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Resolution No. R25-19
RESOLUTION NO. R25-19 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL AUTHORIZING THE ADOPTION OF THE 2024 EASTERN MONTANA REGION HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN AND ANNEX K FOR YELLOWSTONE COUNTY. WHEREAS, the City of Laurel recognizes the threat that natural hazards pose to people and property within our community; WHEREAS, undertaking hazard mitigation actions will reduce the potential for harm to people and property from future hazard occurrences; WHEREAS, an adopted Hazard Mitigation Plan is required as a condition of future funding for mitigation projects under multiple Federal Emergency Management Agency pre - and post- disaster mitigation grant programs; WHEREAS, Yellowstone County, City of Laurel resides within the Planning Area, and fully participated in the mitigation planning process to prepare this Hazard Mitigation Plan; and WHEREAS, the Montana Disaster & Emergency Services and Federal Emergency Management Agency, Region VIII officials have reviewed the 2024 Eastern Montana Region Hazard Mitigation Plan and related Annex K for Yellowstone County and approved it contingent upon this official adoption of the participating governing body. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel, Montana, as follows: That the City Council of the City of Laurel hereby adopts the Eastern Montana Region Hazard Mitigation Plan and related Annex K for Yellowstone County, as an official plan; and 2. That the City of Laurel, in conjunction with Yellowstone County, will submit this Adoption Resolution to the Montana Disaster & Emergency Services and Federal Emergency Management Agency, Region VIII officials to enable the Plan's final approval. Introduced at a regular meeting of the City Council on the 11 th day of March 2025, by Council Member Mackay. PASSED and APPROVED by the City Council of the City of Laurel the 11th day of March 2025. R25-19 Approve the Adoption of the 2024 Eastern Montana Region Hazard Mitigation Plan and Annex K for Yellowstone County APPROVED by the Mayor the 1 I Ih day of March 2025. I i ur„" OF LAUR �� SEAL Dave Waggoner, J''•. ATTEST: e y tre r, lerk-Treasurer APPROVED AS TO FORM: 91-6ttLL Michele L. Braukmann, Civil City Attorney R25-19 Approve the Adoption of the 2024 Eastern Montana Region Hazard Mitigation Plan and Annex K for Yellowstone County EASTERN MONTANA Pegional Flazard Mitigation Plan 2024-2029 G a Horn Count/ Carbon County Carter County Crow Agency Custer County Duniels Count' Dorm County Fallen County Oarfleld Craursty Co!den Valley County McCone County Musselshell County Pknwder River County Prairie County Richland County Raos'elt County Rosebud County Sheridan County Stillwater county Treasure County Valley County Wibaux County Yellowstone County a,n•m MmHn, Ragitn f m Midg,eon R,n Tml• of cmbno Conton" 1 Introduction........_..... .... ___...... _.... _....... _........... __......... ............ _.... ........ ............................... ......... _........ 1-1 1.1 Exekvtive Summary__._.�....____.__._..._....-._......_ .......................__.___.1-T 12 Purpose.._._..._..____._.._.._.____......,....--.-..........___................_._.._..._..-_1-2 13 Background and Scope -------- I to Plan Organization.__.....-. 15 Multi -Jurisdictional Planning___...___...._________._____._.________.__ 1-4 2 Region Profile_ ._.......... _._...__-_-_-.__.--..__.-_______.__.-..._2-1 2.1 Geography and 2-1 22 Population_.___._.___.--___. --2-5 23 Development Trmds.____-_....._.__..._�.__._.........__2-6 2AEconomy...._..___....__._.._.._._.__._..._.__.__...__T___...-._._...�_...._-....2-7 2.5 Capability Assessment_..____.__-._.`__.____..:______..._,._.._.._..._ 2-9 3 Planning Pro cess....__.._._...... _.____.._ _._____.____..__....._..... 3-1 3.1 Background on Mitigation Planning in Eastern Montana __.._._______.__ ....... _......... 3.1 32 Government Participation.__... --------- 33 The 10-Step Planning Process _..........._____..._.__.-___.____._..____ .......... _........ ._. 3.4 33.1 Phase 1:Organize Resources__..-...._._.__...._�.._._....__._..._......3-5 332 333 Phase 3: Develop the Mitigation Plan.___.._......________._.._._....3-14 33.4 Phase 4: Implement the Plan and Monitor Progress-__ _3-16 3A Tribal Mitigation Planning 35 EPA Regional Resilience Toolkit 4 4.1 Hazard identification ......... ..._._.......... -_.__.4.1 4.1.1 Results and Methodology_._________..__._.._._ ....... __..___..._.._......4-1 4.12 Other Hazards Considered but netProfiled_.._.___ _._.._.............. _4-3 4.13 Disaster Dederaton History_ ----- _..__....._...._...__._.__._._ ... ........ 4-3 4.1.A National Risk Index Overview_..._..____..__.____._._......._4-6 4.1S Assets Summary._..__....__._..._..___.____...__ .... __._..__._._.__._..__...._4-B 4.1.6 Social Vulnerability_ ___....... ___..___.______._.____..___._ ----- 4-11 4.2 Hazard Profiles....____ ......... _..__.__.___._____......._..___.._.___ ...... ....4-17 42.1 Profile Methodology ._........... ___.___..___.... __._._ ....... __._..._.____4.17 422 Communicable Disease ... _...... __..._.._._.._..._..__........__.._.__..._.__.._.4-20 423Cyber-Attadk__...._..__......_______....�........ _....... __.__ ................ __..__....... 4-29 42A Dam Failure______._...._______.___._._.___.4-37 425 425 Earthquake____.....___._._.._.__...._._._._.._...___.____.4-fi9 42.7 Flooding. ._______.__..___.___.._._... _.... _._...___._.._...._._.........._A-86 42.8 Hazardous Materials 4.29 Landslide _..... _...... ......... .._......._.___._..__..._...____..._.._._._...4-113 42.10 Severe Summer Weather .... _.._.._..._..-._.._..._.._.__..._._.._..___ .......... 4-124 42.11 SevereWinter Weather_ ....... ___.._.__...__.______.___._.4-149 42.12 Human Conflict____.______.__:._.____...____._._____4-172 Wa M_ P•gion f1,r,N MiCg,tion Phn Teak of kbnrmk 42.13 Tomsdoes&Wndstonns.......__... ....... _....._ __..___...._...... .___4-182 4.2.14 Transportation Accidents ....... ... _._......._...... ._....._....._..._...___.....,__.4-205 4.2.15 Volcanic Ash .........__.._....._.___._.._...._._... .... ... ...... ........_4-216 42.16 Wldfire.._....._._____..._._._..._... _.... ............. _.__. .- .._....___.. 4-224 5 Mitigation Strategy..... _._.._._......._.._..__....-........._............ ...... .._....__......... .... ..._....... .... 5.1 5.1 Mitigation Strategy.Overview..... ,...... _._............ ..... ...._.__.. _________...__._..-.._5.1 52 Mitigation Goals ._.____ ____.___._------- __..__._._.___._____.. _.____...__. 5-1 53 Identification and Analysis of Mitigation Actions-.......__... ......... _____._._. 53.1 Praritization Process__.-___.._.._.__._......_...._._.___.._.____.__.._.._.5-3 SA Mitigation Action Plan _...... __.__._.__. SAA Progress on Previous Mitigation Actions .. SA2 Continued Compliance with NFIP. _ ........................ 5-5 SA-3 Mitigation Action Plan. __.__....__...._._.__ ..... ._....-.._____...__._....,__. 5-6 6 Plan Adoption, ImplementatioR and Maintenance _.._....._.... -______..__. 6-1 6.1 Formal Adoption 6-1 6.2 Implementation ...._.___.._....... .._._._..____.._....._.__.___.._.._._.__....._ 6-1 62.1 Role of Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee in Implementation and Maintenance....____._......._.._........._... __._._....___......_.... __.__._............. _................ 6-2 6.3 Plan Maintenance._._..._..__.________..___._...___..._.. 6.2 6.3.1 Maintenance Schedule._____.._._....._._._ ...... _�..__......._.__.__._6-3 632 Maintenance Evaluation Process___.___...._.-..__.___.-_..._..__.--._._. 6-3 633 Incorporation into Existing Planning Mechanisms...___..-._.__......__.-._._. 6-4 63A Continued Public Involvement. ..___.......... __.___.._____.__...._._.._..... 6-5 Jurisdictional Annexes A Carbon County B. Crow Tribe C Custer County D. Daniels County E Garfield County F. Powder River County G. Prairie County H. Roosevelt County I. Sheridan County /. Valley County Y Yellowstone County Jurisdictional Addendums L Big Hom County M. Carer County N. Dawson County O. Fallan County P. Golden Valley County Q McCone County R. Musselshell County S. Richland County T. Rosebud County U. Stillwater County V. Treasure County W. Wbaux County Appendices. • Appendix A Hazard Mitigation Planning Committees • Appendix B Planning Process Documentation • Appendix C Public Input • Appendix D Adoption Resolutions and Plan Approval • Appendix E References Grtem Mont,iu Peq�on -H Mitigation R,n uw•ot cnmaan I introduction Eash•m MaNna Pegion Hamad Miega�on flm InvoduNan 1.1 Executive Summary The Eastern Montana Region Hazard Mitigalian Plan (HMP) is the product of a regional planning process coordinated by Montana Disaster & Emergency Services (MT DES) in 2022-2023 to develop regional hazard mitigation plans covering the entire State of Montana. The following jurisdictions have prepared this Plan and will adopt it once it has been approved: • Big Him County o Tawm of Bmadus o Gtyof Hardin Prairie County o Tiwn of Lodge Grass o Town of Terry • Carbon County • Richland County o Town of Bearcreek o Town of Fairview o Town of Bridger o Townof5idney o Town of Fromberg Roosevelt County o Town ofJoliet o City of Wolf Point o City of Red Lodge o City of Poplar • Carter County o Town of Bainville o Town cf Ekalaka o Town of Culbertson • Crow Tribe o Tom of Froid • Custer County • Rosebud County o Gtyof Miles Gty o Gty of Cohtrip o Town of Ismay o Gtyof Forsyth • Daniels County • Sheridan County o Gtyof Scobay o Gtyof Plentywood o Town of Flaxville o Town of Medicine Lake • Dawson County o Town of Outlook o Gtyof Glendive o Tormof Westby o Town if Ridley • Stillwater County • Fallon County i Town of Columbus o Gtyof Baker • Treasure County o Town of P[a-a o Tavm of Hysham • Garfield County Valley County o Town iflirdan o Gtyof Glasgow • Golden Valley County o Town of Fort Peck o Town cf Ryegate o Tawn of Nashua o Town of Lavin o Town of Opheim • McCone County • Wbaux County o Town of Grde o Town of Wbaux • Musselshell County • Yellowstone County o Town I'Melstone o Gtyof Billings o Town of Roundup o Town of Broadview • Powder River County o Gtyof Laurel The purpose of hazard mitigation's to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property from disasters or hazard events. The impacts of hazards can often be lessened or even avoided if appropriate Fanmr Montana Pagian Havrd Mibgaoon Plan Idm . actions are taken before events occur. Studies have found that hazard mitigation is extremely cost-effective, with every dollar spent an mitigation saving an average of $6 in avoided future losses. By reducing exposure to known hazard risks, communities will save lives and property and minimize the social, economic, and environmental disruptions that commonly follow hazard events. The 2023 Eastern Montana Region HMP (also referred to as Rlanj will serve as a blueprint for coordinating and irrplementing hazard mitigation policies, programs, and projects across the Region. It identifies mitigation goals and related actions to assist the participating jurisdictions in reducing risk and preventing loss from future hazard events. The goals of the 2023 Eastern Montana Region HMP are: Goal 1: Reduce impacts to people, property, the environment, and the economy from hazards by implementing whole -community risk reduction and resilience strategies. Goal 2: Protect community lifelines and critical infrastructure to ensure the continuity of essential services during and after a disaster. Goal 3: Support education and outreach to the public through improved communications and capacity building that enhances resilience anong underserved communitles. Goal 4: Promote regional cooperation and leverage partnerships with the private sector, non-profit organizations, and other key stakeholder groups in mitigation solutions. Goal S: Sustain and enhancejurisdictional capabilities and resources to enact and Implement mitigation activities. Goal & Integrate hazard mitigation into other plans, processes, and regulations. Goal 7: Ensure local mitigation programs address underrepresented groups and protect socially vulnerable populations. Goal a: Incorporate the potential impacts of climate change into all mitigation activities when possible. These goals ware tailored for the Eastern Region during group exercises at a series of mitigation strategy workshops. This Plan was also developed to maintain the participating jurisdictions eligibility for federal disaster assistance, specifically the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) grants including the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), Flood Mitigation Assistance FM pmgram, and Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program, as well as the Rehabilitation of High Hazard Potential Dam (HHPD) grant program. It is important that local decision -makers stay involved in mitigation planning to provide new ideas and insight for future updates to the Regional HMP. As a long -tens goal. the Regional HMP and the mitigation strategies identified within will be fullyintegrated into the daily decisions and routines of local government This will continue to require dedication and hard work, and to this and, this Plan update continues efforts to further strengthen the resiliency of the Eastern Region. 