Category: News & Updates
Governor Little Signs Legislation to Strengthen Idaho’s Hazardous Materials Response
Governor Brad Little signed Senate Bill 1130 into law marking a significant investment in Idaho’s hazardous materials response capabilities. IOEM, part of the Idaho Military Division, proposed this increased funding to ensure hazmat teams are properly equipped to serve a growing Idaho.
Passed by the Idaho Legislature in March, the bill allocates $8.6 million from the State Emergency Relief Fund to IMD’s Miscellaneous Revenue Fund to support regional hazardous material response teams. These teams are an important component of Idaho’s emergency response framework, assisting communities with hazardous substance incidents statewide.
Under the Idaho Hazardous Substance Response Act (Title 39, Chapter 71), IOEM is tasked with establishing and maintaining regional hazardous material response teams, which are hosted by local fire departments that voluntarily respond beyond their jurisdictions. While the cost of incident response is reimbursed through the deficiency warrant process, funding for maintaining response capabilities has been lacking in recent years. Much of the team’s core equipment purchases date back 20 years ago and have exceeded their useful life.
This appropriation addresses that long-standing gap and ensures Idaho’s response infrastructure is aligned with current and future safety standards and operational demands.
IOEM joined Governor Little, local fire teams, and IMD leadership for the official bill signing on Monday, April 14.
Power Outage Preparedness and Safety
Don’t get left in the dark during a power outage! A power outage happens when either partial or total loss of the electrical power supply. Triggering factors could be natural hazards, equipment failure, high energy demand, planned outages and more.
Planned or unexpected, power outages can last for days or longer, disrupting resources like communications, water, transportation, stores, and more. This may impact needs such as lighting, heating, cooling, communication, food and medicine refrigeration, cooking and medical equipment.
Idaho Office of Emergency Management encourages everyone to plan now to have what you need and to know how to stay safe.
Be Prepared in Advance
- Gather enough supplies to last for several days, including non-perishable food, water for household members, pets, and livestock, medications, batteries, flashlights, and car cell phone chargers.
- Be sure your utility provider has your current contact information for notifications. Update your account and contact information online regularly.
- Keep cell phones charged and consider a car charger for emergencies.
- Ensure you have a plan for livestock water needs if well pumps lose power.
- Consider plans to relocate with a family or friend, especially those with medical conditions or who have medication and medical equipment that requires electricity.
- Customers who rely on electricity to store medication or operate medical equipment at home should enroll in their electrical provider’s Medical Certificate Program, if available.
- Consider a backup generator for essential power needs.
- Plan for watering livestock if well pumps are without power.
- Check with local officials about heating and cooling locations open near you.
During a Power Outage
- Stay clear of downed power lines and anything nearby.
- Keep away from fire personnel and utility crews working to restore service.
- Use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns. Avoid candles and other potential fire hazards.
- Turn off lights and disconnect appliances except for the refrigerator and freezer to prevent a surge when power is restored.
- Keep one light on to indicate when power returns.
- If you have a generator, use it carefully and safely. Only use it outdoors and do not use it near windows, or vents to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Check on elderly neighbors or individuals with special needs to make sure they are safe and taken care of.
- Call your electricity service provider to report an outage, not 911.
Stay Informed
- Contact your electricity provider or log in to your account to make sure your contact information is current for receiving alerts and messages.
- Be sure to follow and monitor your electricity provider’s social media accounts as well.
By taking these steps, you can help ensure your safety and resilience during power outages. Stay prepared and stay informed to protect yourself, your family, and your community.
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:
Businesses Impacted by U.S. Highway 95 Closure may be Eligible for Assistance
Businesses Impacted by U.S. Highway 95 Closure may be Eligible for Assistance
BOISE – Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) is gathering information from non-farm small businesses and non-profit organizations whose operations were disrupted by the March 16 closure of U.S. Highway 95 between Council and New Meadows due to a landslide. This information will help determine whether impacted entities may be eligible for disaster assistance through low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
Heavy rainfall on March 16 triggered a landslide that caused several hundred feet of roadway shoulder to give way, forcing the highway’s closure. Since then, the Idaho Transportation Department has been working to safely restore access. The highway is expected to reopen in early May once repairs are completed. In the meantime, drivers are encouraged to use State Highway 55 as an alternate route.
