Northwestern Montana is currently facing severe flooding due to an atmospheric river event. This situation has prompted a state of emergency in Lincoln County, the region’s northwesternmost area. Recent warm temperatures caused high levels of precipitation, significantly affecting local water systems.
Weather Conditions and Flooding Impact
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued flooding watches around noon on Wednesday. Certain sites reported almost record-breaking precipitation totals within a 24-hour period. NWS meteorologist Dan Borsum described the recent “rain-on-snow” weather pattern as unusual for mid-December, comparing it to conditions usually seen in warmer months.
Areas including Libby and Troy have experienced the worst of the flooding. Public health officials are urging residents against unnecessary travel and have issued a boil-water order for Libby city water supply users due to potential contamination risks. School cancellations have also been announced in Libby and Troy.
Emergency Response Efforts
The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department has reported several compromised bridges caused by the flooding. Residents are advised to check an online interactive map for road closures and other conditions. “The recovery process will be lengthy,” stated public health manager Zach Sherbo, noting significant structural damage to bridges.
A maintenance chief from the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) has confirmed closures of three segments of state-managed roadways. An 80-foot section of Farm to Market Road has washed out as Libby Creek altered its channel. Additionally, erosion is being monitored along U.S. Highway 2 and Highway 56.
Collaboration and Support
To aid in the recovery efforts, the Army Corps of Engineers is supporting sandbag-filling and distribution. The Red Cross has established a temporary shelter for those affected. The Montana Disaster and Emergency Services agency is onsite to provide further assistance as needed.
Governor Greg Gianforte noted that neighboring Sanders and Flathead counties have also declared emergencies in response to the flooding. Rainfall totals could reach up to four inches in certain areas, compounding the existing situation.
Rainfall Statistics and River Conditions
Recent reports indicate that the Bear Mountain snowpack monitoring site has recorded 6.5 inches of precipitation, marking one of its wettest 24-hour periods in 44 years. The total rainfall from December 6 to 11 is approximately 13 inches.
- Yaak River near Troy: Exceeded flood stage with a flow of over 7,500 cubic feet per second (cfs).
- Fisher River near Libby: Approaching flood stage at nearly 4,000 cfs, significantly higher than the typical mid-December levels.
The current conditions echo a similar flooding event from June 2022, which required extensive repairs to local infrastructure.
Health Concerns Related to Flooding
Environmental experts have indicated that flooding poses little immediate health risk from airborne asbestos fibers. However, the situation might uncover previously hidden vermiculite, raising potential concerns.