1.2 Purpose The participatingjurisdidions of the Eastern Montana Region prepared this Regional HMP to guide hazard mitigation planning and to better protect the people and property of the planning area from the effects of hazard events This Plan demonstrates the Region's commitment to reducing risks from hazards end serves as a tool to help decision -makers direct midgatm activities and resources. This Plan also maintains the jurisdictions eligibility for federal mitigation grants under FEMA's HMA grant programs. This Plan demonstrates the Region and partidpating jurisdictions' cammitment to reducing risks from hazards and serves as a tool to help derision -makers direct mitigation activities and resources. 4Y•m Martana a•gion H+ad Mi4gaeon Plan Inwdamam 1.3 Background and Scope Each year in the United States, disasters take the lives of hundreds of people and injure thousands more. Natiomvide, tmlpayers pay billions of dollars annually to help communities, organizations, businesses, and individuals recover from disasters. These monies only partially reflect the true cost of disasters because additional expenses to insurance companies and nongovernmental organizations (NGOS) are not reimbursed by tax dollars Many disasters are predictable, and muds of the damage caused by these events an be alleviated or even eliminated. Hazard mitigation is defined by FEMA as any sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to human fife and property from a hazard event The results of a three-year, congressionally mandated independent study to assess future savings from mitigation activities provides evidence that mitigation activities are highly cost-effective.On average, eadr dollar spent on mitigation saves society an average of 16 in avoided future losses in addition to saving lives and preventing injuries (Natural Hazard Mitigation Saves, 2019 Report). Hazard mitigation planning is the process 0vough which hazards that threaten communities are identified, fikely impacts of those hazards are determined, mitigation goals are set, and appropriate strategies to lessen impacts are developed, prioritized, and implemented. This Plan documents the planning regions hazard mitigation planning process, identifies relevant hazards and ride, and identifies the strategies that each participating jurisc ietion will use to decrease wlnembifdy and increase resiliency and sustainabifity. This Plan was prepared pursuant to the requirements of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-390) and the implementing regulations set forth by the Interim Final Rule published in the Federal Register on February 26, 2002 (44 Code of Federal Regulations [CFR] 52016) and finafzed on October 31, 2007 (hereafter, these requirements and regulations will be referred to collectivelyas the Disaster Mitigation Act (DMA)). While the DMA emphasized the need for mitigation plans and more coordinated mitigation planning and implementation efforts, the regulations established the requirements that local hazard mitigation plans must meet for a localjurisdiction to be eligible for certain federal disinter assistance and hazard mitigation funding under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Act (Public Law 93- 288). Because the Eastern Region planning area is subject to many kinds of hazards, access to these programs is vital. Information in this Plan will be used to help guide and coordinate mitigation activities and decisions for local land use policy in the future. Proactive mitigation planning will help reduce the cost of disaster response and recovery to communities and property owners by protecting critical community facilities, reducing liability exposure, and minimizing overall community impacts and disruption. Thejurisdictiam in the Eastem Region planning area have been affected by hazards in the past and are thus committed to reducing future disasterimpacts and maintaining eligibility for federal funding. 1.4 Plan Organization The Eastern Montana Region HMP is organized in afignment with the DMA planning requirements and the FEMA plan review tool as follows • Chapter 1: Introduction Chapter 2: Region Profile • Chapter 3: Planning Process Chapter 3.4: Hazard Analysis and Risk Assessment Chapter 5: Mitigation Strategy Chapter6: Plan Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance Ui.m Montana xe9ion Hamad M'ir,Plan Inaoduaion • County and Tribal Annexes and Addendums Appendices Each annex provides a more detailed assessment of eadijurisdicdon s unique risks as well as their mitigation strategy to reduce long-term losses. Each annex contains the following: Mitigation Planning and County Planning Team Community Profile • Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment • Vulnerability to Specific Hazards • Mitigation Capabilities Assessment • Mitigation Strategy • Plan Implementation and Maintenance When this Plan was organized and initiated in 2022 several counties in the Region had recently approved HMPs. It was determined by MT DES and FEMA Region Vill to only require implementation updates associated with the mitigation strategy in an Addendum that complied with current FEMA policy guidance and aligned with and supplemented the counties existing HMP, rather than conducting new analysis in an Annex. Each addendum disasses the following topics, as each relates to plan implementation and maintenance: • Mitigation Planning Summary Overview of the jurisdiction's recently approved HMP's progress • Social Vulnerability • Hazard Events within the P farming Area (natural hazard events that have occurred since thalurisdictians HMP was recently, approved) • Changes in Risk Exposure in the Planning Area • Mitigation Capabilities Assessment • Review of the Mitigation Action Plan 1.5 Multi -Jurisdictional Planning This Plan was prepared as a regional, multi jurisdictional plan The Eastern Montana Region is comprised of 23 counties and three tribal reservations, as established by MT DES. All tribes, counties, and incorporated municipalities in the Region were invited to participate in the planning process. The Fort Peck Tribes, as known as Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes; Northern Cheyenne Tribe; and Wheatland County elected not to participate in the Regional plan. Wheatland County and Northern Cheyenne Tribe elected net to participate due to limited staff and resources the Fort Ped: Tribes did not participate because they were already developing a full HMP update. All other tribes, counties, and incorporated municipalities fully participated in the planning process, and have committed to adopt and implement the Regional HMP. The participatingjurisdictions seeking FEMA approval of this plan are fisted in Section 1.1. Faslxn Mmuna Pegim Haurd MiG9ation Nan 0.egian Profle 2 Region Profile This section provides a brief overview of the geography of the planning area. A base map of the planning nagion is illustrated in Figure 2-1 below. 2.1 Geography and Climate The Eastern Montana Region is comprised of the following 22 counties and one tribal reservation that participated in the Regional HMP planning process: • Big Him County Powder River County • Carbon County • Prairie County • Carter County . Richland County • CrowTribe . Roosevelt County • Custer County . Rosebud County • Daniels County . Sheridan County • Dawson County Stillwater County • Fallon County Treasure County • Garfield County Valley County • Golden Valley County Wibaux County • McCone County Yellowstone County • Musselshell County The Eastern Region is dominated by praide landscape as part of the Great Plains. Some parts of eastem Montana, in areas =at prone to drying chinooks, have near -desert conditions and scrub rather than grassland. Eastern Montana also has breaks and highlands that are widely forested, such as the Custer National Forest and areas around Fort Peck Lake. Eastern Montana has a semi -arid steppe climate with low precipitation that is to some extent countered by low evaporation rates. According to Western Regional Climate Center (WRCQ, probably the driest part of Montana is along the Clark Fork of the Yellowstone River in Carbon County. In this area, eight miles south-southwest of Belfry, the average precipitation for a 16-year period is 6S9 inches. In the Eastern Region, summers are short but hot and winters are long, cold, and extremely variable. The m jor rivers that flow through the Eastern Region include the Missouri River, Yellowstone River, Milk River, Clark's Fork Big Hom, Powder River, and Tongue River. The Missouri River, the longest river in the United States and Yellowstone County, the most populous county in Montana, are both included in the Eastern Region. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NDAA) National Centers for Environmental Information also noted that tomadoes occur almost entirely in the Eastem Region. Blizzards are also most common in the northeastern part of the State, occurring about five times per year. The eastern part of the State an also experience bitterly cold temperatures, occasionally lower than —30'F. Major roadways include Interstate 94, Interstate 90, Highway 2, Highway 12, Highway 212, Highway 59, and Highway 97. Figure 2-2 below shows the land ownership within Eastern Montana. As mentioned previously, the Eastem Region receives lower annual precipitation compared to the western part of the State. Precipitation is typically higher in the southeastern portion of the region compared to the northwestern portion. The Eastern Region also experiences distinct seasom. Spring and fall tend to be relatively short transitional periods, with mild temperatures. The Eastern Region an also experience rapid weather changes, with significant temperature swings during these seasons. Winters in the Eastem Region are cold, with average temperatures ranging from the 20s`F to the low 30s'F. Temperatures can drop well amen, Mmtana Pagim H -Mitigatbn Pon Paglm P.N. below freezing, and snowfall is common. Blizzards and strong winds can occur during the winter mon0ls, creating hazardous travel conditions. Summers are generally hot and dry, with average high temperatures ranging from the upper BN*F to 90s'F. Heatwaves are not uncommon, and temperatures can occasionally exceed 1007 during the hottest months of July and August Additional geography and climate data for each Jurisdiction within the Eastem Region can be found in the Community Profile section of each Jurisdictional annex and addendum. Pgwv 2.1 f•alam MonYn.Ppien Baw Map uPaoa •,ter., ' � � •r., I _ t'1wG 1 for �w is w... f41t NW rgw•z-a r•dx•I Ind.