SIGNS OF SPRING

Spring is here. While the snow has not disappeared from Sanders County, the melting process has begun, with temperatures hitting the high 50s this week. Residents and visitors have noticed the giant snow piles and ice jams in the Clark Fork and Flathead rivers, but county officials say flooding in the main rivers is not a concern at this point.

"Looking at the historical records, the flows are a little below normal," Sanders County Emergency Manager Bill Naegeli said. With the forecast of warmer temperatures and not much precipitation, Naegeli said "field flooding and small stream flooding is more what we are concerned about at this point, just because we have so much low-level and mid-level snow."

On Monday, Sanders County Road Department staff began putting out weight restriction notices on county roads, another sign that spring has arrived.

Naegeli said they have seen a lot of ice cover on the Flathead River, but that it seems to be releasing slowly.

"The saving grace is that there is not any precipitation predicted for awhile, which helps slow down the melting process," Naegeli said.

The National Weather Service offers the following tips on how to prepare for the spring runoff and flooding season:

Consider buying flood insurance if you don't have an active policy, especially if you live in a flood prone area.

Make sure snow and ice is cleared from drains, window wells, ditches, and culverts under driveways.

Creating a flow path for runoff away from your home/property is one of the best ways to prevent flooding or other water drainage related issues.

Move equipment, hay and livestock away from low-lying areas prone to flooding

Find out what resources such as sandbags may be available in your community by calling your local County Disaster and Emergency Services Coordinator. In Sanders County, the coordinator is Bill Naegeli, 827-6955.

Anchor any fuel or waste tanks so that in the event of a flood they remain in place.