Weather Alerts
Rain wind and flooding continue to be an issue for the coast and inland as atmospheric rivers move through the area. Heavy rains are in the forecast for the day and through the evening hours and into tomorrow. A flood watch and a flood advisory is in effect for our entire listening area. The weather also brings the possibilities of slides and road closures. Areas in eugene have already experienced flooding. The national weather service is predicting more rain and the flood watch will be in effect until 4pm tomorrow. The flood advisory will be in effect until 1am Thursday. Both the flood advisory and the flood watch explicitly list Lane County, but the reports are mainly focused on “far northwest Oregon”. There is also a beach hazard statement for the coast as sneaker waves are a potential with the current storm conditions forecast.
Rainy Tree Lighting
More than two inches of rain had fallen in Florence over the 24-hours prior to Saturday evening’s Christmas Tree Lighting in Old Town Florence. City Manager Erin Reynolds said, the crowd was lighter than in previous years, but that didn’t “dampen” the enthusiasm of the crowd of about one hundred.
“The mayor, right before the tree lighting happened mentioned, he said like, take a look to the right and left of you. Look in those people’s faces because those are the hardiest of Florence residents.”
Reynolds said in all the years she has been involved with the ceremony, this by far was the wettest.
“Even Santa and Mrs. Claus were out in the rain. They did have umbrellas; before and after were taking photos and were in great spirits.”
Reynolds was very complimentary of the city employees, especially those from Public Works, who worked to make the event a success.
Photo Display
Former Florence City Manager Rodger Bennet has been taking world class photos for years according to Scott Steward with Creative Wave Marketing. Bennett’s photos are on display this month at the Florence Area Chamber of Commerce Visitor’s Center. The display will continue through the end of January and can be viewed Monday through Friday from 10 am until 4 pm.
Perfect Gift For the Outdoor Enthusiast
If you are looking for a gift idea for someone who loves the outdoors, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department are offering their 12 month pass this month for just $25 dollars. Day use parking normally cost $5.00 per visit. Stefanie Knowlton, with OPRD says the pass makes excellent stocking stuffers. They are available at oregonstateparks.org.