•nd IM ar•rvaa•nM..- .; k Eastem Mmuna Re9im HuaN raitigauaa non U.. Montam Region Hand MitiWwr Plea Region Prone Regon Profile 2.2 Population Table 2-1 summarize; the estimated popubtion and population change for the Eastern Region planning area a; a whole and for the individual counties. Data is based on the De —vial Census aid Amarican Community 5uney (ACS) Five-Yem Estimates data from the US Census Bureau Carter, Fallon, htussebhell, Richland, and Yellowstone Counties have experienced significant growth over the past decade. Daniels, Garfield, Golden Valley, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, and Wbatu Counties have experienced a net population lass. The Eastern Region was home to 25.4% ofMontana's total population of 1,104,271 in 2021. Overall, the Eastern Region is experiencing moderate growth, but the percent change varies by county within the Eastern Region. Table 2-1 Eastem Region Population Change Cmnty M®®®®®®®® 2010 Census . . 2916. Tat9nete 2017 I. Fatimate .2019 '6Yntrta 2012 . Fathneb'. 2020 Cemhn, 2021 . fatimate %Cutrga 20tOC9 2021 � .. L.S�SiJc,c.+_4_-a.•i:..t�-.1_.1i{�'.w�..Y:1v'.z>��t McCune County 1,729 1.54 -9.7% Musselshell Couny 4,730 3.970 -15.1% Powder RicerCounty 11694 7,311 40.6% Prafde Caunry 1,IIB9 1.14 552% Richland Canty 11A91 10.712 -6.8% Roosevdm County 10,794 4790 -18.6% Rosebud County 4329 6,323 -24.1% Sheridan County 3539 3,097 -125% SO-w County 8.963 l;rn 43.6% TreuureCounty 762 1,007 322% VaOey County 7,578 1346 10.1% Wheatland County 937 2.334 12. Wbau.County 2069 LOW163% Yellowstone County 164.731 178.358 83% Totes 290A59 293.975 4.6% 2.4 Economy Figure 2-3 displays a breakdown of the total employment by industry statewide According to the 2020 US Census, Montana's economy is largely based on the educational services, health care, and social assistance industry with 120,662 people. This is followed by retail trade with 63,971 total people. Third is arts, entertainment and recreation, and accommodation and food services with 59,115 people, followed by professional, scientific and management. and administrative and waste management services with 45,656 people. These fow sectors comprise 56%of employment in the Eastem Region. eanem M mtana Re9ian Hoard Mit,tion non Ea— Montana Region tta MMitigationMn Regim Profile Region Profile County 2010 ases C 2016 Estimate 2017 Fstimeta 2018 Estimate 2019 Eatbneta 2020 Cameos 2C21 Estimate %Charge 2010 to 2021 t-anm,..t.. wws p.n w.a. mH.. county cow tiv:aoa papJabmrn. Las Pwl• ae�ea rone 2-Rut^a m5n aOi. phn Yaeov,4uw Ca„y,wW en4 m2h PeP3aam arrow rlu corkammre ha . an daamlm.nargtl,e us c.,.e ew..w.na s.. ta. � wn.9,e.a, aean.ln. mrz P".aa.smne. ro,rm..ra. ceu,no.rt, hesd53.gyair9 mm.Ms s-1 mmmra, WrollOWimuea[ 2.3 Development Trends The population of the Eastern Region has been consistently growing since 2010, and the Montana Department of Commerce projects that this growth will continue through the year 2040. Please note that the population change projections for Tribal Nations are not available. Table 2-2 below lists the projected 2040 populations of each county within the Eastern Region. Counties such as Yellowstone, Big Hom, Custer, and Richland have seen some of the greatest concentrations of population growth and urban development in the Eastern Region and the State, although not all these counties' populations are projected to inoease by 2040. Based on the estimates from the Montana Department of Commerce, through the year 2040, Treasure, Powder River, Garfield, and Stillwater counties are projected to see the highest rates of population increase. Additional details on specific growth and development trends are provided in each coumy's respective annex and addendum. Table 2.2 Eastem Montana 2020 C.— and 2040 Projection Big Hom Cany 13,124 11,178 -14A% Carbon County 10,473 13,C5 282% Carter County 1.415 1A64 35% CusterCwny 11,867 to= -8A36 Daniels County 17.661 1,534 -7.6% Dawson County 8.940 4067 -9.8% Fallon County 3A49 2.910 -4.6% Garfield Corny 1.171 121 263% Goden Valley Cany 873 005 221% Figure 2.3 Mont— Industry Type by Percentage of7otal Workers Employed 120,000 100,ow 64000 40,0W 20 000 a� Y sous usuwamm,r qwm ,.ti!ka_.._:.<s �' __ Fasum Mo 1liegim Hoard Mitig. nHan WM Pmfae 2.5 Capability Assessment Included in this Regional HMP is a capabii:ty assessment to review and document the Eastern Region planning areas current capabilities to mitigate risk and vulnerability from natural hazards. By collecting information about misting local and tribal government programs, policies, regulations, ordinances, and emergency plans, the planning team and MT DES can assess those activities and measures already in place that contribute to mitigating some of the risks and vulnerabilities identified. The capabilities assessment is divided into five sections.. regulatory mitigation capabilities, administrative and technical mitigation capabilities, financial mitigation capabilities, education and outreach, and mitigation partnerships. The results of this assessment are captured in eachjurisdictional annex and addendum. ranem Monona Pe9'.-Heard Mib,.b nHan Rannin9 Process 3 Planning Process Requirements f207.60) and f201.6(cX?): M open public into/wmentpercecs u essential to the desdopnent of= eryecrivepmn /n order to develop o mice comprehensive opp—ch to reducing the efi crs ofin...1 disasters, the planning prxess shall include: 1) Mepeomnlryfw tt pubtk to conrientm rheptan durhg the dmRlg s*,ge aMphor tuplun oppmvat' A Moppwtuniyforneighbodj cmununiom locofoMregiowl agirnies in -fed in hazodmitgation astir ;des, .Mogencia that hove the authadry to reg.lme derelopnant as well., businesses, orodemm, ad od-pnwte .M--pmhr imerats to be Involved in theplormlg process; aM 3) Review ad Worpomdan,i/oppmpsiategjf-adrgplonssrudies.reports aMtechnicolWormed— [Thepfan shall donune nl the pla..irgprxess ured to develop theplan including iww it was prepared, wt. was Mvaly din the process, oM how the public wos irrmMed. c Thbol Requbwnent f201.7(c)(1): IWumenmtim ofthepfomirg pmces used ro deve* Mepfan i ddirg baxe waspsepomd, who wu, invdvd In the process, and haw rhepuhllc was &—Ned. This shag inclde R Mopportunityfar thepublic to commenron the pion during the deft g singe ordprior toplon oppmval ixldirg is description cfhow the Idian aibal gwemmentdeffrrd'pubbr ' A, oppropf—, on oppoduni1yfo, nefghboh.9 mmmunitia, tdbol andMiorcl agencies involved in hamnimitganon ecdvities, cad ogenna dwthove the auth viiy to regulate development es a.. as businesses, ocodemio, aM other 3.1 Background on Mitigation Planning in Eastern Montana The ZG23 Eastern Montana Regional HMP is the first regional HMP for Eastern Montana. The plan's development over 2022-2023 will comply with the five-year update cycle required by the DMA 2000 going forward and reflects mitigation priorities for the five-year span between 2023-2028. Prior to 2023, the counties and tribes of Eastern Montana had adopted jurisdictional -specific hazard mitigation plans over the years. Table 3-1 provides a summary of when eachjudsdiction's hazard mitigation plan was originally developed, including the most recent adoption. Information on how thejudsdictions integrated the mitigation plan into other planning mechanisms can be found in Section 11.1 of each jurisdictional annea or addendum. Table 3-1 Eastern Montana Local and Tribal HMP History, Adoption, and Integration Big Hom County .2006 2022 Carbon county 2005 2021 Carta County 2005 2022 Crow Tribe 201q 2015 Custer County 2005 2017 Dan" County MOB 2016 Dawson County 2014 M22 Fallon County 2013 2022 Fewem M.Mam Fisq t-,1 Mid"tkin Mn HenNrg Process Garfield County 2007 2015 Golden V,Psy Count/ 2001 2022 McconeCounty 2014 2022 Musselshell County 2001 2022 Powder Ri—Couaty 2006 2015 Prairie County 20u5 M13 Richland County 2014 2022 Roosevelt County 200O 2017 Rosebud County 2007 2022 Sheridan County MOB 2017 Stiilw+tereounty 2010 2072 Treasure County 2007 2022 Valirycounty 2M 2017 Wibac, County 2014 M22 Yellowstonecounty 200a M79 Regional Planning. While each county and tribe in Montana has an Emergency Management Coordinator, MT DES has recogniced that the process of developing and updating DMA 2000 compliant HMPs can often be beyond local and tribal capabilities and expertise. Instead of each county and tribe hiring their own consultant MT DES took the lead in procuring and funding a professional hazard mitigation planning consultant through a competitive bid process. In 2022, WSP USA Environment Be Infrastructure Inc (WSP) s selected by MT DES to provide assistance to the Eastern Region under a multiyear, multiple region contract As the planning consultant WSP's role was to: • Provide guidance on a planning organization for the entire planning area representative of the participants; • Ensure the plan meets all the DMA requirements as established by federal regulations, following FEMA's most recent planning guidance; • Facilitate the entire planning process; • Identify,the data requirements that the participating counties. tribes, and municipalities could provide, and conduct the research and documentation necessary to augment that data; Develop and help facilitate the public input process; • Produce the draft and final plan documents; and • Ensure acceptance of the final Plan by MT DES and FEMA Region VIII. Prior to initiating the development of this Regional HMP in 2022, a substantial coordination effort took place to ensure the participation of the counties and tribes within Eastern Montana Each jurisdiction designated the Emergency Management Coordinator as the primary pointof contact Each Coordinatorwas required to undertake a coordination role within their respective counties to help fulfill DMA planning requirements. The county Emergency Management Coordinators then contacted tacit of the incorporated communities, offering them the opportunity to participate in the development of the Regional HMP. Most raWm Montaiu Ugim Heard Mity+tien Mn pl rW Pr — incorporated communities within the counties, as well as the tribes, chose to participate in the development of this Regional Plan. Figure 3-1 illustrates the regional planning framework Figuns 3-1 Eastem Montana Regional Hacard Mitigation Planning Committee Frarrwwurk Regional Project Oversight and Management Regional Steering Committee & Subregional Groups County & Mal Planning Teams The Emergency Management Coordin itorfrom each participating countyand tribe served on the Regional Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee (HMPC), as well as convening and facilitating a County Planning Team (CPT) or Tribal Planning Team (fPT) in concert with MT DES and the consultant team. 3.2 Government Participation The DMA planning regulations and guidance stress that each local and tribal government seeking FEMA approval of theirmitigation plan must participate in the planning effort in the foilowingways: Participate in the process as part of the Regional HMPC through participation in a CPT or TPT, Detail areas within the planning area where the risk differs from that facing the entire area, Identify spedfic pmjects to be eligible for funding, and • Have the governing board formally adopt the plan. For the Eastern Montana Regional HMP's HMPC'participation' meant Providing input by attending and participating in HMPC meetings. separate side-barmeetings, or emeil and phone correspondence; Establishing/reconvening a local steering committee; • Providing available data requested by the HMPC coordinator and planning consultant • Providing/updating the hazard profile and vulnerability details specific to jurisdictions; Developingfupdating the local mitigation strategy (action Items and progress); Eastem Momana mgion Hoam Mitigation flan Plnem Mdaana Ra9im Narasd Mitigation flan pl.'Wsi Receo Pl—, P__ • Advertising and assisting with the pu66c inputprocess; Reviewing and commenting on plan drafts; and • Ciord;rating the formal adoption of the plan by the govem:ng boards. This Regional Plan includes the participation of most of the counties and the munkipallties in Eastern Montana as noted in Chapter 1 and detailed further in Section 33.1. Dacumedt3tion of participation is included in Appendix 8 in the form of meeting sign -in sheets, meeting summaries, monthly meeting participation, and additional docwnenution. 