Governor declares Flood Awareness Week

Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter proclaimed this week (March 18-22) to be Flood Awareness Week. In conjunction with that declaration, the Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security (BHS) encourages Idahoans to become informed about flood hazards and to take steps to be prepared for them.

Floods are among the most costly natural disasters in Idaho. Three counties sustained flood damage in 2012 significant enough to warrant a governor’s disaster declaration. In addition, the Boise River saw sustained flows above flood stage through Ada County. 
 
The threat of spring floods this year is average in most regions of Idaho. However, the snow accumulation season is not over, and additional precipitation in the mountains can add to the snowpack. The rate at which this snowpack melts ultimately will determine if and when floods occur this spring. 

In addition, the widespread areas that burned last year are more susceptible to floods and landslides because of unstable soil.
 
BHS encourages individuals, families and communities this week to better understand their risk from floods and learn what they can do to reduce their vulnerability.

Being prepared for a flood not only can help keep Idahoans safe, it also can help minimize potential flood damage and reduce recovery costs. Information on flood awareness and preparedness is available on the Web at http://www.nws.noaa.gov/floodsafety/, www.floodsmart.gov, or www.bhs.idaho.gov.
 
“There are many variables that factor into flooding potential and flooding events,” said Col. Brad Richy, BHS director.  “Any given year in Idaho can present dangerous flooding conditions.  All Idahoans should take action and personal responsibility in preparing themselves before the next flood. Specifically, I would like to encourage those who live in flood-prone areas to purchase flood insurance and to develop preparedness plans. ”
 
Preparing for and responding to flood events is a team effort, and the Bureau of Homeland Security works closely with the Idaho departments of Water Resources and Environmental Quality, the National Weather Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Natural Resources Conservation Service, U.S. Geological Survey and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to make sure Idaho is prepared for floods and Idahoans have access to flood preparedness information.

Published 3-22-13