Category: Blog Posts

High Wind Safety

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High Wind Safety

High winds can pose serious risks in Idaho, from downed power lines to hazardous road conditions. Strong gusts can happen with little warning, making it important to know how to prepare and stay safe.

Taking simple steps ahead of time can help protect you, your loved ones, homes, and vehicles when high winds strike.

Hazards Associated with High Winds

High winds can cause considerable damage. Unsecured objects, such as lawn furniture or trash cans, can become dangerous projectiles. Strong gusts can knock over trees, large branches, and power lines, damaging buildings and endangering lives. Mobile homes and vehicles may be overturned. Extreme winds have the potential to tear roofs and walls from structures.

Beyond these immediate risks, high winds can also trigger other hazards. Wildfires may ignite if power lines are damaged, while severe wind or tornado events could lead to hazardous material spills, cyber disruptions, or energy shortages.

While not common, Idaho has experienced tornadoes triggered by high winds and thunderstorms.

When Do High Wind Events Occur?

Windstorms are common in Idaho and can develop during severe thunderstorms, strong weather systems, or as winds flow down mountain slopes. Sustained winds of 40–50 mph can cause isolated damage, while higher speeds can result in widespread destruction. In severe thunderstorms, straight-line winds can exceed 100 mph, turning unsecured objects into hazards and posing significant safety risks.

Mountainous areas often experience stronger winds under a wider range of conditions. Even at lower wind speeds, and gusts in valleys can be forceful enough to topple trees, damage power lines, and impact property.

NWS Wind Descriptions and Warnings

The National Weather Service (NWS) classifies wind speeds into different categories based on their strength and potential impact:

  • Strong, dangerous, or damaging: 40+ mph
  • Very windy: 30–40 mph
  • Windy: 20–30 mph
  • Breezy, brisk, or blustery: 15–25 mph
  • Light wind: 0–5 mph

To help the public stay informed, NWS issues wind alerts when conditions become hazardous:

  • Wind Advisory: Issued when sustained winds reach 30–39 mph and/or gusts between 45–57 mph below 7,000 feet, not associated with thunderstorms (issued for Snake Plain only).
  • High Wind Watch: Issued when there is potential for sustained winds over 40 mph and/or gusts over 58 mph.
  • High Wind Warning: Issued when sustained winds exceed 40 mph and/or gusts surpass 58 mph for at least one hour, not associated with thunderstorms.
Prepare Before a High Wind Event
  • Trim tree branches away from your house and power lines.
  • Make a list of outdoor items to tie down or put away to prevent them from blowing away or damaging property. When the NWS issues a high wind or severe thunderstorm watch, secure these items immediately.
  • Identify a sturdy building at home, work, school, or any frequent locations where you can seek shelter quickly if a warning is issued.
  • Make sure your household has an emergency plan in place, including evacuation routes and a communication strategy.
  • Update your emergency kit with enough food and water to last several days for everyone in your household.
  • Stay informed by signing up for alerts, tuning into emergency broadcasts and weather updates via NOAA Weather Radio or local alerting systems, and reviewing the latest forecasts and trends on weather.gov.
How to Stay Safe During High Winds
  • Seek shelter in the safest nearby building you’ve identified—such as a safe room, storm shelter, or sturdy building.
  • If indoors, go to the basement or lowest level of the building. Then, move to a small, interior, windowless room. Stay away from glass windows and doors.
  • If you are driving, stop at a sturdy building to take shelter. Avoid parking or seeking shelter under a freeway overpass or trees. If possible, stay off the roads and avoid unnecessary travel.
  • Avoid downed power lines or anything that may be in contact with them. If you come across downed power lines, report them to your utility company immediately.
  • Continue to monitor weather and local official updates.
  • Check in on neighbors to make sure there are no injuries or significant damages.

By staying informed, taking proactive measures, and knowing what to do when high winds strike, you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property.

For more information on staying safe during high wind events, visit the following resources:

Stay Prepared for Severe Weather in Idaho

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Stay Prepared for Severe Weather in Idaho

We all know the age-old saying, “April showers bring May flowers.” With spring officially here, Idaho may experience more unpredictable – and sometimes dangerous – weather. Spring storms can bring heavy rain, hail, thunderstorms, flooding, and more. Some of these weather patterns can also lead to power outages, making preparedness essential.

