Flood protection isn’t just about dams, levees, and floodgates—it’s about timely information, accurate forecasts, and strong partnerships. At the Miami Conservancy District (MCD), our ability to keep Southwest Ohio safe from flooding relies on close collaboration with federal partners, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the National Weather Service (NWS), and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
Together, we form a powerful network of people, tools, and technology that ensures our region is prepared before the water rises.
MCD depends on advanced weather and river forecast models developed by NOAA and the NWS to anticipate how much precipitation will fall—and how rivers will respond. These models are fueled by a wide array of data:
Weather balloons launched daily by NWS measure barometric pressure, temperature, and other variables to predict atmospheric patterns.
Stream gages—24 of them maintained across our region through a longstanding MCD–USGS partnership—provide real-time data on river levels. USGS contributes nearly $90,000 annually in in-kind support to keep this system running.
NOAA’s hydrologic models combine stream gage data, Doppler radar, and manual precipitation measurements to deliver accurate river forecasts.
These forecasts aren’t abstract numbers—they guide MCD’s critical decisions about when to close flood gates, activate pump stations, or mobilize staff to protect people and property.
The National Weather Service (a primary agency within NOAA) plays an especially important role in keeping Southwest Ohio prepared:
The NWS Wilmington Office provides MCD with quantitative precipitation forecasts up to 7 days in advance—a vital planning tool for both flood protection and construction projects near river channels.
The NWS Ohio River Forecast Center, also housed in Wilmington, supplies river forecasts for all MCD dams and most flood protection features, ensuring we have reliable, localized information.
During extreme weather, the NWS issues timely flood warnings that help us respond quickly and decisively.
NWS also delivers longer-term outlooks, weeks to months ahead, based on atmospheric circulation patterns. These outlooks not only guide MCD’s water management strategies but also help agricultural producers anticipate droughts or periods of heavy rainfall.
With these services, MCD can perform its mission more efficiently and cost-effectively than would be possible on our own.
When river levels rise, every minute counts. MCD staff rely on real-time data to:
Collect and analyze river level readings from all 24 stream gages.
Monitor NOAA and NWS forecasts to decide if and when to close flood gates.
Share river forecast information publicly so community members can stay informed and prepared.
This data doesn’t just support emergency response—it guides day-to-day decisions that keep our system strong and ready for the future.
From launching weather balloons to monitoring stream gages, flood forecasting in Southwest Ohio is a true team effort. The combined expertise of MCD, NOAA, NWS, and USGS ensures our communities stay safe, dry, and resilient.
When it comes to protecting lives and property, no single organization can do it alone. At MCD, we’re proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with our partners, turning data into action that benefits everyone in our region—rain or shine.
Dive into our data anytime on our Water Data Portal.
