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Greene County Battles Rising Waters as Creeks and Rivers Swell from Prolonged Rain and Storm

XENIA, OH – June 8, 2025 – Greene County is facing significant flood impacts today, as local creeks and rivers, already engorged from a week of persistent rainfall, overflowed their banks following a severe summer storm that swept through the region on June 6th and 7th. The confluence of saturated ground and intense downpours has transformed familiar landscapes, prompting emergency responses and road closures across the county.

The entire week leading up to the weekend had seen consistent, heavy rain, leaving Greene County's waterways, including Beaver Creek, the Little Miami River, and various smaller tributaries, at dangerously high levels. The powerful storm system that moved in Friday and intensified into Saturday delivered the critical blow, dumping unprecedented amounts of water in a short period. This rapid influx overwhelmed the already strained drainage systems and riverbeds.

In Xenia, the county seat, reports of localized street flooding and basement inundation are widespread. City crews are working to manage stormwater and clear overwhelmed drains. Communities along the Little Miami River, such as Spring Valley and parts of Beavercreek, are experiencing the most significant impacts, with floodwaters reaching homes and necessitating evacuations in some low-lying areas. The Little Miami River, a State Scenic River, has swelled far beyond its picturesque banks.

"It's just too much water, too fast," said Chief Brenda Johnson of the Greene County Emergency Management Agency (EMA). "Our ground couldn't absorb any more, and the rivers just had nowhere to go. We're seeing unprecedented levels in some of our smaller creeks."

Authorities are actively engaged in flood response. The Greene County Sheriff's Office, along with local fire departments, is conducting welfare checks and assisting with evacuations where needed. Road closures are extensive, particularly on routes crossing or running parallel to swollen waterways, making travel difficult and dangerous. Law enforcement is stressing the importance of obeying road closed signs and avoiding attempts to drive through standing water.

While initial reports indicate no fatalities, the focus remains on public safety and managing the immediate crisis. The Greene County EOC is activated, coordinating resources and disseminating vital information to residents through local media and emergency alert systems. As the weather clears, the county will begin the arduous task of assessing the full extent of the damage to infrastructure, homes, and agricultural properties from this prolonged and severe flooding event.

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