The Idaho Office of Emergency Management encourages Idahoans to take steps now to stay safe and protect their loved ones when severe weather strikes.

What is Severe Weather?

Severe weather refers to atmospheric disturbances that produce hazardous conditions, including strong winds, large hail, thunderstorms, tornadoes, heavy rain, snow, freezing rain, or a combination of these elements.

  • Severe Thunderstorms: Storms that produce hail one inch or larger in diameter or wind gusts over 58 mph. Hail this size can damage vehicles, roofs, and crops, while strong winds can break large branches, knock over trees, and cause structural damage. Some severe thunderstorms can produce hail larger than softballs or winds exceeding 100 mph.
  • Hail: Solid ice that forms inside thunderstorm updrafts. Hail can damage homes, vehicles, aircraft, and crops, and can be dangerous to people and livestock.
  • High Winds: These can occur with severe thunderstorms, strong weather systems, or as winds flow down mountain slopes. Sustained winds of 40–50 mph can cause isolated damage, while higher speeds can result in widespread destruction.
  • Flooding: One of the most common and costly natural disasters, flooding can happen anywhere. Whether caused by overflowing rivers, heavy rainfall, or rapid snowmelt, even a few inches of water can cause severe damage to homes and pose serious risks to life.
  • Tornadoes: A violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes can completely destroy well-built structures, uproot trees, and turn objects into deadly projectiles. While rare, Idaho has experienced tornadoes triggered by high winds and thunderstorms.
How to Stay Safe During These Hazards
Thunder and Lighting Storms
  • Secure or bring in outdoor items and trim trees near your home.
  • When thunder roars, go indoors. If you see lightning or hear thunder, seek shelter inside a sturdy building. Stay away from windows and avoid using running water or electronics.
  • If shelter isn’t available, a vehicle with a metal roof (turned off, with windows closed) is safer than remaining outside.
Heavy Rain, Flood, and Hail
  • Understand your flood risk. Visit the Idaho Map to find your flood zone.
  • Drive with caution. Slow down to avoid hydroplaning or sliding on hail-covered streets.
  • Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Never drive through flooded roads – just six inches of water can stall a car, and one foot can carry it away.
  • Follow official instructions. Evacuate if directed and obey road closures and caution signs.
High Winds
  • Seek shelter in a safe, sturdy building and stay away from windows and doors.
  • If driving, stop at a safe location. Do not park under overpasses, trees, or power lines.
  • Avoid downed power lines and anything that may be in contact with them.
Tornadoes
  • The safest place during a tornado is a basement. If unavailable, go to the lowest floor in a small interior room, such as a closet or bathroom, away from windows.
  • Protect yourself by covering your head and neck with a mattress or sturdy object.
  • If caught outside, do not try to outrun a tornado. Instead, lie in a ditch or culvert and cover your head.
Being Prepared Before a Severe Storm Strikes

Severe weather can develop quickly, but taking small steps now can make a big difference later.
Start with:

Preparation is protection. Stay connected with IOEM on Facebook and X (Twitter) for up-to-date information, resources, and safety tips year-round. You can also stay up to date on current weather forecasts, including situations where severe weather is forecast, by visiting weather.gov.

Staying Safe During Floods

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Flood Safety

Flooding is one of the most common and costly natural disasters – and it can happen anywhere. Whether it is caused by overflowing rivers, heavy rainfall, or rapid snowmelt, even a few inches of water can cause significant damage to homes and pose serious risks to lives.

Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) encourages all Idahoans to take proactive steps to protect themselves, their loved ones, and their property before, during, and after a flood.

Before a Flood

Floods can develop gradually or strike without warning. Flash floods are especially dangerous due to their sudden onset and swift-moving waters. Being prepared can save your life and give you peace of mind.

  • Know Your Risk: Review local flood maps on the Idaho Map and stay informed about flood-prone areas in your community.
  • Sign Up for Alerts: Stay informed with flood watches and warnings from the National Weather Service (NWS). Sign up for emergency alerts through the Integrated Public Alert & Warning System (IPAWS), Idaho State Alert and Warning System (ISAWS), and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA). Follow local emergency management agencies and NWS on social media for real-time updates. Be sure to also tune into and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio
  • Have an Emergency Plan: Make sure your household has a plan in place, including evacuation routes and a communication strategy.
  • Prepare an Emergency Kit: Stock up on essentials such as non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and important documents in a waterproof container.
  • Protect Your Home: Elevate electrical appliances and store valuables in waterproof containers to minimize flood damage.
  • Purchase Flood Insurance: Standard homeowner’s insurance typically does not cover flood damage. Protect your property by investing in a policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Knowing the difference between the different flood alerts issued by NWS can help you take appropriate action when necessary.

