Category: Press Releases
Flooding May ID-04 Level 1 State Declaration
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release May 9, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
IDEOC Activated To Level 1 Due to Snowmelt Flooding
State Disaster Declarations Now in Effect for 26 Idaho Counties
BOISE – The Idaho Emergency Operations Center (IDEOC) is activated to Level I to address spring flooding concerns throughout the state. Blaine, Boise, Butte, Custer, Elmore, Gooding and Lemhi counties are experiencing flooding along the Salmon, Big Lost and Big Wood Rivers, including streams and tributaries. 31 of Idaho’s 44 counties have local disaster declarations. 26 counties are part of State Disaster Declarations. Blaine County was added to a State Disaster Declaration for this most recent flooding signed Monday by Acting Governor Brad Little.
“When you have well above normal snowpack in the higher elevations, you can anticipate we will continue to face flooding in the weeks ahead,” said IOEM Deputy Chief Brad Richy. “Our primary concern continues to be safety, awareness and preparedness. We want all Idahoans and visitors to understand that flooded roadways can be treacherous. People who choose to cross flooded roadways, or recreate on fast moving flood waters, are putting not only themselves, but emergency responders at risk.” The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) continues to work closely with counties throughout the state to provide necessary resources. Sandbags have been pre-positioned around the state to assist counties with flood protection.
Idaho continues to face the residual effects of record snow that began in December 2016. Lower elevation areas of southern Idaho began dealing with catastrophic flooding in January. In March areas of north central and northern Idaho began experiencing flooding-related landslides and avalanches. This latest flooding in the Wood River Valley is a direct result of warming temperatures melting the snow pack in higher elevations. As temperatures continue to warm, experts predict the flooding will continue. Rain in areas could increase the severity of flooding.
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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women 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.
6 Inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over and adult
12 inches of rushing water can carry away a small car
2 feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles
It is never safe to drive or walk or boat through flood waters
TURN AROUND DON’T DROWN
EHRF Application Information on IOEM Website
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release May 3, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
Idaho State, Local, and Private Nonprofits Can Apply for Emergency Relief Funding For Road Repair
BOISE – The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) is accepting applications for the competitive funding of projects through the Emergency Relief Fund.
The eligible projects that will be considered must exist within a county that suffered road and bridge damage as a result of extreme weather, including heavy snow, flooding and landslides that began in December 2016 and continue. Those eligible projects include roads, bridges, surfaces, bases, shoulders, ditches, drainage structures like culverts, low water crossings, decking, guard rails, girders, pavement, abutments, piers, slope protection, approaches, lighting, sidewalks and signs.
Information on how to apply, including deadlines, eligible projects, and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS) can be found on the IOEM website www.IOEM.Idaho.gov
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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women 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.
Applicant Briefings Scheduled
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release May 1, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
IOEM to Hold Applicant Briefings in 11 Counties Designated for FEMA Public Assistance Grants
The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are working together to expedite Public Assistance grants to eligible public entities and certain private nonprofit organizations affected by severe storms and flooding Feb. 5-27, 2017.
IOEM emergency management specialists, with support from FEMA, will begin holding Applicant Briefings this week as a first step in getting assistance dollars to eligible applicants in the 11 counties designated for assistance in President Trump’s April 21 disaster declaration. The Applicant Briefings will include an overview of FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), since additional grants will be available to Idaho under that program as a result of the disaster declaration.
Applicant Briefings are scheduled as follows:
- May 3: Elmore County, 1 p.m., 2255 East 8th North, Mountain Home
- May 4: Washington County, 10 a.m., 256 East Court St., Weiser
- May 9: Gooding County, 9 a.m., 624 Main St., Gooding
- May 9: Lincoln County, 1 p.m., Lincoln County Community Center, 201 South Beverly St., Shoshone
- May 10: Minidoka County, 9 a.m., Wilson Theatre, 610 Fremont St., Rupert
- May 10: Cassia County, 1 p.m., Location TBD
- May 11: Jerome County, 9 a.m., 2151 South Tiger Drive, Jerome
- May 11: Twin Falls County, 1 p.m., Twin Falls Highway District Conference Room, 2620 Kimberly Rd., Twin Falls
- May 17: Franklin County, 1 p.m., Location TBD
- May 18: Jefferson County, 3 p.m., 206 N. Yellowstone Hwy, Rigby
- May 18: Bingham County, 9 a.m., 501 N. Maple, Sheriff’s Conference Room, Blackfoot
Potential applicants have until May 21, 2017, to file a Request for Public Assistance (RPA) with IOEM to initiate a claim under the disaster declaration.
