Counties and cities prepare for possible flooding
Published at | Updated at
IDAHO FALLS — Cities and counties across east Idaho are preparing for possible flooding as temperatures warm up and rain is expected over the next few days.
A sandbag-filling station has been set up in Bingham County at the Moreland Central Transfer Station off Highway 26. Free sand and bags are being provided, but county residents must bring their own shovels to fill the bags.
Officials in Idaho Falls are warning about potential drainage problems in homes and businesses.
“While some standing water is to be expected, major drainage problems should be reported to the city,” a city statement sent to EastIdahoNews.com reads. “During regular working hours, contact the Wastewater Division at (208) 612-8108. To report a drainage issue during weekend/non-working hours, contact Dispatch at (208) 612-8430.”
In Pocatello, sand and sandbags will be available for residents at the Street Operations shop located at 1080 South 1st Avenue. Residents will be required to fill their own sandbags and are asked to take no more than eight sandbags. If it becomes necessary, additional sand and sand bags will be moved to other locations in town.
“We take these forecasts very seriously,” said Tom Kirkman, Pocatello Street Operations Superintendent. “Ahead of the storm, crews with the Street Operations Department have been clearing storm drains of snow and ice to help keep water flowing.”
In Rexburg, crews with the Department of Public Works have been working to clear snow from storm drains.
“Our workers are opening up catch basins and drains to make sure the water has a place to drain,” Department of Public Works director Keith Davidson tells EastIdahoNews.com.
The National Weather Service has issued the following tips in preparation for possible flooding:
– If you have access to sandbags or other materials, use them to protect your home from flood waters if you have sufficient time to do so. Filling sandbags can take more time than you may think.
– Grab a shovel and make sure drains in front of your home are clear, including as much of the gutters along the sidewalks as possible.