  • Flood Advisory: Flooding is possible but not expected to be severe. While it may cause inconvenience, caution is still advised to prevent potential threats to life and property.
  • Flood Watch: Conditions are favorable for flooding. Stay alert, monitor weather updates, and be ready to act if conditions worsen.
  • Flood Warning: Flooding is either occurring or imminent. Take immediate precautions, move to higher ground if necessary, and follow official instructions.
  • Flash Flood Warning: A flash flood is imminent or already occurring. If you are in a flood-prone area, move immediately to higher ground. Flash floods develop rapidly, often within minutes or hours.
During a Flood

Floodwaters can rise quickly and create dangerous conditions. Knowing what to do during a flood can help keep you safe.

  • Follow evacuation orders: Listen to instructions from local authorities and emergency responders.
  • Find Higher Ground: If flooding is imminent, move to higher ground immediately. If evacuation orders are issued, follow them without delay.
  • Turn Around, Don’t Drown: Never walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters. Just six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet, and one foot of water can carry away a vehicle.
  • Avoid Bridges Over Fast-Moving Water: Floodwaters can quickly erode bridge foundations, making them unstable and dangerous.
  • Stay informed: Tune into emergency broadcasts and weather updates whether that is through NOAA Weather Radio, or local alerting systems.
  • Electrical Safety: If water is rising inside your home, turn off electricity at the breaker but only if it is safe to do so. Never enter any room or basement where water is covering electrical outlets or submerging cords.
After a Flood

Floodwaters can leave behind devastation and hidden dangers. Taking precautions after a flood can help keep you safe.

  • Wait for All Clear: You are encouraged not to return home until local authorities say it is safe.
  • Listen to Road Closures and Cautionary Signs: Road closure and other cautionary signs are put in place for your safety. Pay attention to them!
  • Avoid Contaminated Water: Floodwaters can be contaminated with chemicals, sewage, and debris. Stay out of standing water to prevent illness and injury.
  • Inspect with Caution: Check for structural damage before entering buildings. If you smell gas, see electrical hazards, or suspect damage, leave immediately and contact emergency services.
  • Clean Up Safely: Wear protective gear like gloves and boots when cleaning up flood damage. Disinfect surfaces to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
  • Help Your Community: The road to recovery after a flood is a collective effort. Checking in on neighbors and supporting local relief efforts can make a significant difference.

Floods can occur with little warning, but understanding your risk, being prepared, and staying informed can help ensure the safety of you and your loved ones during and after the storm.

For more information on preparing before a flooding event, visit the following resources:

Staying Safe During Extreme Cold

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As extreme cold temperatures are forecasted to impact areas around Idaho this week, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) urges all Idahoans to take actions to keep you and your loved ones safe.

According to the National Weather Service, arctic air combined with brisk winds can create dangerously low wind chill values, posing risks of frostbite and hypothermia within minutes of exposure. Protect yourself, your family, and even your plants and animals with these important cold-weather safety tips.

Cold Weather Alerts to Know

The NWS issues three different cold weather alerts. Stay aware of weather alerts to adjust your plans and prepare accordingly:

  • Extreme Cold Warning: Dangerously cold temperatures or wind chills are occurring or expected. Avoid going outside; if you must, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and let someone know your destination and expected return time.
  • Extreme Cold Watch: Dangerously cold conditions are possible. Adjust plans to avoid outdoor exposure and prepare your vehicle with a winter survival kit.
  • Cold Weather Advisory: Cold air temperatures or wind chills are expected but not at extreme levels. Dress warmly and limit time outdoors.
Risks of Extreme Cold

Extreme cold does not just mean discomfort– it can pose serious health risks such as:

