These Are the New Dangers With Missoula Storm Cleanup

A week after Missoula trees and power poles were flattened by a severe thunderstorm, you might think all the danger is behind us.

But that actually couldn't be further from the truth.

From the continuing threat of more damaged trees and limbs coming down, to wildfires, and even flooding streets, community leaders are warning people to continue to use caution as we head into Thunderstorm Week 2.

A very real fire threat

Monday's rains might have prompted you to dismiss the long, hot, and very dry July that just came to a close. But first responders are worried that with at least a third of the summer left, and tons of debris on the ground, there are risks of wildfires breaking out within the urban interface, or even in urban neighborhoods.

Missoula Fire Chief Gordy Hughes reminds everyone that the valley is still under Stage 2 fire restrictions. That means power equipment like saws, can't be used after early afternoon.

"Folks are going to want to do their best to take care of their issues, their debris that they have to take care of in their own residences. But the last thing we need is to ignite some wildfires within the urban interface here. And I really caution folks to adhere to those Stage 2 restrictions."

You may see firefighters using saws later in the day, but Hughes says they have emergency exceptions, and take safety precautions.  

"We generally come with water when we utilize those tools. So if we ignite a fire, we can quickly put that fire out," Hughes explains.

"Let the responders and those emergency folks utilize the gas-powered chainsaws after the 1:00 curfew for the whole hour restrictions."  

READ MORE: Army of volunteers help re-open Missoula golf course

Look up

We've heard these words of advice several times this week, as Missoula City and County leaders have shared information as the initial cleanup has been underway.

That advice is for people to check their surroundings to look for dangling limbs, and even entire trees, that might have been caught up in the air and didn't come completely down. The city says that also applies to parks and public areas. City staff are doing their best to identify additional hazards, but leaders say people should continue to be cautious.

Storm drains

The city and county are also asking people to check and make sure they haven't stacked debris where it might be blocking storm drains, which could cause minor flooding problems in streets and properties.

If you notice blocked storm drains that can't be cleared by simply moving limbs or debris, you should call 406-552-6379 and a crew will be dispatched.

READ MORE: Governor Reviews Storm Damage and Promises Aid

Power lines

While most power lines have been raised, utilities have watched people continue to watch out for any damaged lines, including service lines on their own property, and report those so repairs can be made.

Weather threats ahead

This weekend, and coming week could also be a challenge. The National Weather Service is warning of a strong push of monsoonal moisture, starting Saturday evening, which appears likely to set off strong thunderstorms. That could bring brief, heavy rainfall, and winds gusting up to 40 miles per hour in some locations.