We've Got The County Covered
We've Got The County Covered
The Blaine County Commissioners have been working diligently with the Blaine County Road Department to assess the flooding that is occurring in all parts of the county. County Commissioners Miles G. Hutton, Chairman, Dolores Plummage and Shane Fox all signed a County Declaration of Disaster on Wednesday, April 12, 2023.
The declaration stated that heavy winter precipitation followed by rising temperatures produced rapid snow melt that resulted in flooding of the Milk River, numerous small streams and low-lying areas within Blaine County. In addition, the conditions that brought about the declaration have caused and continue cause damage to or destruction of substantial amounts of property including, but not limited to county road infrastructure.
The declaration goes on to state that recovery and restoration from the damage is essential to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the people of Blaine County. The declaration stated, "It is hereby resolved by the Board of County Commissioners of Blaine County, State of Montana that a disaster is hereby declared pursuant to Section (10-3-403) MCA and all provisions of the County Emergency Operations Plan are in effect." Copies of the resolution have been filed with the County Clerk and Recorder, County Assessor and the Montana Disaster and Emergency Services Division in Helena.
Recent snow in the Bear Paws will only add to the potential of continued flooding and reports have snowpack levels at St. Mary's at over 300%. Snowpack in parts of Canada continue to be extremely high with some locations recording levels above 400%.
The Milk River is clear of ice for the most part which will help with drainage and Blaine County Crews have been removing large branched and other material from the Milk River to help keep the flow going.
As of Thursday afternoon, water levels at Fresno Reservoir had risen to 78% of capacity after experiencing daily increases of nearly 10%. Inflow to the damn dropped slightly Thursday afternoon but with temperatures soon set to rise again the area is most likely going to see more extensive flooding.
Deputy Emergency Manager Lindsay Lowe has been actively updating road conditions, flooding reports and current conditions on the Blaine County Road Department Facebook page daily so for the most up to date information check that page out.
The Blaine County Commissioners states that all things considered it could be a lot worse and hopefully it doesn't come to that point. While there are several road closures, to the best of their knowledge all residences have a path out, though it may not be one typically used. The Commissioners noted there was one individual that was cut off for about a day and another that was isolated about a half a day but had access out by Thursday afternoon.
If you know of someone that is stuck without egress, contact the Blaine County Road Department or the County Commissioners and let them know. Crews are out working to alleviate any situation and keep the public safe. If you run into a Road Closed barrier, adhere to the sign and turn around. If one comes across a road that has become impassable or is experiencing flooding, again please contact the Blaine County Road Department.
As part of the Disaster Emergency Declaration any private property that has been damaged or loss due to flooding included in said resolution can be declared and a claim can be filed. Haley Velk with Blaine County Disaster and Emergency Services adds, "Flooding concerns remain high from snow melt runoff and additional snow and rain will add issues across Blaine County. Please watch the Blaine County Road Departments Facebook page for areas roads affected by the flooding. Monitor the national weather service for the most current and updated weather forecast and warning and advisories about area flooding. Please take the appropriate actions to prepare for rising water. Please do not walk, swim, play or drive through flood waters." She adds that the National Weather Service issues a Flood Watch and is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible. A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.