IOEM is in close coordination with the SBA to evaluate the potential for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Program. If approved following a disaster declaration request by Governor Brad Little, the program would make low-interest loans available to qualifying small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, and most private non-profit organizations. These loans are intended to help cover ordinary and necessary financial obligations that cannot be met due to the disruption caused by the closure.
To request the declaration, the State of Idaho will need five or more qualifying EIDL worksheets from small businesses impacted by the closure. Businesses that have experienced economic losses, whether actual or estimated due to the ongoing closure, are encouraged to submit a worksheet, even if they do not intend to apply for a loan. This information is critical to demonstrate the extent of the economic impact and determine eligibility for federal assistance.
The worksheet may be found on IOEM’s website at ioem.idaho.gov/SBA. Forms can be downloaded and sent by email to jdick@imd.idaho.gov, by fax to 208.422.3044, or mailed directly to:
ATTN: Jarod Dick
4040 Guard St., Bldg. 600
Boise, ID 83705
Please note the EIDL worksheet is not a loan application; it is intended for businesses to report losses so a declaration request may be considered.
Farms and ranches are not eligible for the SBA program.
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:
- Making an emergency plan
- Building an emergency supply kit
- Staying informed through alerts and trusted news sources
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.
Governor Brad Little Issues a Disaster Declaration to Prevent Severe Flooding in Kootenai County
Governor Brad Little Issues a Disaster Declaration to Prevent Severe Flooding in Kootenai County
Governor Brad Little Recognizes March 16 – 22 as Flood Awareness Week
Governor Brad Little Recognizes March 16 – 22 as Flood Awareness Week
Idaho Office of Emergency Management urges Idahoans to take proactive steps, including flood insurance, to mitigate the dangers of annual flooding.
BOISE, ID – As warming temperatures signal the arrival of spring, Governor Brad Little has proclaimed March 16 – 22, 2025, as Flood Awareness Week in Idaho. The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) is joining the annual observance to remind Idahoans of the importance of flood preparedness and awareness, especially as spring snowmelt and seasonal rains increase the risk of flooding across the state.
“Flooding can happen without warning and faster than many people realize,” said IOEM Bureau Chief Ben Roeber. “Idaho has a history of annual flooding. As weather events are frequent and unpredictable it’s important for Idahoans to stay prepared for these risks.”
Major floods have historically occurred in Idaho every one to two years and are considered the most serious and costly natural hazard affecting the state. Since 2018, Idaho has experienced 14 significant flood events, and two federal declarations related to floods – the most recent being the April 2024 severe storm that brought flooding and landslides to Idaho, Lewis, and Shoshone counties worth an estimated $6.6 million in damages.
With flooding posing a consistent threat across the state, IOEM plays an important role in addressing these risks by collaborating with local, county, state, and federal partners to implement effective flood mitigation strategies. These efforts focus on reducing the impacts of flooding through proactive planning, infrastructure improvements, and public education.
A key part of IOEM’s efforts is educating the public on how to stay safe during flood events. Flooding is the leading cause of severe weather-related deaths each year in the United States. To stay safe during flood events, IOEM urges Idahoans to follow these basic safety guidelines:
- Never drive through flooded roadways, even if it looks shallow. Just a few inches of fast-moving water can wash away a heavy truck. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
- Stay informed by monitoring local officials’ websites and social media pages, such as the National Weather Service or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, for up-to-date weather information.
- If flooding happens, get to higher ground fast.
- Respect and adhere to any barriers or warnings issued by law enforcement.
- Always have an emergency kit in your home and your vehicle in case you need to evacuate to higher ground quickly.
IOEM has created a list of tips and resources about flood preparedness and safety.
