The Western Montana All-Hazards Incident Management Team assumed command of the Libby Flood Response at 8:00 AM on December 15, 2025.

For non emergency flood related questions in Lincoln County, residents can call the Flood Information call center at (406) 293-6295.

Key Weather Message: A significant cold front is expected to impact Lincoln County, bringing widespread rain and potentially damaging winds. Valley locations could see gusts over 60 miles per hour, with higher elevations possibly exceeding 80 miles per hour. Now is the time to prepare.

  • Preparation steps you can take before the storm arrives:
    1. Secure loose items
    -Strong winds can turn everyday objects into dangerous projectiles. Bring inside or firmly secure items like inflatable decorations, patio furniture, trash cans, grills, and yard equipment.
    2. Prepare for power outages
    -High winds and rain may bring down trees and power lines.
    -Charge phones and backup batteries.
    -Have flashlights ready and avoid using candles.
    -Know how to safely use generators if you have one and never operate them indoors or near windows.
    3. Check on neighbors
    -Please look out for elderly neighbors, people with disabilities, and anyone who may need extra help preparing or responding if conditions worsen.
    4. Plan to hunker down
    -Avoid unnecessary travel once winds increase.
    -Park vehicles away from trees and power lines.
    -Stay indoors and away from windows during peak wind periods.
  • Additional reminders:
    -Keep pets indoors and ensure livestock have shelter from wind and exposure.
    -Monitor trusted weather sources and local emergency updates.
    -If you encounter downed power lines, stay far away and report them immediately.

Taking a few simple steps now can help protect your family, your property, and your neighbors. Please share this message to help spread the word.

Lower Flower Creek Diversion Dam:
The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) administers dam safety, floodplain management, and community assistance programs for Montana communities. The Lower Flower Creek Diversion Dam is owned by the City of Libby. After damage was reported to the structure following the recent flooding, the city and DNRC’s Dam Safety Program coordinated inspection of the diversion structure by licensed engineers with expertise in dam safety. Engineers on site reported that damage was due to seepage along the structure’s side and increased water levels, resulting in erosion. Engineers and a construction crew took actions on the evening of December 14 to lower the dam’s water level. Additional work was conducted on the morning of December 15 to stabilize the damaged area. By reducing the water level in the reservoir and stabilizing the damaged area, the risk of failure was reduced, diminishing the downstream impacts and ensuring the municipal water supply was not impacted long-term. Engineers will continue to be onsite and monitor the situation.

Municipal Water:

Libby remains under a boil water order at this time. Please continue to boil tap water for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, and food preparation unless you are using bottled water. Updates will be shared as soon as conditions change and the boil water order is lifted.

Bottled water is available for residents who need it and is being distributed at the Red Cross Shelter located at the Memorial Center, 111 E. Lincoln Boulevard in Libby.

Thank you for your patience and for helping share accurate information with others in the community.

Local Resources:
Shelter
The American Red Cross has established a shelter in Libby for displaced residents. The shelter is located at the Memorial Events Center, 111 E. Lincoln Boulevard, Libby. It is staffed daily from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Residents in need of shelter should arrive during these hours. Drinking water is also available to residents during regular business hours.

Sandbag locations
Lincoln County is providing sand and sandbags at no cost to the public at the following locations in Libby:

  • Pioneer Park
  • 190 Wards Road
  • Lincoln County Shop, 674 County Shop Road

Damage on Private Property:
Lincoln County residents who experienced damage during the recent flooding are encouraged to complete the Flood Damage Self-Reporting Survey, now available online at the following link:


This survey is an important tool to help the State of Montana understand the full scope of flood impacts—beyond public infrastructure—and assess how individuals and households have been affected. The information collected will help determine whether there are forms of assistance that could be brought in to support recovery efforts.

If you sustained any damage to your home, property, or belongings, please take a few minutes to report it. Your input is vital to ensuring that community needs are accurately represented.

Asbestos:
The recent flooding events in Lincoln County have raised concerns about the potential release and redistribution of Libby Amphibole (LA) Asbestos containing materials. While the potential for LA asbestos release exists, there is not immediate danger currently identified. Inspection of flood impacted areas for LA containing materials will take place once floodwaters have receded. If areas of concern are identified further actions may take place to protect human health and the environment. Please contact the Asbestos Resource Program if you observe any vermiculite containing materials or if you have any further questions or concerns.

Debris Management:
The County is currently assessing debris within streams that resulted from flooding and is prepared to implement debris management operations if needed following the incoming cold front.

 

DEPARTMENT CONTACTS
Mr. Boyd White
Lincoln County
Emergency Management Agency
512 California Ave
Libby, MT 59923-1916
lcema@libby.org
Office: 1-406-293-7781
Cell: 1-406-334-7194