Under the PA and HMGP programs, FEMA reimburses applicants for at least 75 percent of their eligible expenses, while the other 25 percent is the nonfederal share. The federal portion is paid directly to the state, which then makes disbursements to the local and tribal jurisdictions and organizations that incurred costs.
Under the HMGP program, FEMA and the state of Idaho may provide supplemental financial assistance to state agencies, local and tribal governments and certain private nonprofit organizations to reduce vulnerability to future disasters and promote community resilience.
State disaster recovery information is available on the IOEM website at https://ioem.idaho.gov. More information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.
More information about hazard mitigation is available at www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigationgrant-program.
Additional information on the federal role in this disaster recovery mission is available at the FEMA disaster-specific website at www.fema.gov/disaster/4310.
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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women 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.
FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
Counties Added To State Declaration
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release March 31, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
Additional Counties Added to State Declaration for Flooding, Landslides, Avalanches
BOISE – Ada, Idaho, Lewis and Valley Counties have all been recently added to a state declaration signed by Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter. Eleven Idaho counties are now included in the declaration: Ada, Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Clearwater, Idaho, Kootenai, Latah, Lewis, Shoshone, and Valley Counties. These counties, as well as others around the state, continue to combat flooding caused by snowmelt and ongoing precipitation. Landslides, avalanches, and mudslides also continue to cause extensive damage as soils become more saturated.
A total of 28 Idaho counties currently have local declarations related to either snowfall or flooding-related events.
The Idaho Emergency Operations Center (IDEOC) remains activated at Heightened Awareness due to widespread destruction from spring flooding and landslides. For a daily statewide synopsis of issues relating to current state declarations, please visit the IOEM website. https://ioem.idaho.gov/WebFiles/SituationReports/websitrep.pdf
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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women 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.
High water can cause significant hazards. Residents are reminded to avoid low-water crossings and not attempt to cross water-covered roads.
“Turn Around Don’t’ Drown.”
SBA Loans News Release
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release March 28, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
Businesses Encouraged to Report Impacts of Winter Flooding
BOISE – The State of Idaho is seeking information from small, non-agricultural businesses in Bingham, Cassia, Elmore, Franklin, Gooding, Jefferson, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, Twin Falls, and Washington Counties whose operations and ability to conduct business were disrupted by the extraordinary flooding beginning February 5, 2017 through March 3, 2017. This information will determine whether impacted businesses would be eligible for disaster assistance in the form of low interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
The unprecedented flooding that occurred caused widespread destruction including severe damage to local and state infrastructure creating treacherous travel conditions and disruption to ordinary business functions throughout the area. The flood event led to a State Disaster Declaration signed by Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter February 10, 2017.
The State of Idaho is requesting small businesses located in the eleven counties to complete the SBA Economic Injury Worksheet. Businesses impacted by the flooding who may not elect to receive the low interest loans are still encouraged to submit worksheets so the full impact of the disaster to the area can be determined.
The worksheet may be found on the Idaho Commerce website at https://commerce.idaho.gov (Scroll to Popular Downloads). Forms can be downloaded and sent by fax to 208.422.3044, by email to jdick@imd.idaho.gov or mailed directly to:
Jarod Dick
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
4040 W. Guard St.; Bldg 600
Boise, ID 83705
If approved, the assistance will be in the form of direct low interest loans from the SBA. Businesses located in contiguous counties, or counties within the region that provide goods and services to businesses in the eleven counties may have experienced significant economic impact and are also encouraged to submit worksheets as soon as possible.