3.3 The 10-Step Planning Prates+ The HMPC established the planning process for the Eastern Montana Region HMP using the DMA planning requirements and FEMA's associated guidance. This guidance is structured around a four -phase process: 1) Organize Resources 2) Assess Risks 3) Develop the Mitigation Plan 4) Implement the Plan and Monitor the Progress Into this four -phase process, WSP integrated a more detailed 10-step planning process used by FEMA's Community Rating System (CRS) and FMA programs. Thus, the modified 10-step process used for this plan meets the requirements of all of FEMA's HMA grant programs, the CRS program, and flood control projects authorized by the US Amy Corps of Engineers. Additionally, FEMA's May 2023 Local Mitigation Planning Handbook recommends a nine -task pmcess within the four -phase process Table 3-2 summarizes the four - phase DMA process, the detailed CRS planning steps and work plan used to develop the plan, the nine handbook planning tasks from FEMA's 2023 Local Mitigation Planning Handbook and where the results are captured in the Plan. Tribal elements of the Regional HMP were designed to be fully compliant with the requirements of 44 CFR 201.7 as detailed in FEMNs 2019 Tribal Multi -Hazard Mitigation Planning Guidance The sections that follow describe each planning step in more detail. Table 3.2 Mitigation Pli ming Proon Uwd to Davalap the Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan Phase t Organize Step i.Oganrse Resmres 1:Dec—in. the Planning Ares and Chapuns1,2,,d3 0.asourtes Reswres 2 Build the Planning Team 44 CFR Chepter3,Secdon 201.6(c)(1) 33.1 Step 2. Involve the public 3: Create w Outreach Strategy 44 CFR Chaptw3,Secdon 201.fs I) 33.1 Step 3. Coordnate with 4: Red— Community Capabilities 44 ChepW3,Secdm Odie,Agendes CFR 201.6(b)(2) tk (3) 33.1 and annexes Phase ltAssas St 4. Assess the hazard 5: Conduct a RiskAssesenent44 CFR Ch 4andii—es Risks Sun, 5. Assess the problerin 201.6( 44 CPR 201,6(1)(2)n B m Chapter 4anit annexes Phase Ili, Develop Ste 6Set ..Is 6: Develop a Mitigation Strelegy 44 CFR Chapter 5Section 52 the Mitigatim Step 7. Review, possible Z01.6(c)p)ni;M CFR Z01.6(cx3)Gi); and Chapter 5, Section 53 strategy activities 44 CFR 201. [ nfl Exec Montana mgim HmN Miupfion Ran Planning, Procas StepiDni an actin plan Chapter 5, Sectlon "3 end annexes Phase M:Adopl St,p 9. Adopt the plu, 8: Review and Adopt the Nen Cluicts,6 and Implement Step to. Implement 7, Keep the Plan Current Cha er6 the Phn evaluate, revise 9: Create is Safe and Resilient ChePt" 6 Canmun' 44 CFR 2(n. c 4 33.1 Phase 1: Organize Resources Planning Step 1: Organize the Planning Effort With eadsjudsdiction's commitment to developing a Regional Plan, WSP worked with MT DES and each County and Tribal Emergency Management Coordinator to establish the framework and organization for the process. Organizational efforts were initiated with each county to inform and educate the plan participants of the purpose and need for the Regional HMP. The planning consultant held an initial conference rail using Microsoft Teams (Teams) to convene the HMPC, discuss the organizational aspects of the planning process with the Emergency Management Coordinators, and review plan participation expectations. Following FEMA planning guidance, MT DES and the consultant directed each participating county and tribe to develop their respective planning teams, comprised of representative county, tribal, and municipal staff members, prior to this meeting to ensure complete representation and active participation in the plan update process In some instances, small jurisdiction with limited staff capacity agreed to have County staff represent their community, and in eastern Montana it is common that one staff at one jurisdiction may represent multiple jurisdictions in an official capacity in their day -today mle. Numerous sma0jurisdictions were invited to participate in all planning meetings, but had County representatives, often the County DES Coordinator represent them during the planning process. These smalljudsdiction and the coundes that represented them during the planning meetings and workshops are listed below: • City of Baker (Fallon County) Town of Medicine Lake (Sheridan • Town of Bear Creek Town of Joliet County) (Carbon County) • Town of Nashua (Valley County) • Town of Bddger (Carbon County) • Town of Hysham (Treasure County) • Town of Fromberg (Carbon County) • Town of LaVma (Golden Valley County) • Town of Haville (Daniels County) • City of Pima (Fallon County) • City of Glendive (Dawson County) • City of Plentywood (Sheridan County) • Town of Ekalaka (Carter County) Town of Ryegam (Golden Valley County) • City of Hardin (Big Him County) Town of Roundup (Musselshell County) • Town of Ismay (Custer County) Town of Melstone (Musselshell County) • City of Lodge Grass (big Horn County) • Town of Opheim (Valley County) • Town of Bainville (Roosevelt County Town of Oudoik (Sheridan County) • City of Cohtdp (Rosebud County) • Town of5cobey (Daniels County) • Town of Circle (Malone County) Town of Sidney (Richland County) • City of Forsyth (Rosebud County) • Town of Westby (Sheridan County) • Town of Fairview (Richland County) Town of Whbaux (Whbaux County) In these instances, WSP worked clowlywith the CPT's representing thosejudWictions to ensure there were additional one -erne meetings and plan review sessions scheduled to gather input and ensure their annexes and addendum: a rately reflected those jurisdiction hazard risks(see Appendix A). Neighboring communities, local and regional agencies involved in hazard mitigation activities, and agencies that have the authority to regulate development as well as businesses, academia, and other private and non-profit interests were also invited to participate and provide input In eastem Montana, neighboring communities included Philips, Petroleum, Fergus, Judith Basin, Meagher, Sweetgrass, and Park counties. Both MT DES and Golden Valley, Musselshell, Garfield. and Valley counties (that border these counties) invited thejurisdictiens to participate in the online public survey and to review the public review draft plan. MT DES also extended the public review period to enure these neighboring communities had additional time to review and provide input on the plan. Additional invitations were extended as appropriate to other federal, state, tribal, and local stakeholders, as well as to members of the public throughout the planning pmcess but specifically through invites to the planning meeting series, announcements distributed during the circulation of the public survey, and social media pasts and announcements advertised to all stakeholder groups during public review (eg, email invitations, save the date flyers, etc). A full list of local government departments and stakeholders that participated an be found in Appendix A More details with documentation of participation included are in Appendix B. During the advertisement of the planning meetings and the circulation of the onfine public survey, MT DES, the HMPC, and the CPTs and TPTs targeted outreach to inform and involve undemerved and socially vulnerable populations throughout the counties in eastern Montana through email invitations, follow-up phone calls, and public survey reminders. Stakeholder groups that represent underserved and socially vulnerable populations were actively engaged in the urban areas of Eastern Montana, such as Billings and Miles City. This allowed for a more comprehensive understanding of the diverse needs and perspectives of vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, veteran; homeless population, and low-income families, faditating the development of more equitable and effective interventions and pofides For example, planning efforts were made to schedule additional in -person mitigation strategy planning meetings in Eastern Montana to enhance participation and engagement among the more rural counties in the region compared to the central and western regions. These small rural, and isolated communities typically lack the opportunity to attend in -person workshops; therefore three additional meetings were scheduled in S InM Waif Point, and Miles City to maximize input from stakeholders that represent vulnerable populations and fmm local community leaders (ag, Council members, County Commissioners). Two of the five mitigation strategy planning meetings were also held at a senior center (e, Roosevelt Aging Services/Senior Centel and community health center (Le, Billings Riverview Health) to attract participation from underrepresented and socially vulnerable communities that best represent the health rare and elderly community, group care homes, and health rare leaders in eastern Montana However, given there are over 45 jurisdictions across Eastern Montana that consist of mostly small, rural. and isolated communities, additional effort during the plan implementation process will fears on continued targeted outreach and engagement with the stakeholder groups that represent the underserved and socially vulnerable populations in these rural counties. The community -based organizations and medical ciinia that represent vulnerable populations in eastern Montana who were invited to participate in the planning meetings are listed below (those noted with an asterisk also participated in the meetings): • Faith Lutheran Home• • Milk River Group Homes - Gttem Monona fuggon Huard Mitigation Plan Pl—Mg Process • Milk River Inc• • Prairie Ridge Village• • Salvation Army • American Red Goss• • Prairie Community Hospital • Powder River Clinic • Glasgow Clinic • Nemont Manor • R)verstone Health' • St Vincent's Hospital • Billings ionic' • Big Sky Economic Development Additional stakeholder groups that representvuinerable populations for each of the respective counties are referenced in the annexes and addendums. Media platforms that use an innovative approach and commit to indusi ity are able to leverage their platforms to reach vulnerable populations. Being able to emure that their communication resonates with a wide range of audiences is important in the planning process. The community -based media platforms who were invited to participate in the planning meetings are listed below. • KATLRadio • KVCK Radio Through targeted outreach efforts, stakeholders can be informed throughout the plan development process. Outreach can facilitate partnerships and collaboration among various stakeholders, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and collective action towards mitigation goals. This can result in greater resource mobilization, Improved coordination of efforts, and a better approach to risk reduction. Additional media platforms that were contacted in each of the respective counties are referenced in the annexes and addendums. Throughout the plan development process, communication amongst the CPTs and TPTs iccured through a combination of face-to-face meetings, virtual meetings, conference calls, phone interviews, planning workshops, and email comesponcienm During the kickoff meeting, WSP presented information on the scope and purpose of the plan update, the participation requirements of HMPC members, and the proposed project work plan and schedule. Each CPT and TPT were also required to complete a Plan Update Guide and submit relevant plans and program documentation related to their current HMP, particularly for plans that integrated the previous HMP. A plan for public involvement (Step 2) and coordination with other agencies and departments (Step 3) were discussed. During the kickoff meeting, the HMPC reviewed the hazard identification information for each jurisdiction and the Eastern Region and refined the list of identified hazards to minor that of the Montana Multi -Hazard Mitigation Plam In fallow -up to the meeting, participants were provided a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) needs worksheet to facilitate the collection of information needed to support the plan update, and a summary of the conference all. ustem Mdeana Region Narard Mitigadan iLn Pbmin9 Process Follavnng the initial coordination efforts, o series of planning workshops were held during the plans development bclwacan Mcrm 2022 and August 2023. The meedng schedule and topics are listed below. In addition, monthly conference cAs were held with the Eme ,ency Management Coordinators, M r DES and MP to disyss she pro,:Ks Indeding uocaming milstcrgs and infurmaton needs. The sign=cn sheets, meeting summaries, aid agendas foreach of the meetng; are documented in Apoendix S. HMPC planning workshops were scheduled as (ollosss. • Workshop#I:IQ.koff Msreting - Augustg,2022 • Workshop $2.. Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment and Goals Update December 14, 2022 The purpose of this workshop was to review the results of the risk assessment and review and update/develop goals. Work hop ay3: Mitigation Strategy Update - Five in -person workshops were held in the Eastern Region: o Ap613,2023-Bilfings,Montana o AprH41,2023-Sidney, Montana o April 5, 2023 - Wolf Point Montana o April 6, 2023-Miles City, Montana o April 7,20B- Billings, Montana - This workshop focused on the update of the mitigation strategy and brainstorming new mitigation actions to include in the Regional HMP. To further supplement the meetings, the WSP developed a project website to help explain the background details of the project, provide education and information on the processes of hazard mitigation planning, advertise public outreach efforts, and post -meeting materials and plan documents to be available for review. Each CPT and TPT were also asked to advertise the project website to inforn and involve their stakeholders and their communities. Figure 3-2 shows a snapshot of the homepage of the project website, which is also available at mitiaationolanmtcom. uttem.—n. Pegive naub Mitigative Plan PI—ng Process Figure 3-2 Montana Hazard Mitigation Project Websita oaa sav<. sum e+�waend•m•rmnl In some cases, HMPC meetings were supplemented with additional meetings, emails, and telephone disesusioru to further engage them nicipalides, in the process. During the supplemental meetings, MT DES and the CPTs and TPTs worked m the Plant Update Guides and later in the process Plan Revision Needs Lists designed to capture additional and more detailed information on county capabilities, hazard risks, mitigation actions, and outreach efforts. As previously rioted, the Fort Peck Tribes, Northern C heyenneTribe, and Wheatland County elected not to participate in the Regional Plan. Wheatland County recently updated their county HMP in 2021 and had limited staff resources. The Northern Cheyenne Tribe elected not to participate due to limited staff and resources, and the Fort Peck Tribes are currently updating their plan as part of a separate process. Naming Sup 2: W-11. 11u Piabl'rc The 2022-2023 planning process was an open one, with the public informed and involved throughout the process. In some cases, the HMPC meetings included members of the public and/or local media Public outreadh included social media notices, a public survey, and a public comment form to allow the public the opportunity to share comments an the draft plan. 2022 Public Suvry Early in the planning process, a public survey was developed as a tool to gather public input The survey was for the public to provide feedback to the CPTs and TPTs an topics related to hazard concerns and reducing hazard impacts. The survey provided an opportunity for public input during the planning process, prior to the finalization of the plan update. The survey gathered public feedbade on what hazards wrizem them and solicited input on strategies to reduce their impacts. The survey was released as an salon tool in September 2022 and dosed in December 2022. The counties and tribes provided links to the public survey by distributing it using social media, email, and posting the fink on websites. In total, 407 survey responses were received and shared with the CPTs and TPTs to inform the process. usam Mmaru Regan fount Mitigation Pl+n Plamiaq Pracsas The public survey induded a question on ranking hazard significance. The results generally track with the significance levels noted in Chapter 4 of this Plan, with severe winter weather, severe summer weather, wildfire, and drought rated he most significant, and tornado and windstorms and flooding rated medium significance. The following graph is a display of the results from Question 17. which asked what types of mitigation actions should have the highest priority in the Eastem Region HMP. The results indicate that electrical power resiliency, improve reliability of communication systems, and public education awareness were popular mitigation topics with the public Figure 3-3). The fun results of the survey are induded in Appendix C. I—a.a ranem Mana,u Pub&s—, ..ha 5 �����a�pA�cd�a� cur' .tt• � � �'��p ,},p h{ �d��y,8 0� MiaEat anicricy faSlaT Maxana Mgim Hmn1 Mitigation Nan Namdn9 Rrocesr Prior to finalizing, a draft of the regional plan was made available to the public for review and comment from February 21, 2024, to March 29, 2024 (over 1-month comment period). The plan was placed on the MT DES web page, on the MTDES website (mitigationplanmtcom), as well as via an online engagement space, as shown in Figure 3-4. The counties used social media and email blasts to announce the public comment period. An online feedback form was provided to collect specific comments. One comment from the City of Sidney was received through the font and no additional email or public comments were provided. The one comment received on the plan noted a minor error in reference to the City of Sidney that was corrected; no other meaningful changes were made to the HMP or its Annexes. Figure 34 Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan Virtual Public Engagement Space -} e Nerating Step I Goordinate with Other Depa6nwris and Agenda Early in the planning process, the HMPC determined that data collection, mitigatian strategy development and Plan approval would be greatly enhanced by inviting state and federal agencies and other organizations to participate in the process. Neighboring communities, tribal and regional agencies involved in hazard mitigation activities, agencies that have the authority to regulate development as well as other businesses, academia, and private and NGO organizations, were also invited to provide feedback Based on their involvement in hazard mitigation activities or their role in land stewardship in the Eastern Region, representatives from several state and federal agencies and local businesses were included in the HMPC in 2022 and are noted in Appendix A Many of these stakeholders participated in planning meetings or were provided an opportunity to review the draft plan before it was finalized. If they did not have an opportunity to review the plan during early stakeholder engagement efforts, they were provided the plan during the public review period. Some of the State and Federal agencies, which were invited to participate in the process, provided data and information for the Plan update, or provided feedback on the Plan include: • Montana Department of Natural • FEMA Region Nil Resources & Comenretion (DNRC) • EPA • Montana Department of Transportation • US Forest Service • Montana Bureau of Mines Be Geology US Air Force • Montana Fah Wildlife, & Parks Bureau of Indian Affairs Eaaem Momana Re9im Hmnt Mitigation an Naming Rocco • Bureau of Land Management NOAA/NWS • Bureau of Reclamation US Amy Corps of Engineers Coordination with certain agencies occurred on a regular basis during the planning process, including a bi- weekly (and weekly in the initial months of the project) coordination all with WSP, MT DES and other stakeholders. Other federal stakeholders that participated in these meetings included FEMA Region MII, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the US Amy Corps of Engineers (USACE). Other stakeholders included private NGOs (i.e., Headwaters Economics), and a consulting rim involved in the update of the Montana State Multi -Hazard Mitigation Plan. USACE representatives also participated in regional mitigation strategyworkshops, including providing information an funding programs and suggestions forpartnerships on mitigation actions. Odw Community Planning Efforts and Haxmd Mitigation Activities Coordination with other community planning efforts is an important aspect of mitigation planning. Hazard mitigation planning involves identifying existing policies, tools, and actions that will reduce a community's risk and vulnerability to natural hazards. Each county, the tribes, and most municipalities in the Region use a variety of comprehensive planning mechanisms, such as master plans and ordinances, to guide growth and development Integrating existing planning efforts and mitigation policies and action strategies into this plan establishes a credible and comprehensive plan that ties into and supports other community programs. The development of this plan incorporated information from the fallowing existing plans, studies, reports, and initiatives es welr^ other relevant data from neighboring communities and otherjurisdictions. Examples of this include. • County comprehensive plans a Community Wildfire Protection Plans(CWRPs) Montana State Multi -Hazard Mitigation Plan (2018) • Existing Local and Tribal HMPs • Montana Forest Action Plan (2020) • Montana Climate Sokitions Plan (2020) Other documents were reviewed and cited, as appropriate, during the collection of data to supportPlanning Steps 4 and 5, which include the hazard identification, vulnerability assessment and capability assessment are noted in Appendix E References. 332 Phase is Asw es Risks Planning Steps 4 and S: Wattify tha Haards end Asseve We Rids WSP led the HMPC and CPTfrPTs to identity and document an the hazards that have, or could, impact the planning area The existing county and tribal HMPs, and the Montana State Mufti -Hazard Mitigation Plan provided a knowledge basis for many of the hazard profiles Where data permitted, GIS was used to display, analyze, and quantity hazards and vulnerabilities. quantitative spatial analyses for dam inundation, flood, earthquake, and wildfire hazards were performed by WSP that included an analysis of flood risk based an the Digital Flood Imun ince Rate Maps (DFIRMs), where available. A more detailed description of the risk assessment process and the results are included in Chapter 4 Hazard Analysis and Risk Assessment Also included in the Eastern Regional HMP is a capability assessment to review and document the planning areas current capabilities to mitigate risk and vulnerability from hazards. By collecting information about existing government programs, policies, regulations, ordinances, and emergency plans, the HMPC an assess those activities and measures already in place that contribute to mitigating some of the risks and raaeT I— Region Hmr4 Mitigation Mn Naming E.ni vulnerabilities identified. The results of the updated capability assessment are captured in each annex and addendum. During this phase, the tribes and partcipatingjudsdictions reviewed hazard significancek-mb, as described in Chapter 4, to determine if any changes in priorities were needed. Additional feedback on priority levels was solicited during Workshop #4 using an—Pne polling tool and in-persen during Workshop 03. 