Forest Service warns of flash flooding northwest of Salmon

On Monday the U.S Forest Service issued a notice to people visiting the Salmon-Challis National Forest this week to warn them of the possibility of mudslides.

Thunderstorms are expected to blanket the region, and areas burned by the Mustang Complex fire last year are especially prone to flash flooding and mudslides. The Salmon River Road from North Fork to Corn Creek is at risk of seeing such flooding and slides.

Here is the notice from the Forest Service:

“Heavy thunderstorms are predicted for the Salmon?Challis NationalForest starting Tuesday afternoon, July 16th.Forest visitors must be prepared to stay longer thanexpected due to changing circumstances.

“Weather conditions such as precipitation and windcan rapidly change conditions on the ground.

“Wind can blow trees across roadways andblocking access. Preparation for the unexpectedis the best plan a Forest visitor can have.

“Of particular concern is the Salmon River Road,from North Fork to Corn Creek Boat Launch.TheMustang Complex Fire burned along approximately 55 milesof the Main Salmon River, adjacentto the Salmon River Road.

“There is potential for rocks and other debris to slough down onto the roadway and into the river.”

“The Salmon-Challis National Forest, especially within and adjacent to last summer’s burnedareas, has already been impacted by summer thunderstorms,” says Chuck Mark, forest supervisor, in the notice. “The predicted heavy rain that is to accompany the thunderstorms on Tuesdayafternoon and Wednesday are of concern.”