Painted Rocks Reservoir is full.
Everything that comes in must go out.
Spring snowmelt is about to begin.
Snowpack is at 180% of normal.
There is no warning system for failure.
If an earth-filled dam flows over the top, it will be quickly dissolve and disappear downstream in a raging flood of epic proportions.
About 10,000 Ravalli County residents die… but there is no warning system and no realistic plan.
What could possibly go wrong?
I’m sure there is nothing to be worried about. So I won’t worry.
However, I will be alert. And I think I will finally pack that 72-hour bag that has been (obviously too low) on my ToDo list for a decade.
Unfortunately, this could seriously impact my plans for the weekend – even if it is only a regular flood stage or the threat thereof.