Southern Idaho disaster declaration approved

UPDATE: 3:45 P.M. Rigby: Jefferson County officials sustained nearly $800,000 in road damage when rapid snowmelt overwhelmed drainage systems. Most of the damage occurred west of Roberts. County officials described it as the worst flooding in that area since the early 1960’s. The worst of the flooding ended in mid-March. Repairs began as soon as crews were able to access damaged areas and are still ongoing. The disaster declaration will financially help the county restore the roads. Officials also hope to improve drainage in the affected areas. ORIGINAL STORY: Bingham, Franklin, and Jefferson Counties are among 11 southern Idaho counties included in a Presidential Disaster Declaration signed by President Donald J. Trump Friday. The declaration triggers release of federal funds to help the communities repair public infrastructure damaged by severe winter storms and related flooding that happened between February 5 and March 3. Damage assessments in Bingham, Cassia, Elmore, Franklin, Gooding, Jefferson, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, Twin Falls, and Washington counties exceed $30 million. Many primary and secondary roadways were damaged beyond repair, forcing residents in some areas to get around in small boats or kayaks. “We are grateful that President Trump acted quickly to support parts of Idaho struggling through one of our worst weather-related disasters in recent memory,” said Governor C.L.”Butch” Otter. “But it’s important to remember that areas of Idaho beyond these 11 counties also were impacted and now face the threat of serious flooding as a result of our heavy winter snowfall. This is great news and there should be more to come.” The state has appealed the administration’s denial of a Presidential Disaster Declaration for five Idaho counties affected by severe winter snow in December and January. “The destruction caused by all this water is breathtaking in its scope and magnitude,” said Brad Richy, deputy chief of the Idaho Office of Emergency Management. “The assistance made available through this Presidential Disaster Declaration will go a long way in repairing disaster-damaged public infrastructure. There is still a lot of flooding going on around the state. It is critically important that all Idahoans heed the warnings for flooded areas, and be prepared for worst-case scenarios.” The Idaho Emergency Operations Center remains activated due to ongoing spring flooding statewide. More information is available here.