In addition to providing resources and safety tips, IOEM continues its partnership with the Idaho Silver Jackets, an interagency flood risk management team, to educate the public on ways to reduce the impacts of flooding. The Idaho Silver Jackets focus on developing comprehensive solutions to flood hazard challenges while promoting flood risk communication.
“With Idaho’s growing population, many residents may not be aware of their flood risk,” said Idaho Silver Jackets Coordinator Russel Lodge. “I encourage everyone to explore floodplain maps, develop emergency plans, and always consider flood risks, especially when traveling or in unfamiliar areas.”
Given the recurring threat of flooding and its potential for loss of life and significant economic impact, Flood Awareness Week also aims to raise awareness of securing flood insurance for properties. FEMA ranks flooding among the most common and costly natural disasters, with just one inch of water capable of inflicting up to $25,000 in damage to a home.
Whether flooding is from the flowing waters of rivers, rainfall, or snowmelt, understanding your flood risk is important. IOEM encourages homeowners, renters, and business owners to consider flood insurance as protection against potential damage.
For more information and flood preparation resources, please visit www.floodsmart.gov.
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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is part of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The women and men of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.
Staying Safe During Floods
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
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:
- Monitor Weather Forecasts: Stay updated on conditions by checking trusted sources like weather.gov.
- Adjust Schedules: Avoid outdoor activities during the coldest parts of the day, typically early morning.
- 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.
- Dress for the Weather: Wear multiple layers, including a hat, gloves, and insulated boots. Mittens provide better warmth than gloves.
- 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:
- National Weather Service: Cold Weather Safety
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention: Preventing Frostbite
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention: Preventing Hypothermia
- IOEM: Idaho Winter Weather Preparedness
Idaho Office of Emergency Management Announces New Bureau Chief
Boise, Idaho – The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is pleased to announce Ben Roeber as the new bureau chief. Roeber will succeed Director Brad Richy, who is set to retire at the end of March after more than 12 years of service.
Roeber is a seasoned emergency management and public safety professional with decades of experience. In his most recent role as Preparedness and Protection Branch chief at IOEM, Roeber oversaw the development, maintenance, and updating of state disaster plans. He was responsible for coordinating emergency plans across all sectors of government for effective resource sharing and assistance in the event of any emergency or disaster.
“Brad Richy has been steadfast in Idaho’s emergency management community, dedicating more than a decade to strengthening our state’s preparedness and response capabilities,” said Maj. Gen. Tim Donnellan who oversees IOEM as adjutant general of Idaho. “As we look to the future, Ben Roeber brings invaluable experience and leadership to IOEM. I have no doubt he will continue the agency’s mission of keeping Idahoans safe and prepared.”
Prior to IOEM, Roeber spent nearly 10 years serving as a sheriff for the Boise County Sheriff’s Office. His extensive background in emergency management and homeland security, combined with his leadership skills and experience collaborating with local, state and federal partners makes him well-suited to lead IOEM into the future.
“I am honored to take on this role and continue the important work of IOEM in protecting the people and communities of Idaho,” Roeber said. “I look forward to building on the foundation that Director Richy has established.”
Richy’s retirement marks the end of a transformative chapter for IOEM. Under his leadership, the agency responded to numerous emergencies and disasters, earning a reputation as a trusted partner in Idaho’s emergency management efforts. Richy’s dedication to strengthening preparedness and resilience has left a lasting legacy within the agency and across the state.
“Brad Richy’s leadership and dedication have strengthened Idaho’s emergency preparedness, ensuring our communities are ready to respond when disaster strikes,” said Idaho Gov. Brad Little. “I want to thank him for his years of service and welcome Ben Roeber as he steps into this critical role. I am confident that under Ben’s leadership, IOEM will continue to protect and support Idahoans in times of need.”
Roeber will serve as acting chief while Richy is on terminal leave, with a formal retirement ceremony for Richy scheduled at the end of March.
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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is part of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The women and men of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.