Severe Flooding in Libby, Montana
In Libby, Montana, a powerful stream from Libby Creek has caused significant destruction, wiping out a bridge and overtaking a road.
On December 11, spectators watched in disbelief as the force of the creek brought down the Farm-to-Market Road bridge, leaving nothing but debris in its wake.
Footage captures the moment a massive concrete slab was engulfed by the raging waters.
An atmospheric river event has delivered substantial moisture to the Northwest, impacting Lincoln County in particular.
Like several other communities in the region, Lincoln County is grappling with flooding that has submerged primary roads and necessitated evacuations.
The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office reported that at least five bridges were either heavily damaged or completely destroyed. Emergency response teams, along with transportation officials, are currently assessing the situation and leading recovery efforts.
Due to the extensive flooding, authorities have issued a boil water advisory for Libby, warning of potential bacterial contamination in the drinking water supply.
The Lincoln County Health Department stated, “Our public water supplies are experiencing high turbidity due to countywide flooding.”
The CDC indicates that a boil water advisory suggests that harmful bacteria may be present in the area’s water system.
In response to the flooding crisis, Montana Governor Greg Gianforte enacted an executive order on December 11, declaring a state of emergency for Libby as more rain is anticipated.