  • Frostbite: Frostbite can occur quickly on exposed skin, especially on extremities like fingers, toes, ears, and nose. Redness, numbness, or waxy, grayish-yellow skin are early signs. If you suspect frostbite, move indoors immediately and warm the affected areas with warm water or body heat– never hot water or radiant heat.
  • Hypothermia: Hypothermia can occur when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing the core body temperature to drop below 95°F. Symptoms include shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and drowsiness. Seek medical attention immediately if you or someone you know is experiencing these signs.
Prepare for Extreme Cold

The key to staying safe is preparation. Here’s how you can get ready:

  1. Monitor Weather Forecasts: Stay updated on conditions by checking trusted sources like weather.gov.
  2. Adjust Schedules: Avoid outdoor activities during the coldest parts of the day, typically early morning.
  3. Stock Your Vehicle: Keep your gas tank at least half full and update your winter survival kit with essentials like blankets, flashlights, water, snacks, and an ice scraper.
  4. Dress for the Weather: Wear multiple layers, including a hat, gloves, and insulated boots. Mittens provide better warmth than gloves.
  5. Look After Loved Ones: Check on neighbors, family members, and those who may be more vulnerable to extreme cold.
Protect Plants, Animals, and Property

Cold temperatures can also affect crops, pets, and your home:

  • Crops and Plants: Freezing temperatures below 32°F can harm crops and residential plants. Know the cold tolerance of your plants and take measures to protect them during frost or freezing conditions.
  • Pets and Livestock: Make sure animals have shelter, unfrozen water, and enough food to sustain energy during cold weather.
  • Pipes and Property: Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing and have your heating systems checked before temperatures drop.

Idaho winters can be harsh, but with preparation and awareness, you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

Stay warm, stay informed, and stay safe!

For additional information, check out some of these resources:

 

Protect Your Identity: 2025 Identity Theft Awareness Week

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Identity theft can affect anyone, anywhere, and in today’s digital age, the risks are greater than ever. In recognition of Identity Theft Awareness Week (January 27–31, 2025), the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) encourages everyone to take proactive steps to safeguard their personal information. This annual event focuses on strengthening individuals with tips to protect themselves, recover from identity theft, and recognize scams before they cause harm.

Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information—like your Social Security number or credit card details—for fraud or theft. In 2023, nearly 15,000 Idahoans reported fraud, with more than $40 million lost, according to the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) Sentinel Network report. Identity theft was one of the top complaints from Idaho residents.

To help prevent identity theft and cybercriminals from stealing your most valuable personal information, IOEM shares cybersecurity tips to keep in mind – not just this week, but year-round.

  1. Keep Devices Updated: Regularly update your devices and enable automatic updates to address security vulnerabilities.
  2. Use Strong Passwords: Create long, unique passwords or passphrases for every account. Avoid using easily guessed information like birthdays or names.
  3. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer of security by using MFA wherever possible.
  4. Beware of Scams: Be cautious with emails, texts, or calls from unknown senders. Verify the source before clicking on links or providing information.
  5. Secure Public Wi-Fi Connections: Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when accessing sensitive accounts on public networks.
  6. Limit Data Sharing: Review privacy policies and avoid oversharing personal details online or on social media.

If you suspect identity theft, visit IdentityTheft.gov, the federal government’s resource to report and recover from identity theft. The site provides a personalized recovery plan for more than 30 types of identity theft and guidance on protecting yourself from future incidents.

This year, the FTC and its partners are hosting free podcasts, webinars, Facebook Live interviews, and other events tailored to different audiences, including servicemembers, older adults, young adults, and business owners. Topics range from avoiding identity theft to recovering if it happens to you.

Visit consumer.ftc.gov/idtheftweek for a full schedule and links to join.

As we observe Identity Theft Awareness Week, IOEM encourages everyone to stay informed and continue taking steps to protect themselves and our loved ones throughout the year. For more details, visit consumer.ftc.gov/idtheftweek.

Driving Safely in Fog

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Fog can transform familiar roads into a challenging and hazardous environment for drivers. Dense fog, especially common in the fall and early winter, significantly reduces visibility and increases the risk of accidents. Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) encourages everyone to understand fog and how to handle conditions to stay safe on the road.

Fog forms when air cools rapidly overnight under clear skies and with sufficient moisture. This often occurs in valleys due to a process called cold air drainage, where cooler air sinks and collects at lower elevations. Dense fog is especially hazardous during early morning hours when visibility is at its lowest.

Driving in foggy conditions can be unpredictable. One moment your view might be clear, and the next you could find yourself in thick, blinding fog. This rapid change demands caution and preparation.

