The following is a press release from Lincoln County Emergency Management

Lincoln County Emergency Management is encouraging county residents to prepare for the potential of minor flooding throughout the county as snowmelt begins. Below-average temperatures have delayed snowmelt, leading to increasingly above-average snowpack for this time of year. Most of Lincoln County’s major subbasins have reached 135% or more of average Snow Water Equivalent (SWE), and these have consistently risen each week. While this does not guarantee river and stream flooding across the county, there is some potential for minor flooding as the weather warms. Much of the potential for impact will be decided in the coming weeks, and will depend on multiple factors.

County residents should monitor this situation, and take early mitigation measures to protect property if they believe they are at risk. Irrigation and drainage systems should be cleared of
any obstructions. Important items in basements can be raised off the floor, or moved to above-ground locations. Snowmelt flooding can happen virtually anywhere, even if you live far from waterways. Homeowners should also ensure that they have proper flood insurance in case of property damages. Responsibility lies with homeowners to protect their own property.

STAY INFORMED
Monitor the National Weather Service – Riverton forecast office (www.weather.gov/riw) daily to get the latest forecast and advisories. Lincoln County Emergency Management provides regular
press releases to local newspapers and radio outlets throughout flood season to provide situational updates. We will also provide the latest information on our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/LincolnCountyOHS), as well as on information displays and boards in Lincoln County facilities. As the situation develops, we will provide regular updates about status and any resources made available.

SIGN UP FOR EMERGENCY NOTIFICATIONS
In the event of an emergency situation, Lincoln County Emergency Management utilizes the CodeRED Emergency Notification System. CodeRED allows us to notify the public quickly by phone, email, text message, and app notifications. This system only works if you are signed up for these alerts, however. Landline information is gathered from local Telephone service providers every November, but Cell phones, email addresses, etc. must be entered into the system by filling out the sign-up form available on the Lincoln County website (www.lincolncountywy.gov) or by texting LCWY to 99411.

FLOOD WATER CAN CREATE HEALTH HAZARDS
Flooding, whether caused by runoff or subsurface water, can bring bacteria and other contaminants into your home. This can also lead to mold problems that may affect those living in the home. Flood-affected areas will need to be thoroughly cleaned by someone with the proper tools and knowledge to mitigate the hazards.

Children are often drawn to water, especially when it is running higher and faster than normal, leading to increased potential for drowning. They are also more likely to play in puddles or other
stagnant water. Pooled water can also contain infectious bacteria such as E.Coli and others. If you come in contact with flood waters, you should wash thoroughly with soap and clean water
as soon as possible.

Flooding may also lead to contamination of well water. Wyoming DEQ has resources for information regarding protecting wells, water testing, and more. (https://deq.wyoming.gov/water-quality/groundwater/know-your-well). Local Public Health offices also have information to help.

For additional information, contact:
Stephen Malik, Public Information Officer
Lincoln County Emergency Management
em-pio@lincolncountywy.gov
http://www.lincolncountywy.gov
facebook.com/LincolnCountyOHS