radar estimates of between four and six inches of rain in a three hour span, resulting in widespread street flooding. Several homes received a foot of water in them.
• Flash Flooding in Ohio, May 25, 1997$20,000 · 8 eventsHeavy thunderstorm rain caused flooding of streets, streams, low lying areas and basements. Some roads were closed due to the high water. Spring Run in Carey (Wyandot County), crested at seven feet.
• Flash Flooding in Pennsylvania, May 25, 19974 events2 to 4 inches of rain fell across the four county area flooding small streams and poor drainage areas.

Every billion-dollar disasterEvery storm of 1997Tornadoes in 1997

NOAA NCEI, U.S. Billion-Dollar Weather and Climate Disasters (2025), https://doi.org/10.25921/stkw-7w73, and the Storm Events Database for the episodes.