Wildfires and Flooding
Floods are the most common and costly natural hazard in the nation. Whether caused by heavy rain or thunderstorms, the results of flooding can be devastating.
While some floods develop over time, flash floods, particularly common after wildfires, can occur within minutes after the onset of a rainstorm.
Even areas that are not traditionally flood prone are at risk due to changes to the landscape caused by fire.
Springs Fire Burned Area
In the aftermath of the Springs Fire near Banks, Idaho, locations within the burned area are more susceptible to flash flooding and debris flows.
The Springs Fire burned a significant amount of steep, mountainous terrain along the Payette River near Banks, and the intersection of Highway 55 and Banks-Lowman Road.
Areas at a high risk of flash flooding and debris flows during rainfall include Highway 55 from about 1 mile south of
Banks to 3.5 miles north of Banks, and along Banks-Lowman Road the from the Highway 55 intersection to 4.5 miles east of Banks. Springs Fire Incident
How Can I Be Prepared?
In the event of moderate to heavy rainfall, do not wait for a flash flood warning in order to take steps to protect life and property.
Thunderstorms that develop over the burned area may begin to produce flash flooding and debris flows before a warning can be issued.
If you are in an area vulnerable to flooding and debris flows, plan in advance and move away from the area.
There may be very little time to react once the storms and rain start.