The middle of February has seen a very dangerous mix of snow and ice for many local homes, sidewalks, roads and highways. Several individuals have been seen around Plains on ladders and roofs working to reduce the weight of snow and ice building up in an effort to lessen the chance of damage to the structures. Many area roads, streets and highways were also seriously impacted from the warming temperatures, rain, and the melting ice and snow.

The Montana Department of Transportation and the Montana Highway Patrol closed I-90 from St. Regis to Lookout Pass at the Montana and Idaho border Feb. 9 due to heavy rain and standing water on the highway. Much of the traffic that usually moves along I-90 was rerouted to Montana Highway 135 and then onto Montana Highway 200.

For those traveling and trying to drive across the state of Washington, the trip was only possible by traveling along the Columbia Gorge roads and highways, as much of U.S. Highway 2, Snoqualmie Pass, I-90, Idaho Highway 12, and Idaho Highway 34 were closed or blocked due to serious avalanche dangers, standing water on the roadways, ice or black ice.

As winter winds down and warmer spring weather approaches, there remains the potential for some area flooding and flash flooding in area streams, creeks and rivers. It is recommended that residents and travelers use extra caution around standing water on roads, highways and near rising waters. Please contact local law enforcement agencies when flooding is observed.

Reporter Douglas Wilks can be reached at dwilks@vp-mi.com or 406-826-3402.