Værmelding for Garfield School

Hydrologic Outlook issued February 24 at 8:43AM MST by NWS Billings MTESFBYZA deep and wet snowpack exists across the forecast area. Upto an inch of snow water has melted out of this snowpack overthe past few days. This still leaves 1 to 3 inches (more insome areas such as the Wolf Mountains) of water remaining.Continued warm temperatures forecast over the coming dayswill accelerate snowmelt, releasing this water. With the groundstill frozen, water will not be able to soak in and will runoff. Water flowing overland and accumulating in low lyingareas may result in localized flooding. Water flowing intocreeks and streams will increase the potential for ice jamdevelopment and may result in additional flooding near waterways.Impacts...Water may accumulate near home foundations increasingthe chance of basement flooding. Plugged culverts, ditches, andstorm drains may result in water on area roadways at times. Waterflowing into creeks and streams will increase the potential forice jam development with additional flooding hazards. Unpavedroads may suddenly thaw and become muddy and impassable. Theseverity of the impacts will depend on how quickly the snowpackmelts, how fast the ground thaws, and any precipitation.Preparation...While flooding is not imminent, if you have notalready done so, now is the time to move equipment and livestockout of low lying areas, and away from waterways. Move any heavyaccumulations of snow away from structures and take steps toprevent water from making it into basements. Clear any outsidedrains of snow. Do not drive over flooded roadways as the roadbedmay be washed out. Be especially careful driving at night whenwater covered roadways are less visible.Stay tuned to the forecast for the latest temperature andprecipitation trends, along with any warnings or advisoriesthat may be issued. Please report any flooding to local lawenforcement and have them relay the report to the NationalWeather Service.

National Weather Service