Idaho Flash Flood Risk
Release Date: November 11, 1999
Release Number: R10-99-46
Boise, Idaho -- Not all flooding occurs in mapped floodplains. Last week's severe thunderstorms in eastern Idaho and flash flood-driven basement inundation in Pocatello are timely reminders of what sudden storms can do when water accumulates unexpectedly. According to Bureau of Disaster Services (BDS) director John Cline, no area of the state is exempt from flash floods.
"Thunderstorms strike with little warning, and we can't prevent flooding. We can, and must take prudent, 'pre-emptive' action to mitigate the hurt--to reduce the loss of life and property from natural disasters," said Cline. "Weather radios should be part of every disaster kit and we all need to take special care to be aware of our surroundings. Buildings can be protected, and in more flood-prone areas, elevated or even relocated. And when flood waters rise against all preparations, flood insurance available through the National Flood Insurance Program is the best possible 'safety net.'"
For FEMA's free 63-page booklet: "Answers to Questions About the National Flood Insurance Program," and information on how to protect your home or business from flood damage, call toll-free: 1-800-480-2520.
Last Modified: Friday, 09-Jan-2004 15:04:04