Emergency Management: ‘Situational Awareness’ Good Idea

Sheridan County Emergency Management Coordinator Bruce Edwards, in a release Wednesday, is encouraging the public to be aware of their surroundings this weekend and into next week while recreating, especially in the foothills of the Bighorn Mountains.

Although flooding is not expected, stream levels and stream flows will increase as warmer temperatures will increase snow melt runoff of area rivers and streams, and people should be prepared for changing conditions, use caution when near or in flowing water, especially in low-lying areas.

The National Weather Service Offices in Billings and Riverton have issued “Hydrological Outlook” statements for portions of Wyoming, including Sheridan County, due to unseasonably warm temperatures forecasted for later this week and extending into next week.

This warm-up will produce temperatures in the 80-degree range, resulting in overnight temperatures remaining well above freezing at elevations of 8,000 feet and above.

This will accelerate snowmelt run-off and increase stream flows along rivers and streams emerging from the mountains.

Speaking with Sheridan Media, Johnson County Emergency Management Coordinator Marilyn Connolly echoed Edwards’ concerns, saying although rivers and creeks in Johnson County are not near flood levels at this time, she is monitoring the situation and has sand and sandbags available in case there are issues with flooding due to the high temperatures expected over the next few days.

She also suggested people be aware of their surroundings and monitor rivers and creeks during this warm-up period as stream flows increase from runoff.