333 Phasa 3: Develop tre Mitigation Plan Plannhry Steps 6 and 7: Set Goah and Rrviw Poaihla /ktivities WSP facilitated a week of discussion sessions (Workshop A3) with the HMPC that described the purpose and the process of developing planning goals, a comprehensive range of mitigation alternatives, and a method of selecting and defending recommended mitigation actions using a series of selection criteria. This process was used to update and enhance the mitigation action plan for each jurisdiction and tribe, which is the essence of the planning process and am of the most important outcomes of this effort This process -misted of five mitigation strategy workshops scheduled across the Eastern Montana regfoR including several meetings scheduled and advertised in rural communities (e.g. Sidney, Wofl Pointl and at senior centers and community health facilities. The action plans are detailed in each county and tribe annex and addendum; the process used to identify and prioritize mitigation actions is described in greater detail in Chapter Mitigation Strategy. Dump this phase the tribes and participating jurisdictions reviewed mitigation action priority levels, as described in Chapter 5, to determine if any changes in priorities were needed using a mitigation action status t-L The tribes and participating jurisdictions also developed and prioritized new mitigation actions. Figure 3-S shows the CPTs and TPTs developing new mitigation actions during the Workshop 03 series in Eastern Montana. Figure 3-S rastem Mon!ana Pe9bn Ha HMitigation Mn Nanning P.— Eastern Montana HMP Workshops - Mitigation Strategy Update -------------- VO Planning Step e: Draft mAction Plan Based on input from the HMPC regarding the draft risk assessment and the goals and activities identified in Planning Steps 6 and 7, WSP produced a complete first draft a(the Eastern Regional Film This complete draft was shared for HMPC and CPT/IPT review and comment by email from theconsultant and posted on the pmjectwebsite and cloud -based share drive. During this time, MT DES and WSP identified areas where, additional one-m-one meetings and additional data was needed in the plan, and then collected that data and input and incorporated the final revisions. Comments were Integrated into the second draft which was advertised and distributed to collect public input and-mmerim Other agencies and neighboring county Emergency Management Coordinators were also invited to comment on this draft WSP integrated comments and issues from the public as appropriate, along with additional internal review comments and produced a final draft for MT DES and FEMA Region VIII to review and approve, contingent upon final adoption by the governing boards of each padcipatingjurisdidam hpe13- th.sais- _ rt, EaYem Mwnana RaSim Harald Mitiga Wn non nanriing process 33A Phase 4: ImplwnaR the Plan and MonlWr Progress Planning stop g: Adopt Via Plan To severe bay -in and officially implement the plan, the plan was adopted by the governing boards of each participating jurisdiction. As the adoption process follows the FcMA plan rerivsv and approval, copies of the adoption resolution will be included electronically in Appendix D. Plan *M stop 10: inplraniarR, Exeltiate, and Rayfr Vw Pion The true worth of any mitigation plan is in the effectiveness of its implementation. Each recommended action includes key descriptors, such as a lead manager and possible funding sources, to help initiate implementation. Progress on the implementation of specific actions identified in the plan is captured in a discussion and the mitigation action plan summary table in Chapter 5 Mitigation Strategy. An overall implementation strategy is described in Chapter 6 Plan Adoption, Implementation and Maintenance. Finally, there are numerous organizations within the Eastern Region whose goals and interests interface with hazard mitigation. Coordination with these other planning efforts, as addressed in Planning Step 3, is important to the ongoing success of this plan, and mitigation in Eastern Montana and is addressed further in Chapter 6. Aplan update and maintenance schedule and a strategy for continued public involvement are also included in Chapter 6, and specifics are also in the annexes for the participating counties and tribes. 3A Tnbal Mitigation Planning Process The Eastern Montana Regional HMP meets the requirements for Tribal Mitigation Plans described in Title 44 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Section 201.7 (44 CFR 1 201.7). Under the Sandy Recovery Improvement Act of 2013, federally recognized tribal governments could obtain their major disaster declaration for the first time, enabling them to apply to FEMA for disaster assistance independent of the state obtaining a declaration. The Tribal Mitigation Planning Handbook outlines a 7-step planning process for the development of mitigation plans, which meet the needs of tribal gavemments. These 7 steps are summarized in Table 3-3. Table 3-3 Tribal Mitigation Planning 7-Step Process 1 Describeyourcanmunity Describe the pinning area, Tribal assets, and arty unique characteristics of your Tribe. 2 Identify your hazards Figure out what natural hazards could occur In your planning area. 3 Explain impacts that hazards an heve on the community Describe what the natural hazards could do to your people. property, and lend and determine the Tribe's bi ert nce hazard corns. 4 Review your cunentrapabifrry to mitt ate the ton Pacts Inventory your TdbeY plans, policies, and programs that could be used to Protect 5 Develop the strategy Keeping in mind your risks and you roinibilides, identify your Tribes mitt ation coals and actms. 6 Develop an action plan Prioritize your actions and develop the details to assist with ann"im. 7 Keep track of progress Obs rve and record progress in Implementing your mitigation a defined method and schedule Eanern Momana Wgim Huard Midgadm ran Fleming Process 3.5 EPA Regional Resilience Toolkit The EPA in partnership with FEMA has developed the Regional Resilience T-1kit to focus on the development of resilient communities on the regional scale at which disasters happen. As stated in the toolldt, with more and more communities facing the effects of disasters, decision -makers and community embers need tools and guidance to help them take action that can protect them from natural disasters while also creating great places to live, work and play. This Regional Resilience Toolkit provides: • A coordinated pm cm for meeting many different state and federal planning requirements. • Communication and outreach guidance and resources for engaging a broad coalition of stakeholders across a region. • Guidance for project teams who are conducting vulnerability assessments, willing required plans, and implementing projects. • dear information and tools that can be used with an advisory group and bring in decision -makers and community leaders to guide the overall action plan and ensure its successful implementation. • Detailed appendices with worksheets to help inform and guide work as well as additional information and resources for each step. The toolkit includes five steps designed so that users on fallow at ray point of the process depending on their progress with community resilience planning. These five steps are shown in Figure 3-6 below Figure 3-6 EPA Regional R.A6ance Toellcit Planning Sops �We' is , yCt i�v ACT Swne FPA R•§u+el Mafeno licMi.bnp4A'�+.4•.9ah�n9�.�a/i•91wW reli.rc.toaftt The toolkit also relies in part on engaging state and federal partners who have funding, policies, and programs intended to support loci efforts to create sustainable and resilient communities, helping to supplement the mitigation strategy of this regional HMP. Like the FEMA mitigation planning process, the steps of the resilience toolkit are intended to ideally work in a continuous loop improving planning and communityresirience over time. This is a valuable tool for the development of the Eastern Montana Regional HMP, due to the large scale of the planning area and the history of hazards that have had regional impacts. Mn.na E.-Region Huard Mitigation Ran Wmrd Mmbfirann and Nis, Assnvneni 4 Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment 7f71e p'er: will mch,:'.1o6,s sssescmenr,�crpr...v:est/rc fa Ine:b-1%,cc:,A—,pra;.zsed in the strL�,,y-o ndu:e zhr toire;f urn ida^rit,.l hz.-ards Lao! r err rnunf p�:viA: s.ffi. r:nrwrxzncn n enobhr the f,.risd;:do: r,_n'iya•dpocnt-u,pmp— maiyanm aaiens:o re duce 1—a-,ffum ,enyi�lh;,ru d: As defined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), risk is a combination of hazard, vulnerability, and exposure. -It is the impact that a hazard would have on people, services, facilities, and structures in a community and refers to the likelihood of a hazard event resulting in an adverse condition that causes injury or damage.' The risk assessment process identifies and profiles relevant hazards and assesses the exposure of lives, properly, and infrastructure to these hazards. The pmcess allows for a better understanding of a jurisdictions potential risk to hazards and provides a framework for developing and prioritizing mitigation actions to reduce risk from future hazard events. This risk assessment builds upon the methodology described in the 2013 FEMA Local Mitigation Planning Handbook which recommends a four -step process for conducting a risk assessment 1. Describe Hazards 2. Identify Community Assets 3. Analyze Risks 4. Summarize Vulnerability Data collected through this process has been incorporated into the following sections of this chapter. Section 4.1 Hazard Identification identifies the hazards that threaten the planning area and describes why some hazards have been omitted from further consideration. Section 42 Hazard Profiles discusses the threat to the planning area and describes previous occurrences of hazard events, the likelihood of future occurrences, and the Regions vulnerability to particular hazard events. Additional County Annexes include a summary of Community assets including population, building stock critical facilities, and histori4 cultural, and natural resources. Additional details on vulnerability to specific hazards where they vary from those of the Region are noted in the annexes. 4.1 Hazard Identification 4.1.1 Rawls and Mordiosbkngy Using existing hazards data, plans from participating jurisdiction, and input gained through planning and public meetings, the County and Tribal Planning Teams (CPTfrPTs) agreed upon a fist of hazards that could affect the Region Mn.na fasbm Region Haub Mitigr6on Plan Word Nertifiraun and Risk Areas — Hazards data from FEMA Montana Disaster and Emergency Services (DES), the 2010 State of Manton Multi -Hazard Mitigation Plan approved county and tribal plans from the participating Eastern Region counties, and many other sources were examined to assess the significance of these hazards to the planning area. The hazards evaluated in this plan include those that have occurred historically or have the potential to cause significant human and/or monetary losses in the future. The final fist of hazards identified and investigated for the 202MO73 Eastern Region Multi -Hazard Mitigation Plan includes: • Communicable Disease • Severe Summer Weather • CyberAttack • Severe Winter Weather • Dam Failure • Human Conflict • Drought • Tornadoes lk Windstorms • Earthquake • Transportation Accidents Flooding • Volcanic Ash • Hazardous Materials Incidents Wildfire • Landslide Members of each CPT and TPT used a hazards worksheet to rate the significance of hazards that could potentially affect the region. Significance was measured in general terms, fora ing on key criteria such as the likelihood for future occumences of the event frequency of past occmences, geographical area affected, and damage and casualty potential. Table 4-1 represents the worlahmt used to identify and rate the hazards and is a composite that iridudes input from a0 the participating jurisdictions. Note that the signifrance of We hazard may vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. The County Annexes include further details on hazard ignifrconce by county and municipality. Table 4-1 Eastern Region Hazard Sigrdfiurtcer Summary Table Canmunkabl Disease Extent'— Critical Occati—I Medium C ttack Significant Critical Occa keel Medium Dam Failure Significant Limited WElely law Drought Enensive Cdtkzl Highly b".I, H' h Earth eke S' nif ant Umited Likely Low Flooding limited Critical Uk Hi Hazardous Matedal Incidenn Limited Negligible Highly Likely I— Landslide Limited Necarliaibl. 