Advisory Alerts to Know

The National Weather Service issues two types of fog advisories to help you prepare:

  • Dense Fog Advisory:
    Issued when widespread dense fog reduces visibility to a quarter-mile or less, making travel hazardous.
  • Freezing Fog Advisory:
    Issued when fog forms at or below freezing temperatures, creating icy road conditions. The tiny liquid droplets in the fog can freeze instantly upon contact with surfaces, increasing the risk of accidents.
Tips for Driving in Fog
  1. Slow Down
    Fog can make it difficult to judge distance and speed. Reduce your speed and allow extra time to reach your destination.
  2. Use Low-Beam Headlights
    Low-beam headlights improve your visibility and make your vehicle more noticeable to others. Avoid using high beams, as they can reflect off the fog and worsen visibility. If your vehicle has fog lights, use them for added safety.
  3. Increase Following Distance
    Maintain a larger gap between you and the vehicle ahead. This extra distance gives you more time to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic.
  4. Stay in Your Lane
    Use road markings as a guide. Keep your focus on the painted lines to make sure you stay in the proper lane.
  5. Avoid Stopping on the Road
    If fog becomes so dense that you can’t see, it’s safer to pull off the road. Follow these steps:
    • Turn on your hazard lights.
    • Move to a safe location, such as a parking lot or driveway, if possible.
    • If stopping on the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, turn off all lights except your hazard lights, and set the emergency brake. Avoid keeping your foot on the brake pedal to prevent other drivers from mistaking your vehicle for one that’s moving.

When the fog rolls in, slow down, stay focused, and prioritize safety. It’s always better to arrive late than not at all.

For additional information about fog safety, check out some of these resources:

How Idahoans Can Help Those Affected by Southern California Fires

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The fires raging across Southern California have left devastation in their wake, displacing families, destroying homes, and challenging communities to rebuild. In moments like these, it’s natural to want to help—but knowing how to do so effectively is just as important. The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) stands with those impacted and offers ways for Idahoans to make a meaningful difference.

How Can I Help?

If you’re looking to volunteer your time or donate to those affected by the Los Angeles fires, it’s important to rely on trusted sources and avoid potential scams. Here are some ways to support:

Volunteer

Volunteer by signing up for CaliforniansForAll.ca.gov or call 2-1-1. Find volunteer opportunities across the state of California and new ways to get involved.

Please do not self-deploy to impacted areas as first responders need roads to remain clear and residents to stay safe. Unplanned volunteers can interfere with response efforts.

Donate

Cash donations are the fastest and most effective way to help. They give relief organizations the flexibility to provide exactly what’s needed, when it’s needed. Visit PhilanthropyCA.org to support immediate disaster relief and long-term recovery efforts.

Philanthropy California is a partner of the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) who thoroughly vets the funds, resources and events listed on their site.

Spread the Word

Help raise awareness about available resources and ways to assist by sharing information.  California has toolkits available to make it easy to share updates with your network.

Additional Information and Resources

Resolve to Be Ready: A New Year’s Commitment to Preparedness

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As we step into the New Year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what matters most– keeping ourselves and our loved ones safe. Emergencies can happen at any time, and being prepared is one of the most important resolutions you can make. This year, resolve to take simple steps toward being ready for the unexpected.

  1. Create Your Emergency Plan

Having a plan in place helps make sure you and your loved ones know what to do during a crisis.

    • Sit down with your family to discuss how you’ll communicate during emergencies, where you’ll meet, and how you’ll respond to specific situations like fires, floods, or power outages.
    • Use our guide to create an emergency plan tailored to your household’s needs.
  1. Build Your Emergency Kit

Make it a goal this year to assemble or refresh your emergency kit. Start small– building a kit doesn’t have to be done all at once.

    • Essentials to include: Water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, medications, important documents, and pet supplies.
    • Aim for a “two weeks ready” kit with enough supplies to sustain your household for at least 14 days.
    • Need ideas? Check out our emergency kit checklist for a detailed breakdown.
  1. Stay Informed

Being informed before, during, and after an emergency is key to keeping safe.

