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.

 

Original Release