0—iond Low Severe Summer Weather. hark exce7s,w heat heat lea raink hinin Extentree Critical Highly Likely High Severe Winter Weather, blizt.rd, 'Id/wind chill extreme Zw;nd chill, heavy snow, ke tram,, winter stann, winter weather Extensive Critical Highly Likey Medium Humn Conffia(ferm,lua. Civil Unrest erc.) Significant Critical Ckcatind Medium Tornadoes ei Windstorms Extensive Critical Hi High Trans clan Accidnts Slia.if ant Umited HighlyUkaly Madkim Vokaek Ash Edensive Limited Unlikely Las• WHfire Fxtentnra Critical HlighlyUkely Koh Fagv l3-17 vyelaa M ... Eastern Region HanW Mith cloo non Hued Idesdfiadm and Risk AneunwW Monona Easmm Pagion V_,d Mioaa''an flan Harald ldenuf donard Wok Aensment a'••9M—— r: a Less Nan 10 Pertenl of pkrmmg area or R baey oe rutae acornet.aa ny,Iik Lns Nml pertmt pmh11" Aaanence in tF.e nen isdned singb-po-ntaana-:n yo.rwhnarwvnmce inunal of 9u+ur:hanwearylDore— d^•^d 10 w 25 pemnt of the Fkmirq area w Prated 4ceaklaat Between • 1 and to penmt oob.tairy oloouna,ce d,gkpdnt aanm<n n Ce nen ymr a ha • reexrence imervd of 11 [o t00 h.an bgyB5L0$: 25to7:p,oeA dp1w:n e.orfguam re 1tsdB BeMam f0 and 9a prtcmt poF dry ctaarrence:n thr onyepam aanma[ ,wrtynr, orhnarewnana �ntenal o!1 tv h0 year E&enstm 75 to 100 peeemt of Pkmu,q reaacons:stmt EW' J'UL 0anaam 90 and loa par[mt pobabtya imglep6ntawrtenms a yeawi. he nen year wlusa recunene msemld lessen r.m Potmtlal M.9,4tude/SnMty Mrel9gn8taaa Usag"BC Less Nan to pertmt olpwpertynsnerey Liu Two or more el Ne aiteda falNNebwn d.dfiWmsw damaged. fa 3desandsermmanwn+w9aNebrkss lM evmthas. nii,u g.rn. This raun96 dun, J nes an d u. huMde salsa fiat 1. h—ctvnd,e oxnri unknown usNf-Mes swirh=,dm aid orariNin the response apabary of NajurisQctivn riOhn.e,m p"it word of oo rnaW ofawrtm<n/mp.mabrtuads will, minimal hh miGgadoo potmdel Llmilat 10 to a peoerodp,vpetyu severdy damaged h!.r. r. The orhd. fop mosdfin the middle n^9•s of lean. and.e .au urwidaHr--land? desifiatiom and Ne e , impacts oo Na p4ming area are days iryuria and amm,req.iresophi,i,tad m"W oodcwde butera devasniog. Thisraeng h 1w u—ni s wppat that don nwnuM d,. resporna aWbary of Nr uWked fa Aavds wid,ahigh knpan ntlny berm aaemdy low ryris6cdacwresuluk veryfew pemunmt diuMTm'es wrteae rwos. Shci.L 25 to 5a per— of poprny i. seswey damaged, ki& The oiled. ca,dnmdy fill drag he hi9h mgn of the fadtin and vMo.are uruvapatle wsereNy hiMaM lis ficadm aM the swot even. si,if o and h.qumt in os fw 1 to 2svre4. iq n, .d anessn onwbdm madlW m Ne planning area Th6 rm'ng h dw somedma utilized for wppatfa.b4efpedodofdme wresuh in cowry hau,ds w . high prychdogiicel impart or for haeards Nn Ne pman.tt divhLdn coil. few dads evmshdmM la mmd.d period Wilma or maydaNs awl. juriWictim idmdfin as pardwkdy rdmm. _ _abec Mon dun SO pemem of pr�Mrsy i.—M, damaged faoSdn and sank... uawaeble or Node d for more Nan 2 weaas, the medial tnpane systemh we,wh.fir" for n.n padod of dma or 4.12 Othar Hmrds Considwad but not Profiled As part of the hazard identification process, the Regional Steering Committee and CPT/rPTs also noted other hazards that could impact the region but are not further profiled as impacts tend to be more isolated or do not result in local, state, or federal disaster dedarations. These include wildlife hazards mmdated with humanAvildlife interaction and colBsiom, and avalanches. Avalanche terrain exists an the far southwestern portion of the Eastern region but typically impacts isolated and undeveloped areas. 4.13 Disastsrr Declaration History As part of the hazard identification process, the Regional Steering Committee and CPT/rPTs researched past events that triggered federal and/or state emergency or disaster declarations in the planning area. Federal and/or state disaster declarations may be granted when the severity and magnitude of an event surpasses the ability of the local government to respond and recover. Disaster assistance is supplemental and sequential. When the local govemment's capacity has been surpassed, a state disaster declaration may be issued, allowing for the provision of state assistance. Should the disaster be so severe that both the local and state governments' capadlim are exceeded, a federal emergency or disaster declaration may be issued allowing for the provision of federal assistance. The federal government may issue a disaster d eclaration through FEMA, the US. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and/err the Small Business Administration (SBA). FEMA also issues emergency declarations, which are more limited in scope and without the long -tens federal recovery programs of major disaster &c1arabom. The quantity and types of damage are the determining factors. Mmun. EMtem R.gim Harald We,— Man NazaW Idmdfiadm+nd N* Assessment A USDA declaration will result in the implementation of the Emergency Loan Program through the Fans Services Agency. This program enables eligible farmers and ranchers in the affected county as well as contiguous counties to apply for law interest loans. A USDA declaration will automatically follow a major disaster dedaration for counties designated major disaster areas and those that are contiguous to declared counties, including those that are across state lines. As part of an agreement with the USDA the SBA offers law interest loans for eligible businesses that suffer economic losses in declared and contiguous counties that have been dedared by the USDA These loans are referred to as Economic Injury Disaster Loam. Table 4-2 provides information an federal emergencies and disasters declared in the Eastern Region counties between 1953 and 2022. Table 4-3 provides information on state emergencies and disasters declared in the Central Region and documented in the 2023 SHMP update. Table 4.2 Federal Disaster Deda..tiom in the Eastern Region, 1953.2022 197s Rains, 5nowmdt, slams aFloodin DR472-M7 Wheatland 1977 Drou t EM-305&MT Golden Val Muaselshdl 1978 Figodng Sewre Storms D0.-55&Mil Big Hom, Orhon,Pwder River, Rosebud SBlwaten Tnew re. Yelowstwe 1986 He 0.a landddesAFlood DR•761-MT Dan Dawson, Val 19" Sderc Stortnf B Floodin DR-777-M7 McCme, Rosebud, 1.1, 1997 Soren Surrns, Ice J.res, Snow Mek Flood n DR-1183-MT. Al coumks n Eastern Region 1999 Fohei Creek Fire Caen olex FSA-ZZWMT Musselshell 20M Willi. Fire FSA-2320MT Carbon 2" Wildfires DR-1340-MT Mast counties in Eastern Region ocept Daniels, Dawson, McCone, Pride, Richland, Shedd', Val , and Wl—, 2000 Winter Storm DR-13SO-MT Caner, F.Bm, Mc Caro, Richland Roos ek Sheridan W,baux 2001 Severe Stones DR-1377-MT Biq Hon 2003 Missouri Break. Fire Complex FM-24a-mr Garfleld 2005 Hurricane nbna Evacuation EM-3253-MT Statewide 2006 Saund.n Fre FM-26S2-Mil Shcw.tet 2Wfi 0 Fire FM.2671-MT S011wate, 2006 EtnaWd H'dk Fre F14-2669-MT Yell —tore 2007 Forciftoad Fin FM-2723-MT Yelowsune 2008 SevereWleter5tam DR-1767-1VIT Cana Curtin, N11-Powder River 20D) Ea led 1F FM-2837-MT Se .., N71 Severe Storm. red Flood DR-1996-MT AlcounOes in Eastern R ion 2011 Ca Credo Fre FM-295&MT Yelwr.ton. 2012 Dahl Floe FM-298&MT Mu —Mall 2012 Ask Creek Fin FM-298&MT PowderRver iit—bud 2M2 Merman. Wildfires D0.4074-Mf Rosebud. Powder River 2013 Fang DR4127-MT Mwsebheq R..b d, Custer, Dawson, MCCone, L. ,Gnfidd 2014 Ice Jams ad Flaafmg DR-4172-W Shclvater,Wheatland Golden Valy, Wssebhek Rosebud PW de, Dawson, Richland 2074 Severe Stems, Straight -Lineal ds, Floes DR41WMT Carter, Mussdshel, Valleyand DRd275-hiT lax FM-5IWMT G.dkP ld 2019DR-43%MT VFallRen 7__ DR-4405-NIT Ge6kn VaBry, Muebadl Tm..m food DR4a7-MT OankkValley.IdcCaPwerill— Tmasu-Sti!Wvter EM-347&MT Statewide20 Cw-19Panem DR4508-MT Statewide 202D Snider ' eF.m Com Iex FM-5345-MT C.,t Powder River. Roebud 2020 Huff Foe FM-S343-MT Garfield 202D Bobcat Fee FM-5344-MT Mussebhell.Yelowslone 21120 1 Fal Sur Fite FM•5324-MT StilFxato Y'll""me N21 we PFlau Fireire FM-5403-MT BHom N21 Straight-Li,uY! ds 46WDR-W Garfield McCone, Roosevelt Richland Dawson 2021 Robenran Draw Fire FM-5392-MT Cabo. 7J121 Riche I2 Fre EdS FM•54(16-MT Rmabud N21 Ri 'n Fre 4623-DR-MT RoseWdB' Ham 2121 Bulfab Wildfire FM-5399-MT YeMvrsmm 2@2 Seven Storms and Fkd".o Carb.' Stillwater, Ydl—tau Tabk 4-3 St t.- dexi emergendes and diastahn presented in the 2023 SHMP 1978 Flood ED-13-78 PA-ST-78-12 Petm(eum County 1978 Flood ED-13.78 PA-ST-78.11 Petroleum Countyy CMnn O 1979 Flood PA4T-79-10 Fergus County(DantW 1979 Flood PA-Sf-79-11 Pabdwrn County 1991 Flood EO-IS-91 MT-2-91 Blaine County 1991 Road FD-33.91 W4-91 Blaln.County 1991 Flood EO.12-91 MT-1-91 Teton County 1922 Drought E013A2 Statewide 1993 Drought EO 14A2 Sumwide 1994 Fkwd ED-04-94 MT-1 'A Petmlrnm County 1998 Flood EO-10-9B MT-2-98 Hill County 2D05 Hood EO-11-2005 MT-2-OS C houtear County 2D70 Flood EO-21-2010 MT4.10 Petroleum County 2D18. Cold Bt 81mwd Conddbns EO5.2018 Blecldeet Natlon, Fort Be6nap Reservation, Northern Chyerim Reservation Glacier County, Golden Valley County 2018 Food EO-2&N78 Cascade County, Lewdsand Clark County, Leafs and Clark County (Great Falls) MIS Flood EO.11-N7B Fort B.5..p Indian Reservation, Two of Chester, Countke Poncho, Hilt Blaine, Valley, Tole, Liberty, Petroleum Mmtan Frio_ Ra9bn HaaW Mite Ooo flan Harald Mendf dm.M Ruk Pnenmmt 2018 Flood EO-11-2018 Liberty County (Chested 2019 Severe Winter Weather ED 15-2019 Suterride 2019 Flood E0.13.2D19 Teton County 20M Wildfire EO-8-2020 Statewide 2021 Wildfire EO-12-2021 SW id. 2021 Drought EO 11-2021 Statewide 2022 Harsh Wester Canditiom EO1-2022 Statewide 4.1A National Risk Index Orerriew During the 2022/2023 planning process a relativ61 new online risk assessment tool became available from FEMA The National Risk Index (NRp is a datmet and online tool that helps illustrate the United States communities most at risk for 18 natural hazards. It was designed and built by FEMA in close collaboration with various stakeholders and partners in academia: local. state, and federal government and private industry. The NRI leverages available source data for natural hazard and community risk factors to develop a baseline relative risk measurement for each United States county and census tract The NRI's interactive mapping and data -based interface enables users to visually explore individual data sets to better understand what is driving a community's natural hazard risk Users may also create reports to capture risk details an a community or conduct community -based risk comparisons, as well as export data for analysis using other sahware. Intended users of the NRI include planners and emergency managers at the local, regional, state, and federal levels, as well as other decision makers and interested members of the general public The NRI provides relative Risk Index scores and ratings based on data for Expected Annual Loss (EAL) due to natural hatards, social vulnerability, and community resilience. Separate scores and ratings are also provided for each component Expected Annual Loss, Social Vulnerability, and Community Resilience Figure 4-1 illustrates the NRI risk equation and components that define risk based on the expected annual loss times the social vulnerability divided by a community's resirience to that potential hazard. �I n9.1 Montana Eas[em Pegivn Hanrd Mitigatlan Plan Haurd Idendfiutim and Risk Assnsmmt Montana Es— sag.