    • Sign up for local emergency alerts, download weather apps, and follow trusted sources like your local emergency management or sheriff’s offices.
    • Know the risks specific to your area—wildfires, floods, earthquakes—and plan accordingly. Visit Staying Informed for more ways to stay up to date.
  1. Get Involved in Your Community

Prepared communities are resilient communities. Resolve to volunteer or get involved this year:

    • Join programs like Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) to learn life-saving skills.
    • Explore volunteer opportunities with organizations like the American Red Cross or Salvation Army, which play critical roles during disasters.
    • Remember, cash donations are best when supporting relief efforts—they’re quick, flexible, and effective.
    • Learn more about ways to get involved and volunteer in your community.

Preparedness doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This New Year, start with small, achievable steps. Whether it’s creating your plan, building your kit one item at a time, or sharing preparedness tips with friends and family– every action you take brings you closer to being ready.

Resolve to be ready in 2025—and encourage your loved ones to do the same. Let’s make this the year of preparedness!

Holiday Travel Safety

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The holiday season is one of the busiest travel times of the year, and with it comes a unique set of challenges—from unpredictable weather to crowded roads. Whether you’re headed to a snowy mountain getaway or celebrating closer to home, being prepared can make all the difference in ensuring your travels are safe and enjoyable. From checking the weather forecast to packing essential winter tools for your car, taking the time to prepare can help you handle the unexpected with ease.

As you gear up for your holiday journey, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) is here to share helpful tips to travel safely, responsibly, and with peace of mind.

Pack a Winter Travel Emergency Kit

Winter weather is unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to keep your car stocked with essential items. A well-prepared emergency kit can help you stay safe and comfortable in case of delays or breakdowns. Be sure to include:

  • Ice scraper and snow shovel
  • Warm gloves, blankets, and hats
  • Emergency flares or reflectors
  • Rock salt or kitty litter for tire traction
  • First aid kit
  • Extra windshield washer fluid and antifreeze
  • Non-perishable snacks and water

Before winter fully sets in, make sure your car is ready for the cold months ahead:

  • Install winter tires or chains for better traction.
  • Keep your gas tank at least half full and top off windshield washer fluid with a freeze-resistant formula.

Having these tools on hand helps you become ready for whatever winter roads may throw your way.

Stay Informed and Connected

Winter weather can change rapidly, especially in Idaho and other colder regions. Before heading out, check the weather forecast for your route and destination. Monitor conditions throughout your trip and adjust your plans as needed. Flexibility with your schedule can help you avoid risky situations, like icy roads or heavy snowstorms.

It’s also important to know the weather and climate risks at your destination. Whether you’re visiting family in the mountains or heading to a warmer climate, take time to research potential hazards like snowstorms or flash floods and learn how to respond if they occur.

Local emergency management offices may be able to help identify winter hazards specific to your area and provide updates on upcoming storms or power outages. It may be helpful to also find out from local emergency managers how citizens can and will be notified in case of a disaster.

Staying informed means staying connected. Keep your phone charged, and bring a car charger or portable power bank for emergencies. Sign up for local weather alerts to stay updated on road closures and severe weather warnings. Share your travel plans with a trusted friend or family member so someone knows your route and can check in if needed.

  • Sign Up for Alerts: Idaho offers several ways to stay connected, including the Integrated Public Alert & Warning System (IPAWS), Idaho State Alert and Warning System (ISAWS), and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA).
  • Follow Local Services: IOEM also encourages Idahoans to make sure they’re signed up for these services and following sheriff’s offices, and local and state emergency management offices on social media for latest power outages, road closures, and weather updates.
  • Know What is Happening on the Roads: Check road conditions and weather forecasts before heading out by visiting 511.idaho.gov.

Take It Slow and Drive Safely

Rushing to your destination might feel tempting, but winter driving conditions demand extra caution:

  • Slow down and increase your following distance to allow for longer stopping times on icy roads.
  • Turn off cruise control and be mindful of icy bridges and overpasses.
  • If visibility drops during a storm, pull over to a safe location and wait it out.
  • Give snowplows plenty of space to work—the safest place is behind them.

Celebrate Safely and Responsibly

The holidays are a time for joy and connection, but celebrations can bring distractions and risks. If you’re planning to drink, designate a sober driver or arrange for alternative transportation. Keeping safety at the forefront of your plans protects not only you but everyone on the road.

