Flood Update: Some Roads Reopen as Waters Recede in Waitsburg

Walla Walla County officials report progress in flood recovery efforts.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 5:54pm

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As of Sunday morning, Walla Walla County Public Works has reopened several roads that were previously closed due to flooding caused by recent rainfall and snowmelt. In Waitsburg, city officials report that flood waters have begun to recede, and additional rock has been placed on the Touchet River levee where it spilled over. However, some standing water remains along Highway 12 east of the bridge crossing the Touchet River.

Why it matters

The flooding in Waitsburg has caused significant disruption to the local community, with road closures and damage to infrastructure. The reopening of key roads and the receding of flood waters are important steps in the recovery process, allowing residents to regain access to essential services and begin the cleanup.

The details

According to Walla Walla County Public Works, the following roads have been reopened as of 10 a.m. Sunday: Scenic Loop Road at Mormon Grade Road, Lower Hogeye Road at Highway 12 to the County Line, and Mill Creek Road at District No. 4 Fire Station near Blue Creek Road. However, Conrad Road and Cummins Road remain closed. In Waitsburg, city staff reports that flood waters have begun to recede, and additional rock has been placed on the Touchet River levee where it spilled over. However, there is still an area of standing water along Highway 12 east of the bridge crossing the Touchet River.

  • As of 10:00 a.m. Sunday, March 15, 2026, Walla Walla County Public Works reported the road conditions.
  • Flood waters in Waitsburg have begun to recede as of Sunday, March 15, 2026.

The players

Walla Walla County Public Works

The local government agency responsible for maintaining and repairing roads and infrastructure in Walla Walla County, Washington.

Randy Hinchliffe

The City Administrator of Waitsburg, Washington, who provided updates on the flood situation in the city.

Jillian Henze

A Waitsburg City Councilmember who reported that the Waitsburg Christian Church is serving as the designated Red Cross shelter and lead on flood relief efforts.

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What they’re saying

“There is an area of standing water still present along Highway 12 east of the bridge that crosses the Touchet River.”

— Randy Hinchliffe, City Administrator

“The Waitsburg Christian Church, 604 Main Street, is the designated Red Cross shelter and the lead on flood relief. It has clothes, diapers, a full ADA bathroom with shower, cots and blankets.”

— Jillian Henze, Waitsburg City Councilmember

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This flood event has highlighted the importance of effective emergency response and disaster recovery efforts in Waitsburg, as the community works to restore access and infrastructure while providing support to those impacted by the flooding.