Parts of Wyoming prepare of possible flooding

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (Wyoming News Now) - Even though we are experiencing a greater-than-normal winter snowpack during a historic drought.

This means there is a higher risk of flooding in the state as temperatures rise and snow melts.

Gov. Mark Gordon and the Wyoming Office of Homeland Security support local preparation efforts and closely monitor river levels.

Gordon says the state is committed to assisting local communities in their efforts to respond to potential floods.

As of Friday, May 19th, the Little Snake River near Baggs was experiencing minor flooding. Two gauges on the North Platte River near Saratoga indicated that waters were approaching flood stage.

Gordon’s recent visit to Carbon County’s Office of Emergency Management coordinated the distribution of sandbags for area residents.

Additional gauges indicated that some area rivers are near flood stage.

This included the Bear River in the Bridger Valley, the Salt River near Etna and Pacific Creek near Moran.

State preparedness activities included filling sandbags shoring up dikes, and updating county websites with additional information and resources.

The Wyoming Office of Homeland Security also hosted a flood summit and emergency management meeting in Casper last month to discuss areas of concern.

Residents can take steps such as preparing emergency kits and having an evacuation plan, including how to care for pets and livestock.

The Wyoming Information Sharing platform can also help with resources and information.

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