Breaking News
JUNE 8th, 2011: YELLOWSTONE ROADS UPDATE
Changing weather conditions such as rain or warmer temperatures may result in conditions which may prompt changes to this schedule or may result in temporary, ‘round-the-clock closures. Travelers are encouraged to check the park’s 24-hour Road Report Hotline at 307-344-2117 for the latest updates.
Though any road inside Yellowstone can be subject to adverse impact with the spring elements, both Dunraven and Sylvan Pass routes are particularly prone to avalanche or rock slide activity and could close at a moment’s notice when rain and snow persist. Yellowstone avalanche forecasters have currently deemed both routes stable and safe for visitor travel.
Plow crews also continue to work clearing snow from the last few miles of US-212, the Beartooth Highway. After clearing snowfall which has accumulated last week, they will finish opening the road between West Summit and the Montana-Wyoming State Line. Weather conditions permitting, this should allow the entire length of road between Red Lodge and Cooke City, Montana, to open to travelers by this weekend.
MAY 31, 2011: Montana Flood Information
Currently, state of emergencies have been declared in 51 Montana counties, towns and Indian reservations. Here are resources for more information on flood activity in Montana.
For the latest information on the weather forecast and current flood advisories, watches and warnings, visit the National Weather Service at: http://www.wrh.noaa.gov
Updated every 2-3 minutes, most current watches, warnings & advisories across the state: http://alerts.weather.gov/cap/mt.php?x=1
In viewing this information, one will see that a significant portion of Montana is either under a Flood Watch or a Flood Warning. It is helpful to understand the difference between the two: A Flood watch means a flood is possible in the area, because conditions are more favorable than usual for its occurrence.
A watch is a recommendation for planning, preparation, and increased awareness (be alert for changing weather, listen for further information, and think about what to do if the danger materializes.) A Flood warning means a flood is imminent or occurring; take immediate action to protect life and property.
You can monitor the statewide flood situation at: http://www.inciweb.org/state/27/
For statewide information on flood declarations in Montana counties, visit the DES website at: http://dma.mt.gov/des/default.asp
CURRENT ROAD CLOSURES/DETOURS as of: Tuesday, May 31, 2011
View the latest flood/detour information from the Montana Department of Transportation http://www.mdt.mt.gov/travinfo/floods.shtml
If there is flooding near a town or resort on a traveler’s itinerary, several sources of information and assistance are available. The Montana Office of Tourism has travel counselors who can offer information and advice over the telephone Mondays through Fridays from 7 a.m. – 6 p.m., Mountain Time, at 800-VISIT-MT (800-847-4868) and our website www.visitmt.com provides a wealth of information as well.
Visitors and residents are reminded to use extreme caution near water. Debris-laden streams and rivers are flowing fast and the water is extremely cold. Should flooding occur, visitors should stay at higher ground, and should not cross flooded roads or bridges.
Don't walk through or drive in water that is above your ankles. STOP! Turn around and go the other way. Don't drive over a flooded road when you don't know the depth of the water. It could be washed out under the water.
Many roads and trails are still inaccessible, and creeks and rivers can swell rapidly. Roads and trails that are passable early in the day may become unsafe in the afternoon as rivers and creeks rise due to increased snowmelt.
Tips for boaters and high water conditions:
Redirect your water recreation to lakes and ponds until high water subsides
If you do go, don’t boat alone
Make sure someone on shore knows where you plan to put in, take out, and when you plan to return
If the water is in a stage you wouldn’t choose to swim in, then don’t launch your boat
And, if you do launch, wear a well-fitted life vest and, in rough waters, a helmet.
