Snowmelt Has Rivers Running High, Peak Flows Expected Over The Next Ten days

The second week in June typically sees the peak for snowmelt and river flows in our part of the world, and this year is following the pattern

At 12:16 p.m. today, the Billings office of the National Weather Service put out the following notification to the public:

Sunny skies and warm temperatures over the past week have enhanced snowmelt in the mountains, resulting in high flows on area waterways. While flooding is not imminent on larger rivers and streams, many smaller streams in the foothills will be near bankfull over the next 7 to 10 days, and minor flooding can not be ruled out.

There will be cooler temperatures through this weekend into early next week that will help slow the snowmelt and bring water levels down, or at least diminish rises for a few days. Warmer temperatures return for the middle of next week. Based on the latest SNOTEL traces in the mountains, this warmer weather should bring the peak of rivers and streams from snowmelt for this runoff season, going into next weekend. At this time precipitation potential looks very low through next weekend, helping to keep waterways below bankfull.

Those with interests along area waterways should be prepared for high water levels in the near term, and move property and livestock away from rivers, streams, and low lying areas.

Safety Tips: Bank erosion will make shorelines unstable so avoid walking along or near streambanks. Do not allow children to play near the water's edge, and be sure to have them wear life jackets if anywhere near flowing water. Recreationists in the mountains and foothills should be prepared for changing conditions and use extra caution when near waterways. Flows will be fast, and the water is cold. Fishing access sites may become inundated by high water. Now is not the best time for on-the-river activities, it will be safer once water levels subside to normal summer flows.