Heavy rain and localized flooding led to the death of a Central Point woman Sunday afternoon after she was pulled into Kane Creek while trying to clear branches from a culvert on her property, according to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff’s deputies responded to a call for a missing woman at 4:21 p.m. Sunday in the 5000 block of Kane Creek Road in rural Central Point, according to a news release Monday afternoon.

“Investigators learned the woman was attempting to clear branches from a culvert under her driveway when her waders filled with water and swift flood waters pulled her through the culvert and into nearby Kane Creek,” the release said.

Jackson County Fire District No. 3 responded with a swift water Technical Rescue Team, the sheriff’s office said.

“FD3 personnel located the woman approximately 100 yards down the creek and she was transported by Mercy Flights ambulance to a local hospital. Medics attempted lifesaving measures, but she was pronounced deceased,” the release said. “Our condolences go to her family and friends in this difficult time. Next-of-kin has been notified. Out of respect for the family’s privacy we will not be releasing the decedent’s name.”

The sheriff’s office said, “This incident is a tragic reminder of the dangers of rainstorms leading to flooding. During periods of heavy rains, stay away from flood-prone areas such as stream beds, drainage ditches, and culverts. Move to higher ground if flooding threatens your area.”

For more information on flood safety, go to: https://www.ready.gov/floods.

Jackson County was under a flood watch on Sunday that has since expired. The National Weather Service in Medford predicts periods of rain Monday and Monday night, with partly cloudy skies forecast for Tuesday but rain returning Wednesday and into the weekend.