Helena, MT – While winter isn’t over yet, Lewis and Clark County reminds residents it’s time to start thinking about and planning for flood season.

“Being prepared for seasonal flooding is the best way to protect your family and property,” said Tom Rolfe, Lewis and Clark County Commission Board Chair.

Right now, people should be thinking about purchasing flood insurance. In most cases, standard homeowners’ insurance does not cover flood events and most flood insurance policies take 30 days to go into effect. Additionally, flood insurance typically does not cover flooding from groundwater. For more flood insurance information, visit: https://csimt.gov/your-insurance/flood/

Elevate critical utilities such as electrical panels, switches, sockets, wiring, appliances and heating systems. Move furniture, valuables and important documents to a safe place.

Flooding can contaminate water systems, so make sure to keep extra drinking water on hand. Have an evacuation plan in place and a “go-bag” ready should you have to leave you residence due to flooding. If you take critical medications and live in a flood prone area, make sure to have enough on hand in the event you are unable to get out for several days.

“It’s critical for county residents to get National Weather Service Great Falls alerts. Weather conditions can change rapidly during the spring. Always remember to abide by road closure signs if there’s water over a roadway. Turn around, don’t drowned.” Lewis and Clark County Floodplain Manager, Worby McNamee,

Stay up to date on any National Weather Service-Great Falls Office alerts at:

National Weather Service-Great Falls https://www.weather.gov/tfx/

If you are going to do any floodplain development, need information on emergency permitting or floodproofing, contact Worby McNamee, County Floodplain Manager at 406-447-8375 regarding floodplain permitting.

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