The following are generalized discussions of the flood potential due to snowmelt in the Eastern Great Basin drainage as of March 1, 1999. Discussions are segregated by state. It is important to understand that the potential for flooding may increase dramatically if snowmelt accelerates rapidly due to above normal temperatures or if significant rain events occur.

UTAH: The potential for flooding due to snowmelt runoff is not high at this time in the Great Salt Lake Basin. The snowpack is near or below average at most locations with the exception of the Bear River basin where a few areas of above average snowpack exist. In the Bear River Basin snowpack ranges from 90-125 percent of average, with 70-90 percent of average values elsewhere. Snowmelt runoff volumes between 80 to 105 percent of average are expected over most of the area.

The potential for flooding due to snowmelt runoff is not high at this time in the Sevier Lake Basin. Snowpack in this area is near to below average above 8500 feet and much below average at lower elevations. Active snowmelt has already been observed and April-July runoff volumes are expected to range between 50 to 80 percent of average.

IDAHO: The potential for flooding due to snowmelt runoff is not high at this time in the Bear River Basin of Idaho. The snowpack is near average in this area and at this early point in the season flood related problems due solely to snowmelt is not anticipated.April-July runoff volumes this area are expected to range from 80 to 100 percent of average.

It is still somewhat early to make a concrete evaluation of the flood potential since snow accumulation typically continues in the mountains into April. Therefore the flood threat could easily change over the next few weeks.