Lincoln County is currently experiencing severe flooding due to an atmospheric river weather event bringing heavy rain and warm temperatures, leading to rapid snow-melt and swollen waterways.
This is part of a broader catastrophic flooding episode across the Pacific Northwest, with Lincoln County among the hardest-hit areas in Montana.
Lincoln County Advisories
The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has issued an urgent advisory for necessary travel only across the entire county due to widespread flooding, rockslides, and mudslides. Residents are urged to avoid non-essential movement to prevent accidents and allow emergency crews to operate.
Multiple highways and roads are impassable. Key closures include:
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- U.S. Highway 2 between Libby and Kalispell.
- State Highway 56 between Libby and Noxon.
- State Route 482 (S-482) from mile marker 0 to 6.5 south of Libby.
- Several bridges have been damaged or washed out, exacerbating isolation in rural areas.
Montana Disaster and Emergency Services is monitoring these and warning of increased risks.
School and Public Service Disruptions
Schools in Lincoln County have been canceled or closed due to the weather. A precautionary boil water order is in effect for Libby residents due to high turbidity potentially contaminating the water supply. Water system personnel are actively addressing the issue.
Specific Flood Reports:
Local observations include:
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- About 6 inches of water over West 2nd Street in Libby near Parmenter Creek.
- Up to a foot of water flooding residences along Vicks Lane southeast of Libby from Libby Creek overflow.
A Flood Watch remains in effect for Lincoln County and surrounding areas (including Flathead, Lake, Sanders, and Mineral Counties) through at least the rest of today with expectations of continued ponding on roadways, urban flooding, and potential for additional slides.
The National Weather Service has noted this as a major event, with some rivers like the Skagit River in Western Washington state approaching or exceeding flood stages.
Recommendations
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- Follow updates from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Montana Highway Patrol, and local news outlets.
- Avoid flooded roads and low-lying areas; “turn around, don’t drown.”
- For emergencies, contact local authorities or dial 911.
- Monitor real-time conditions via official sources like the Montana Department of Transportation or NOAA.
This situation is evolving, with reports indicating ongoing risks. Historical context shows Lincoln County has faced significant flooding in past years (e.g., 2022 and 2023 events), but the current event is described as particularly severe.
If you’re in the area, prioritize safety and heed evacuation warnings if issued.
