Bitter cold temps cause concern

With extremely cold temperatures in the forecast for this week, there is a good chance we will see the Bighorn River begin freezing over with minor or major ice jams possible.

According to the National Weather Service, as of Monday, Dec. 19, temperatures are forecast to be -28 Wednesday night, -14 is the predicted high on Thursday with a low of -30 Thursday night, followed by a high of around zero on Friday.

During these bitter cold temperatures, it is important to keep children, pets and yourself safe from the harsh conditions. Also, remember to look after your neighbors and the elderly.

Be ready in case of power failures and have a plan. Keep your vehicle’s gas tank mostly full.

Those traveling should ensure their vehicles are equipped with food, warm clothes and fuel in preparation for potentially being stuck on the side of the road for an extended period of time.

Be sure and keep children and pets away from the river. It will become very dangerous when the freeze takes place and when ice jams begin forming.

On Monday, Bill Gordon, of Hot Springs County Emergency Management, held a brief meeting with team members from interested agencies. He outlined the protocol for informing agencies as this event takes shape.

This week’s temperatures are going to be similar to the last week of 2014 in Hot Springs County. That year, ice jams formed in the river and destroyed the boat dock in Hot Springs State Park.