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

 

Original Release