With a soaking storm on the way and flood conditions on the table, Hillsboro has rolled out two do-it-yourself sandbag filling stations for residents bracing for high water. The self-service sites are set up at Griffin Oaks Park (1890 NE Griffin Oaks Street) and Frances Street Park (6205 SE Frances Street). Neighbors are asked to bring their own shovels, expect a fill-your-own-bag setup, and watch their footing on what is likely to be very slick ground.
The City is pushing out the information on X, noting that sandbag fill stations are available at both parks and that the advisory has been reshared by Hillsboro Fire & Rescue. The post highlights the locations and basic how-to guidance for filling bags, according to City of Hillsboro.
Why the sites are open
The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for the Portland metro and Tualatin Valley as a strong storm moves through the region, raising the odds of street and creek flooding through the weekend. Forecasters say steady rain with periods of heavier downpours could drop one to two inches of rain in some areas, sending extra runoff into low-lying neighborhoods. For timing and detailed conditions, residents can check the local forecast from the agency, according to National Weather Service.
How to use the sandbag stations
Hillsboro's weather resources page notes that the sandbag fill sites are in the parking lots at Griffin Oaks Park and Frances Street Park, not out on the street, and again reminds residents to bring their own shovels to get the job done. The page lists Public Works as the contact for questions and urges people to avoid working in the roadway during heavy rain, according to City of Hillsboro.
County resources and safety
Washington County's sandbag sites page also flags the two Hillsboro parks and explains that locations are usually self-service during major flooding events, with agencies stepping in to staff them as needed. The county provides a local contact along with an after-hours number for urgent concerns, according to Washington County.
Anyone facing immediate flooding or life-threatening conditions should call 911. For non-emergencies, residents can reach Washington County Dispatch at 503-629-0111 and contact Hillsboro Public Works at 503-615-6509 for other questions. Officials also stress basic safety: keep children and pets away from fast-moving water and never drive through flooded streets.
