Due to high runoff, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is continuing increased releases of water from Garrison Dam to make room for additional flood storage capacity. Residents that live in low lying areas, and those affected by rising waters in 2009 should monitor their environment for potential flood hazards and be prepared. The forecast projects potential rain amounts this weekend of 1 to 2 inches. If this occurs, these rainfall amounts could produce overland flooding. Bismarck Emergency Manager Gary Stockert encourages residents to “Heed the advisories and warnings, get prepared, monitor your surroundings and stay tuned for updates.”
Be aware of potential flood hazards no matter where you live, but especially if you live in a low-lying area or, near water. Even very small streams, gullies, creeks, culverts, dry streambeds, or low-lying ground that appears harmless in dry weather can have the potential to flood. Overland flooding can occur outside a defined river or stream, but still can be destructive.
Sandbag SitesOutdoor self-fill sand bags sites are available at three locations for residents to use for localized flooding if needed. Bring your own gloves and shovels. The sites are located at:
1. Ash Coulee Water Tower – West of Washington Street and east of the Horizon Middle School, near the recycling dumpsters. 2. Santa Fe Ave – Cottonwood Complex, just west of South 12th Street in the parking lot for Cottonwood Complex.
3. Missouri Valley Complex (Fairgrounds) - Use the Bismarck Expressway entrance. Exit using Main Ave/Highway 10 to the north.
Prepare your house• Be prepared to plug floor drains in the lower level of your house to prevent sewer backups.
• A floodwall or berm can be constructed around low points such as doorways and window wells to prevent water from entering the house. A properly built sandbag dike can prevent or reduce flood damage.• Make sure your sump pump is working and then install a battery-operated backup, in case of a power failure. Installing a water alarm will also let you know if water is accumulating in your basement.
• Clear debris from gutters and downspouts. Ensure roof gutters and downspouts are in place and functional. Drainage can be blocked and problems can develop over time from debris and sedimentation. Removal of these obstructions near your home can restore proper drainage.• Contour ground surface to keep water out of window wells. Because windows can't withstand much pressure, build dams and contour the ground so water will naturally drain away from the house.
• Anchor any fuel tanks. • Move furniture, valuables, and important documents to a safe place at a higher level.