According to the Idaho Office of Emergency Management, we’re in for a weather trifecta: First the snow, then extreme cold temperatures, then flooding as temperatures rise to above freezing by Sunday. “One of Idaho’s major hazards is flooding following significant snowfall and subsequent rapid thawing,” warned Brad Richy, director of the office.

Currently, the Lemhi and Big Wood rivers and the Snake River at Weiser all are experiencing minor flooding related to ice jams. Lemhi County also is seeing minor to moderate flooding in low areas near the Salmon River north of the city of Salmon, and the Snake River above the American Falls reservoir is considered a high-risk area for flooding.

Noting that similar conditions in 1997 led to a statewide presidential disaster declaration, Richy announced that the state has activated the Idaho Emergency Operations Center at “heightened awareness” and is advising caution for drivers, including avoiding driving across flooded roads; checking conditions before traveling; and carrying emergency supplies. Urban areas also are at risk, he said, from backed-up storm drains and falling snow- and ice-covered branches. The “heightened awareness” designation means “the threat level is moderate, with a chance of developing into a state level emergency disaster.”