Yes, we do have floods in Yellowstone County. Wherever there's a river, you can be sure there will be some flooding. The floodplain regulations shall apply to all lands within the jurisdiction of the County of Yellowstone, Montana.
Flooding occurs when water overflows onto normally dry land. In Billings, this can be triggered by a variety of factors, including heavy thunderstorms and slow-moving storm systems, which can drop large amounts of rain in a short period. Overflow from the Yellowstone River and nearby creeks also contributes to flooding, especially when water levels rise rapidly. Additionally, saturated ground from previous rainfall or snowmelt can limit absorption, increasing surface runoff. Areas with burn scars or poor drainage are particularly vulnerable, as they intensify runoff and reduce the land’s ability to manage excess water.
The Yellowstone River is the primary flood threat in the area, posing significant risks during periods of heavy rainfall or snowmelt. Flash flooding is possible, particularly in low-lying neighborhoods and areas with poor drainage, where water can accumulate rapidly. To stay informed, residents can monitor real-time water levels and flood alerts through the USGS Yellowstone River Gauge.
It's important to be prepared for potential flooding by knowing evacuation routes near key areas such as MetraPark, South Billings Boulevard, and Airport Road. Homeowners should take preventative measures like clearing gutters, checking that sump pumps are functioning properly, and elevating valuables stored in basements. Additionally, consider purchasing flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), as standard homeowners insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage.
In the event of a flood, it is crucial to follow evacuation orders immediately, particularly if the Yellowstone River is rising rapidly. Avoid driving through flooded roads, such as Cerise Road or underpasses near downtown, as even shallow water can be dangerous. Stay clear of storm drains and fast-moving water—just six inches of moving water is enough to knock a person off their feet, posing serious safety risks.
Floodwaters can be hazardous, often containing sewage, chemicals, and debris, so it’s important to wear protective gear when cleaning up. Residents should use designated debris drop-off sites provided by the Yellowstone County Solid Waste Division to safely dispose of damaged materials. It's also essential to document all damage thoroughly for insurance claims and to seek assistance from organizations like the Red Cross or local shelters if needed.
The floodplain regulations shall apply to all lands within the jurisdiction of the County of Yellowstone, State of Montana, shown on maps and other documents as being located within a 100-year floodplain as described below:
The floodplain maps referenced above shall be on file in the Office of the Yellowstone County Floodplain Administrator.
The boundaries of the 100-year floodway shall be determined by scaling distances on the Official Floodplain Maps and using the floodway data table contained in the flood insurance study report. The maps may be used as a guide for determining the 100-year floodplain boundary, but the exact location of the floodplain boundary shall be determined where the base flood elevation intersects the natural ground.
For unnumbered A Zones and AO Zone floodplains, where there is a conflict between a mapped floodplain boundary and actual field conditions, the Floodplain Administrator may interpret the location of the 100-year floodplain boundary based on field conditions or available historical flood information.