JACKSON HOLE, Wyo. — For the month of May, Teton County Emergency Management is focusing on flooding, and invites the public to learn more.
According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, flooding is the most common and most expensive natural disaster in the United States. Just one inch of water pooled in a single-story, 1,000-square-foot home can cause close to $11,000 worth of damage.
Teton County has experienced seasonal flooding, flash floods, flooding due to ice jams, and flooding after a natural dam failure that resulted in the infamous Kelly Flood of 1927. Flooding can occur anywhere, at any time, and with little warning.
“I would say the biggest thing that surprised me in my 15 years as an emergency manager in Teton County is that flooding never seems to occur where you think it would,” says Rich Ochs, Teton County Emergency Management coordinator. “Flooding can crop up in areas outside of the flood insurance rate map zones, or on hillsides above streams due to snowmelt runoff. One thing I do know is that water will always win.”
The 2021-22 winter season was drier than average but localized flooding could still occur this spring. This type of flooding is most likely after rain-on-snow weather events or when temperatures warm rapidly, resulting in increased runoff.
If you ever find yourself in or near flood waters, observe the following safety tips:
- Never drive or walk into flood waters. Just six inches of moving water can knock over an adult, and two feet of water can carry away most vehicles. Water may be deeper than it appears and can hide hazards such as sharp objects, washed out road surfaces, electrical wires, and chemicals. Remember: Turn Around Don’t Drown.
- Keep away from downed power lines and any other electrical wires. Do not enter any room if water covers the electrical outlets or if cords are submerged.
- Get to higher ground. Know the fastest way to get to higher ground near your home, school, workplace, or anywhere else you spend a lot of time.