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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women 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.
State Disaster Declaration for Seven Idaho counties
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release March 21, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
Flooding, Landslides, Avalanches Leads to State Disaster Declarations for Seven Idaho Counties
BOISE – Idaho Governor C. L. “Butch” Otter has signed State Disaster Declarations for seven north central and northern Idaho counties currently managing flooding-related issues associated with snowmelt and ongoing precipitation. Residents in Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Clearwater, Kootenai, Latah and Shoshone counties are preparing for, or responding to, flooding, landslides and avalanches.
Water levels along the Coeur d’ Alene River, the St. Joe River, and numerous other bodies of water within each of the counties in the state declaration, have risen dramatically, causing widespread flooding, mudslides, water over roads, damaged levees and flooding of homes and basements. Two homes have received significant damage due to mudslides.
The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) continues working with the US Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) and our state agency partners to ensure that requests for assistance from the counties affected are met quickly and efficiently.
A total of 25 Idaho counties currently have local declarations related to either snowfall or flooding-related events.
The Idaho Emergency Operations Center (IDEOC) remains activated at Heightened Awareness due to widespread spring flooding destruction. For a daily statewide synopsis of issues relating to this latest state declaration, please visit the IOEM website. https://ioem.idaho.gov/WebFiles/SituationReports/websitrep.pdf
# # #
The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women 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.
High water can cause significant hazards. Residents are reminded to avoid low-water crossings and not attempt to cross water-covered roads.
“Turn Around Don’t’ Drown.”
PDA and Flood Safety March 2017
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release March 14, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
Preliminary Damage Assessments Underway for Winter Storms & Flooding
Idahoans encouraged to take steps now to avoid flood losses in the future during Idaho Flood Awareness Week
BOISE – Teams of local, state and federal partners are conducting joint Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDAs) this week in Idaho to survey damage caused by severe winter storms and flooding that occurred Feb. 6 – March 3. The PDAs in Bingham, Cassia, Elmore, Franklin, Gooding, Jefferson, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, Twin Falls and Washington counties will help the state compile reports to determine if federal disaster assistance will be requested. A similar PDA process has already taken place in counties affected by unprecedented snowfall.
The PDA process looks at the extent of damage, threat to public safety and health, business losses, extent of insurance coverage, damage to infrastructure, including buildings, bridges, roads, public utilities, water control systems and recreational facilities. PDAs can also identify unmet needs that may require immediate attention.
As widespread flooding continues to affect the state, now is a critical time to take action and protect your property and loved ones from hazards. Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter signed a proclamation identifying March 13-17 as Idaho Flood Awareness Week. This is especially important as eleven of Idaho’s 44 counties are currently under a State Disaster Declaration for flooding. Bingham, Cassia, Elmore, Franklin, Gooding, Jefferson, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, Twin Falls, and Washington Counties have sustained devastating and ongoing flood damages to infrastructure, industry and private property.
Rising temperatures and record snowfall indicate wet spring forecasts. Steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from flood hazards include:
- Purchasing a flood insurance policy, which can take up to 30 days to go into effect.
- Having an emergency kit and keeping your important documents in a water-tight container.
- Drivers should never attempt to cross flooded roads in a vehicle.
- Turn Around Don’t Drown. This is just as important in winter as it is in spring.
- Assess the safety of your route. Some roadways heading toward Nevada and Oregon may continue to have challenging conditions. Road condition information can be found at www.wrh.noaa.gov/wrh/travel/?wfo=boi.
- If you are traveling, make sure your vehicle is equipped with emergency supplies. A list of emergency supplies, including water, snack foods, flashlights, extra batteries, blankets and booster cables can be found at www.Ready.gov/car.
Visit www.Ready.gov/floods for more flood safety steps.
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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women 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.
Jerome County Added to State Disaster Declarations
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release February 16, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
Jerome County Added to State Disaster Declarations
Cassia, Jerome, Minidoka, Twin Falls and Washington Counties face widespread flooding destruction
BOISE – Jerome County has been added to a State Disaster signed by Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter for flooding in south central and western Idaho. The State Disaster Declaration now includes Cassia, Jerome, Minidoka, Twin Falls and Washington Counties. A State Declaration ensures that all necessary state resources are made available for recovery efforts.
