Missoula River Danger Alert: How to Stay Safe During High Spring Runoff

Western Montana rivers are running high this spring. We have had a lot of runoff from the mountains and we have seen plentiful rain so far this spring. When the rivers run high, they can be extremely dangerous.

People should always be aware of the dangers of being around water. This year the area rivers are especially dangerous. It's not just the rivers themselves, it's what's in them.

Western Montana Rivers Are Running High, Fast and Cold

I spoke with Claire Seibold from Missoula Search and Rescue about the spring conditions and how to be safe while out recreating.

We are seeing a large runoff with the warmer temperatures and rain, especially in the last few weeks. So the big thing has just been knowing that the rivers might be unpredictable. They're changing from day-to-day. They're colder than we expect, faster than we expect. 

Another issue this season is some of the fallout from the big storm we saw come through Western Montana last summer.

We're seeing a lot of logs that are now getting washed downstream that were blown over in that storm. Extra wood is in the water and that's extremely dangerous. Wood in the water forms strainers, which can easily hang up on people. Water goes through them. People do not.

The City of Missoula's Fire Department Search and Rescue performed water rescue training last week.

Seibold offered some tips for anyone who is going to be spending time on Montana's waterways.

1. Personal Flotation Devices (PFD) are very important. For people who fish there are belt-style devices available. There are also PFDs available for pets. A pet can be swept away by a swift current too.
2. Use the Buddy System. Make sure if you are heading out to recreate you let someone know where you are going and when you are expected to be home. If something were to happen, this information will help in emergency situations.
3. Scout  ahead— Conditions are changing daily and this could affect your experience on the water.
4. Watch the weather. Montana weather can change rapidly and that can affect water conditions.
5. Dress for the conditions. The running water is cold this time of year. Having layers or some extra warm clothing can be life-saving.

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Don't take for granted preparedness. Take some extra time to make sure you are ready to spend some time on the water. Missoula Search and Rescue can't emphasize safety enough on our rivers, especially this year.