City of Medford Floodplain Ordinance - PDF

Your Quick Guide to Flood

The rainy season is rapidly approaching and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting above normal precipitation in our area this year.  With this in mind, it’s time to start thinking about being prepared for high water, especially if you live near a creek or in the high risk floodplain.  Here’s what you need to know:

• Buy flood insurance to protect your property and belongings.  Flood insurance is the most effective action you can take to protect your property.  Regardless of your flood risk level – be it high or low risk – you can obtain a flood insurance policy.  There is a 30-day waiting period before coverage starts, so contact your insurance agent right away to explore your insurance options.
• Maintain the drainage around your home by trimming overgrown blackberries and removing obstructions along streams, and keeping storm drains clear of leave litter and other debris.
• Check with the Jackson County Emergency Operations Center if a flood becomes imminent.  They handle the Flood Warning System for the City and all Jackson County.  Their phone number is (541) 774-6821.
• Purchase sandbags well before a flood becomes imminent if you know you are going to need them.
• Prepare an evacuation plan for your family, and build an emergency kit.
• Apply to be on the Disaster Registry if you or someone you know needs special assistance when disasters occur.  Contact Senior & Disability Services of Rogue Valley Council of Governments at (541) 664-6674 for more information.
• Remember that high water is dangerous.  Always steer clear of high water whether on foot or in a vehicle.

The content of this web page provides detailed information about City of Medford flood hazards and ways you can be prepared for the next flood.

The City of Medford provides technical assistance related to all subjects below.  For additional information you may contact the Floodplain Coordinator at (541) 774-2395.

Flood Insurance

Flood Hazard Real Estate Notice

Public Outreach Notifications

• Flooding - General Overview
• Challenging the Lender's Map Determination
• About Mandatory Flood Insurance
• Development in Flood Hazard Areas
• Insurance, Safety, and Assistance
• Dam Safety / Flood Inundation Map
• Local Disaster Shelter Location Map
• Evacuation Information - City of Medford

Important Contact Information

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):
Phone: (425) 487-4600

Floodsmart
Flood Insurance Info.

Division of State Lands (DSL)
Phone: (503) 378-3805

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW)
Phone: (503) 872-5268

Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF)
Phone: (503) 945-7200

National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS)
Phone: (206) 526-6150

National Weather Service
View real time gages with flood warning information.
Includes radar, satellite and weather maps.
Phone: (541) 774-1067

Red Cross
Phone: (541) 779-3773
Locate Disaster Shelter