Flooding
Flooding is Shannon County's number-one hazard. The spring-fed Current River and Jacks Fork are clear and beautiful — and they can rise faster than people expect, even when the sky overhead is blue.
Why our rivers flood
These are steep, fast-responding Ozark watersheds with no upstream dams to hold water back. Heavy rain — sometimes miles upstream — can send the rivers up quickly. The floodplain holds homes, river camps, businesses, and, in summer, thousands of floaters and campers.
Watch the rivers
This site shows live river levels for the Jacks Fork at Eminence and other gauges, with the official National Weather Service flood categories. During heavy rain, also listen for Flash Flood Warnings on a NOAA Weather Radio or your phone — small creeks can flood when the main rivers look calm.
The 2017 flood
In late April and early May 2017, the worst flood in the recorded history of the Current River system hit the county. The Jacks Fork and Current River shattered records set in 1904, and the entire Ozark National Scenic Riverways closed. It was a 200- to 500-year event — a reminder that the rivers deserve respect.
What to do
Before
- Know whether your home or camp is in a floodplain, and plan two ways out.
- Keep your emergency kit ready and watch the forecast and river levels.
During
- Move to higher ground early. Don't wait to be told to leave.
- Never walk, swim, or drive through floodwater. If your vehicle stalls in rising water, get out and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
After
- Return only when officials say it's safe. Avoid downed power lines and report them.
- Don't drink or wash with water that may be contaminated; photograph damage for assistance claims.