Press Release:
GREAT FALLS, Montana – CASCADE COUNTY WARNS GIBSON FLATS AREA RESIDENTS OF THE INCREASED RISK OF FLOODING FOLLOWING FIRE, THE REQUIREMENT TO SUBMIT EMERGENCY NOTIFCATION TO THE CASCADE COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMENT FOR WORK IN FEMA’S SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARD AREA AND TO PROTECT THEIR HOMES, BUSINESSES AND PROPERTY WITH FLOOD INSURANCE IN FLOOD-PRONE AREAS
As the Gibson Flats area recovers from the recent devastation caused by fire, Cascade County warns residents living in and surrounding fire areas about the high risk of flash flooding and mudflows, and urges them to protect their homes, businesses, and property with flood insurance.
Wildfires result in a loss of vegetation and leave the ground charred and unable to absorb water. This creates conditions for flooding. Even areas that are not traditionally flood-prone are at risk of flooding for up to several years after a fire.
Citizens who have lost structures in the fire in FEMA’s designated Special Flood Hazard Area must contact the Cascade County Planning Department at (406) 454-6905 or visit cascadecountymt.gov to complete an Emergency Notification form prior to or within five (5) days of doing any work on their property including, but not limited to, structural debris removal, excavation, grading, and/or placing any structures within the Special Flood Hazard Area. Recreation Vehicles may be placed in the Special Flood Hazard Area for no more than 180 consecutive days but must remain road ready.
Floods are the most common and expensive natural disaster in the U.S. Just an inch of water in an averaged-size home can cause more than $25,000 in damage. Most homeowners’ and renters’ insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is a separate policy that protects homes and belongings.
For more information, please contact the Cascade County Planning Department at (406) 454-6905.