Governor Matt Mead announced Thursday afternoon that he has activated the Wyoming National Guard to help prevent flooding in Carbon and Fremont Counties.

Here is the news release from the Governor's office...

Governor Matt Mead has activated the Wyoming National Guard and has asked the Wyoming Office of Homeland Security to assist with flood prevention efforts in Carbon and Fremont Counties. Rising temperatures are expected to contribute to flood risk over the next few weeks.

“I want to do all we can to help avoid damage from spring floods,” said Governor Mead. “We have teamed up with local officials and residents to take preventative measures. This strategy has been successful for Wyoming. I thank the men and women of the National Guard for their hard work.”

Guy Cameron, Wyoming Office of Homeland Security Director, noted the success of a coordinated response in past spring flood events.

“The partnership of state agencies, the National Guard, local governments, the Tribes, the American Red Cross and volunteer support agencies is vital in protecting communities,” Cameron said.

“Our response to Wyoming’s residents in times of need is one of the more fulfilling missions we have,” said Maj. Gen. Luke Reiner, Wyoming’s Adjutant General. “We joined the Wyoming National Guard to serve our state in times of need. We love what we do.”

State officials will continue to monitor the state for additional areas of concern as temperatures warm.

As of 1 p.m. Thursday, the National Weather Service says flood warnings remain in effect for the North Platte River near Sinclair and Saratoga, as well the Laramie River near Ft. Laramie and the City of Laramie.

A special weather statement says a cluster of thunderstorms was tracked at 2:15 p.m. near Saddlestring, eight miles northwest of Buffalo. Torrential rainfall is predicted with the storm, along with small hail, cloud-to-ground lightning and a possibility of winds in excess of 40 mph.

The National Weather Service says streams and rivers throughout southeast Wyoming will continue to run high for the next several days due to continuing rainfall and snowmelt. Warmer temperatures through the weekend will bring rapid snowmelt.

According to the National Weather Service, campers and outdoor recreationists headed to the mountains this weekend need to be aware and watch for rapid water rises.

 

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