FGUS75 KBYZ 030905
ESFBYZ
MTC003-009-011-017-025-037-065-067-075-087-095-097-103-107-111-
WYC033-050000-

Hydrologic Outlook
National Weather Service Billings MT
205 AM MST Sat Feb 3 2024

...Overland and Ice Jam flooding possible due rainfall on frozen 
ground...

A storm system will bring a mix of rain and snow this weekend. At 
elevations under 5000 feet precipitation will be mainly rain, or a 
rain and snow mix, and in other areas any snow that falls will melt 
quickly. With the ground frozen in many locations, this water will 
not be able to soak into the ground and will all runoff. Any rain, 
or wet snow, that falls on snowpack in the foothills will likewise 
runoff rapidly. This water, flowing overland and accumulating in low 
lying areas, may result in localized flooding. Runoff flowing into 
ice covered creeks and streams will increase the potential for ice 
jam development, and may result in additional flooding near 
waterways.

Water may accumulate near home foundations increasing the chance of 
basement flooding. Plugged culverts, ditches, and storm drains may 
result in water on area roadways at times. Water flowing into creeks 
and streams will increase the potential for ice jam development with 
additional flooding hazards near waterways. Unpaved roads may 
suddenly thaw and become muddy and impassable. The severity of 
impacts will depend on how how much precipitation falls as rain or 
melting snow, and how fast the ground thaws.

While flooding is not imminent, now is the time to move equipment 
and livestock out of low lying areas, and away from waterways. Move 
any accumulations of snow away from structures and take steps to 
prevent water from making it into basements. Do not drive over 
flooded roadways as the roadbed may be washed out. Be especially 
careful driving at night when water covered roadways are less 
visible.

Stay tuned to the forecast for the latest temperature and 
precipitation trends, along with any warnings or advisories that may 
be issued. Please report any flooding to local law enforcement and 
have them relay the report to the National Weather Service.

$$