Experts to help Madison and Jefferson counties manage flood risk

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is sending technical experts to Jefferson and Madison Counties to help local officials assess potential flood risks. A hydraulic engineer and a civil engineer from the Walla Walla District Headquarters were deployed Monday to help emergency managers respond to high flow conditions in the Snake River. The assessments will be based on current flood forecasts and anticipated seasonal flows. The Corps will provide input by identifying potential flood areas and recommending protective measures. While the Corps is authorized to work with states, counties, and other public entities to provide resources and information, it does not have authority to provide disaster assistance directly to individuals. “Our top priority is the public’s safety, so we’re encouraging folks in low-lying parts of flood-prone areas to stay tuned to information and advisories provided by the National Weather Service or their local emergency-service agencies and be ready to take action according to local flood response plans,” said Walla Walla District disaster response manager Jeff Stidham.