Traveling during the holidays doesn’t have to be stressful. By taking simple steps to prepare, you can focus on the joy of the season and create lasting memories with loved ones. IOEM encourages you to prioritize safety as you make your holiday plans. Wishing you safe and happy travels this holiday season!

Debris Flows and Flash Floods: What You Need to Know After Wildfires

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Wildfires can dramatically change the landscape around us, leaving behind burn scars that oftentimes go unnoticed until it’s too late. These burn scars are at high risk of debris flows and flash floods – both dangerous events that can happen with little warning, particularly after intense rainfall. The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) believes understanding these risks are crucial for staying safe if you live, work, or travel near areas impacted by recent fires.

What is a Debris Flow?

According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Boise, debris flows are a type of fast-moving, deadly landslide. They’re powerful mixtures of mud, rocks, boulders, trees, and even homes or vehicles. They sometimes are referred to as “mudslides” or “mudflows,” but debris flows are technically the most powerful and dangerous of the three. Debris flows are often triggered by intense rain following wildfires, as the rain quickly dislodges loose, unanchored soil and other debris from burned slopes.

Why Debris Flows and Flash Floods Occur in Burned Areas

Wildfires burn away vegetation and cause a chemical reaction in the soil, leading to a hardened, water-resistant layer. Known as “hydrophobic soil,” this layer prevents rain from soaking into the ground, causing it to run off quickly instead. Without vegetation to hold the soil in place, the runoff flows faster and gains power as it heads downhill, increasing the risk of flash flooding and debris flows.

  1. Intense Rainfall: Debris flows often occur with intense bursts of rain—just half an inch in an hour can trigger one. These events don’t require prolonged rainfall, just a sudden, heavy downpour.
  2. Rapid Erosion: After a fire, loose rocks, soil, and other debris are left without vegetation to stabilize them, which increases erosion and contributes to fast-moving flows.
  3. Flash Flood Hazards: In burn areas, flash flooding can happen even in places that haven’t previously experienced flooding. Roads, trails, and streams may flood suddenly, creating hazards for motorists, pedestrians, and structures.

Why Are Debris Flows So Dangerous?

Debris flows and flash floods are fast and unpredictable. They can move faster than a person can run and even catch up to vehicles. They also don’t always follow existing channels; a debris flow might start in a stream and then veer into neighborhoods or roads with no prior history of flooding. It is important to monitor weather and take action at the first sign of potential danger.

Tips for Preparedness

  1. Stay Informed and Alert
  • Sign up for Alerts: Enroll in local emergency alert systems such as the Idaho State Alert and Warning System receive warnings about severe weather.
  • Track the Weather: Use reliable sources, including NOAA Weather Radio, the NWS Boise website, and local sheriff’s offices and news outlets for updates.

Remember, storms can form rapidly, especially in mountainous areas, and intense rain over a burn scar can lead to flash flooding within minutes.

  1. Recognize the Warning Signs
  • Weather Patterns: Thunderstorms often build over mountains, and dark clouds indicate heavy rainfall, which may cause flooding downstream, even if the rain isn’t falling where you are.
  • Changes in Landscape: Cracks in the ground, unusual sounds, or sudden rises in stream water levels can signal that a debris flow is starting.
  1. Have a Preparedness Plan
  • Know Your Evacuation Routes: Identify safe paths to higher ground, and create multiple evacuation routes in case roads become impassable. Always have a plan for where to go if evacuation is necessary.
  • Prepare an Emergency Kit: When disaster strikes, being prepared can truly make all the difference. Having a well-stocked emergency kit can be crucial in how you and your household handle unexpected situations. Be sure to include items like:
    • Water
    • Food
    • Flashlights
    • First Aid Kits
    • Extra Clothes and Shoes
    • Battery Power or Hand Crack Radio
    • Extra Batteries
  1. Know What to Do During a Flash Flood Warning
  • Don’t Wait: If you receive a flash flood or debris flow warning, take immediate action to evacuate. These events can develop rapidly, so early action is essential.
  • Avoid Flooded Areas: Never attempt to drive or walk through floodwaters. Just six inches of water can knock you over, and as little as a foot can carry a car. Always remember, “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”

Flash flooding and debris flows are serious hazards in areas affected by wildfires. By staying informed, having an evacuation plan, and recognizing warning signs, you can protect yourself and your family from these unpredictable natural events. Stay resilient, stay safe, and remember that early preparation can make all the difference.