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.