The combination of late snowpack, warm temperatures and predicted rains are increasing the potential for flooding and associated damages across the Idaho Panhandle National Forests.

Visitors to the forest are urged to use caution and avoid swollen creeks, streams and rivers throughout north Idaho. The exceptional levels of snowmelt and rain are also expected to cause damage to forest roads and trails due to the potential for washouts, rutting and generally muddy conditions.

“As this year’s big snowpack melts we may need to implement temporary closures on some roads and trails due to unsafe conditions,” said Jim Gebhardt, Forest Engineer for the Idaho Panhandle National Forests. “We don’t want to see anybody hurt, or worse, so it is critically important that people exercise caution and obey temporary road and trail closures when they encounter them.”

Most forest roads in the higher elevations remain closed due to seasonal closures, but at lower elevations conditions will be monitored and additional closures may be required. Members of the public are encouraged to contact their local Forest Service District offices to check the status of current closures before venturing into the forest.