More than one third of Idaho counties, a total of 19, currently have local declarations related to either winter snowfall or flooding-related events. Washington County in western Idaho is part of a state declaration for both snow and flooding. Valley County has a local declaration for mud and snow slides. The winter weather continues to cause widespread destruction to homes, businesses, infrastructure and industry. The onion, dairy, sugarbeet, cattle, and multiple other commodity sectors, in addition to food processing facilities, have sustained significant damage.
The Idaho Emergency Operations Center (IDEOC) remains activated to Heightened Awareness. The EOC is poised to elevate to a Level I or higher activation based on the forecast for additional rain this weekend. For a statewide synopsis of issues relating to the extreme winter weather please visit the IOEM website. https://ioem.idaho.gov/WebFiles/SituationReports/websitrep.pdf
High water can cause significant hazards. Residents are reminded to avoid low-water crossings and not attempt to cross water-covered roads. “Turn Around Don’t’ Drown.”
# # #
The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women 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.
Ada & Boundary Counties Included in State Disaster Declaration
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release February 9, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
Ada & Boundary Counties Included in State Disaster Declaration
BOISE – Ada and Boundary Counties have been added to a State Disaster Declaration signed by Idaho Governor C. L. “Butch” Otter. Six Idaho counties are now included in the declaration: Ada, Boundary, Canyon, Custer, Payette and Washington Counties. Record snowfall has led to depletion of snow removal resources and widespread roof collapses on both commercial structures and residences. A State Disaster Declaration ensures that all necessary state resources are made available for recovery efforts.
The Idaho Emergency Operations Center (IDEOC) remains activated at Heightened Awareness due to winter storm hazards throughout the state. In addition to the snow related damage, counties in western and eastern Idaho are now managing snowmelt related flooding issues.
# # #
The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women 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.
Snow Melt Flooding Dangers
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release February 3, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
Forecasted Snow and Rain Increase Flooding Risks
Rain on Existing Snowpack Could Cause Flooding
BOISE – Parts of Idaho may face flooding this weekend due to warming temperatures and forecasted snow and rain. Snow-melt related flooding is one of Idaho’s major hazards. Resident are encouraged to make sure there is proper drainage on their property. When possible, clearing storm drains will reduce the risk of flooding. For individuals living in areas that have experienced above normal snow accumulation the flooding danger is even more pronounced.
Several areas of the state are especially at risk in the coming days including the Weiser Basin, the Lower Treasure Valley and the Lower Snake River Plain. Important local information on flood watches, warnings and advisories are available on the National Weather Service website www.weather.gov for area-specific forecasts.
Parents should make sure children stay clear of storm drains and fast moving water. Flooding dangers also exist due to debris in canals, drainage ditches, swales and creeks. Citizens are encouraged to clear these conveyances or call their local public works departments or municipal government to report the debris for clearing.
SAFETY TIPS FOR TRAVELERS:
- Drivers should never attempt to cross flooded roads in a vehicle. Turn Around Don’t Drown. This is just as important in winter as it is in spring.
- Assess the safety of your route. Some roadways heading toward Nevada and Oregon may continue to have challenging conditions. Road condition information can be found at https://www.wrh.noaa.gov/wrh/travel/?wfo=boi
- If you are traveling, make sure your vehicle is equipped with emergency supplies. A list of emergency supplies, including water, snack foods, flashlights, extra batteries, blankets and booster cables can be found at https://www.ready.gov/car
The Idaho Emergency Operations Center (IDEOC) remains activated to Heightened Awareness. The activation comes in response to extreme cold weather and record snowfall in parts of Idaho that began in late December and have continued. The Governor has declared a State disaster emergency, in addition to local declarations, for Canyon, Custer, Payette and
Washington Counties. County declarations are in place for Ada, Adams, and Owyhee Counties.
# # #
The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The men and women 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.