- H—M Miugaaon Rsn HaraN wsrdfudon and Risk Assessment Figure 4.1 Generalized National Risk Index Risk Equation and Components Expected Annual Loss x Social Vulnerability Risk = —--- ..... ... _.. Community Resilience Rating Category Expected Annual Loss Very High Communrtv Social Vulnerabilily Relatively High Rc511irnrr Refalively Moderate 11f81wr E+pettedA—I -" Relatively Low I. —Cons -unity loss&Social Vukwrabilily Very IOW . Raba- - Higher Risk =Hiplwr Risk S.— FWA NM TeNn W Documenndon 2021 For the Risk Index and EAL, scores and ratings can be viewed as a composite score for all hazards or individuallyfor each of the 18 hazard types. These 18 hazard types are listed in Figure4-2. Figuns 4.2 National Risk Index Hazard Types NATIONAL RISK INDEX HAZARD TYPES L. Avalanche 6. Had 1L Lighinmg 16 Volcanic Activ ty 2. Coastal Flooding 7. Heat Wave 12. RNerme Flooding IT Wildfire 3, Cold Wave 8. Hunicane 13. Strong Wmd 18 Winter Weather 4. Drought 9. Ice Storm 14. Tornado 5 Earthquake 10. Landslide 15 Tsunami The NRI was evaluated by the Regional Steering Committee and Montana DES's planning consultant to determine its applicability to the Easter, Region HIRA An added benefit of leveraging NRI data for the regional plan included standardized methods for assessing risk on a county -by -county scale for most of the natural hazards in the HIRA This included composite risk indicators for hazards previously lacking necessary data, consisting of subsets of summer and winter storms including cold wave, lightning, wind, and ice storms. The other benefit is that moving forward, FEMA will be periodically updating and improving the NRL which should provide a valuable and standardized resource for future HIRA up dates. The HIRA sections for Drought Landslide, Flood, Severe Summer Weather, Severe Winter Weather, and " Tornadoes & Windstorms contain the following aggregate risk products, mapped by WSP using NRI data: • Annualized Frequency • Composite Rfsk Index Rating • Expected Annual Loss Sources of hazards and exposure data includes SHELDUS, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administmdan (NOAN, U.S. Geological Survey (ISGS), National Weather Service (NWS), and the USDA Consequences of hazard occurrences are categorized into three different types: buildings, population, and agriculture. Montana Easton Region Hann! Mibgatbn Flan Hazad Idmdfiudm and WA Au — Additional details can be referenced in the FEMA NW Technical documentation 2021, available at httos•1/hazards.(ema aov/nri/. 4.15 Assats Summary Building and Critical Facility Aaeam Assets inventoried for the purpose of determining vulnerability include people, buildings, critical facilities, and natural, histadc, or cultural resources. For the regional planning process two standard databases were utilized for the basis of building and critical facility data The Montana Spatial Data Infrastructure (MSDI) Cadastral Parcel layer (April 2022) was used for improved parcel and building inventory throughout the region. This information provided the basis for building exposure and property types. Data current as of 2022 was downloaded for all the counties within the Easter, Region, which was then analyzed using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to create a centroid, or point, representing the center of each parcel polygon, for wlnerability analysis. A critical facility is defined as one that is essential in providing utility or direction either during the response to an emergency or during the recovery operation. Much of this data is based on GIS databases associated with the 2022 Homeland Infrastructure Foundation -Level Data (HIFLD). Other critical facility databases were also used, such as the National Bridge Irrventory (NBI) and data from Montana DES. Where applicable, this information was used in an overlay analysis for hazards such as flood and wildfire. More detail on assets potentially exposed to hazards can be found in the county annexes. FEMA organizes critical facilities into seven lifeline categories as shown in Figure 4-3. Figure 4.3 FEMA Lifeline Categories 0 4) (1 ® - situ ® Or •+a -roar' rra..s tFLJ*� ear carer wrsd/Bur. g ara O t....araaw aeryY s..+.. arm These Iifefine categories standardize the classification of critical facilities and infrastructure that provide indispensable service, opemtioq or function to a cDmmunity. A lifeline fc defined as providing indispensable selvirn that enables the continuous operation of critical business and government functions, and is critical to and safety, or economic security. These categodzati— are particularly —1`0 as the. • Enable effort consoGda6ons between government and other organizations (eg, infrastructure owner, and operators). • Enable integration of preparedness efforts among plans, easier identification of unmet critical facility needs. • Refine sources and products to enhance awareness, capability gaps, and progress towards stabilization. Enhance communication amongst critical entities, while enabling complex interdependencies between govemment assets. • Highlight lifeline related priority areas regarding general operations as well as response efforts. A summary of the critical facilities inventory for the Easter, Region can be found in Table 4d belom Table 4-4 Summary of Critical Facilities Eaposum Summarized by FEMA lifelines Csunty 2 E e Y 3 2 F Y z _ g s r 2 Is ~ Montana Fin — Region Hand Miagaticn Ran Hamm Mendfiudon and Risk Anaumm scare: WRD 2➢22. Montana DES. N& Natural Raarrarar As arta In addition to building and critical facility assets, natural resource assets such as wetlands, forests, animals, and protected areas, are important to include in benefit -cost analyses for future hazard mitigation projects. Natural resources are valuable to communities due to their benefits to water quality, wildlife protection, recreation, and education. Adcitionalfy, awareness of these resources may be used to leverage additional funding for projects and contribute to a communites goal in protecting sensitive resources. To further understand natural resources that may be particularly vulnerable to a hazard even4 as well as those that need consideration when implementing mitigation activides, it is important to identify at -risk species (.e, endangered species) in the planning area. An endangered species is airy species of fish plant life, or wildlife that is in danger of extinction throughout all or most of its range.A threatened species is a species that is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. Both endangered and threatened species are protected by law and any future hazard mitigation pmjects are subject to these leers. The U.S. Fish and WH6fe, Service Montana Ecological Services Field Office maintains a database which documents a list of threatened and endangered species in the State of Montana. Table4-5 below summarizes these species and theirstatus. A fist of other natural resource assets by county and tribe can be found in the corresponding annexes. Table 4-5 state of Montana Threatened and Endangered Species Bbck-footed Porn MtaMo nidoes c—p esdem Man,ara Cme Gno am .cons E Wdndg teastem MonWu Paid Sturgeon Smphidryndw E Bottom dvekny Mi—L Yell—ne, Madrt Mik. Paplar, .6u, Pwvder Ton a R'nen White Surgeon Acjomw E Bottom dwelling: Kootenai Rkar (Kootenai Rider eorvrmnbnu Callen GA0, Bear unurarctor, T Alpine/arbelpire conilarous forest western Montana hem'hilis Riling Plover CF.orsxldur T/CH Missouri and Yellowstone RIv undWiu akaR besch•s: meiodus non,. —Montane AkaG lake In Sheridan Canty; rrvarine and menvb shorein• in Wi kL McCOM Phillip.R Romwdt andV cmartin Montana Eartem pagion Haom Mltigaton non Hoard Idantifiaa'an and Rink Amn,rmm Mona- Easam Regien Haard Midgaton Plan Hraed Mantif km and Was, Aaeaenant Ute Lam '-tm_ Spwrlrlee T Reander wetlands; Alfw,an, Madison, Beaaahead, Inr m ddwbfe J�___-_-__-_ Gallatin.Bd watts,—mi. _ BuAtrout(CaLamde Sahe&wr yYH _ IClark Fork Fkthnditooteral St Mary ver and Belt' Ri RIm, has;.and St crdkwwosr bWm; aaW wow rives d lakes. PnrtiarsMdvra, araams, Mary - Belly RWr lies and ruurvain whin Geer Lodgq Flathead, Oackr. Popdatims) Grenito, Lekµ Lewis and Chi, Lincoln. Mkroal. Mhsoulk PaweA,R=cR $radars camBes Canada Lynx Lyrtaomrdemlr, TYCH Warm Montana Resident- Cora lynx habitat rnmtane (contiguous US. s-1fir famm; Tra iiert- secandwylperipheal hTaa popu tacos) habitat Western Monona- montane ce/6r(nest Spalding's Catchfly Sitspokfuyil ar T UPW Flathead RDear end Fisher Rive drainages; Tobacco Valley -grasslands widrtough fatcue YaBovrbied cuckoo Coccyua T Population west of the Continental D'mdq riparian areas wesamPopulation) wNh cane wooda and v4Aows Red Knot Ca6dris snsaao arlis T Mlgantaanem Mt trsaphknalong shorallaas Northern Long-eared Myods T Entem Montanoeaves, abandoned mores; roosu In are Bat oowfs ireas and ma Mo1Maw Lednin Lei Leonora T High elevation meMwrter seraems; Glacier, Nathaad, and Stonelf, lake Counties wantem Glacier Zspodo Oder T TYpcaly, found in clan, cold ranng waters that have high Suon.ffy content Glado rsd Carbon Counties Whkebrk Rne Piren woe& T Wenem,central, end southwea—Montnµinforesbat ne der,ders, and nor treaFne ENDANGFREO -An s ies that is indn er of extinction mroa outaB orad nificnt dins ran TXRFATENEO m -AnY species thrt h flay to became an endangered specie within the foreseeebk fu W a throe om all or a si nffkant rtion d its mi e. NON•ESSQITULL E%PERIMFMAL POPUlAT10N IXN) -A population of a listed specks reintroduced Into a if area that receives moreoexiolemana ementunder theAR CRITICAL HABrrAT, PROPOSED CRITCAL XABRAT (CH, Pi - The specific areas 0) within the geographic area occupied by. species, w the time it!, rated, an vfikh are fmnd those physical or biological features 0) essential toconserve thespecies and00 that may requiraspecial—tigamentconddnations cure noun;and(i) spea outside the geagraphk area occuped by the specks at the time it Is listed upon determination that such sential to cnsewa the $ aawa�mwn.w aauagiu, awwr<anwa.,ma., mwawwe,w.a raa,wmw,�.R .s-..,.,wap.a,.a 4.1.6 Social Vulnerability Social vulnerability is broadly defined as the susceptibility of social groups to the adverse impacts of natural hazards, including disproportionate death, injury, loss, or disruption of livelihood. Soda] vulnerability considers the social economic, demographic, and housing characteristics of a community that influence its ability to prepare far, respond to, cope with, recover from, and adapt to environmental hazards. The NRI has incorporated a social vulnerability index (SoVi) rating' as a 'consequence enhancing risk component" using the SoVI compiled by the Hazards and Vulnerability Research Institute in the Department of Geography at the University of South Carolina. This SoVI is a locationspecific assessment and measures the social wlnerability of Ua munties to environmental hazards utilizing 29 socioeconomic variabin which have been deemed to influence a community's wlnerabliity. The comparison of SoM values between counties within the State allows for a more detailed depiction of variances in risk and vulnerability. Figure 'ArofI .me Nwhas h.ra. to useme nodalwMenawtykdsa1a, M=Warrnt 6Theanalysishart wndoneA tlw SoN model deaiGd hen. tam indices patlua crrip»He rnuhs,wim some ImpoNm dHemncn Also see Turfing, HA (2017) Compsratire uulyds d add-Inrabhi y inaia , CDC, SM and SON is, luM U,imaity, SwMm, Manes ihnf, 75p. Mmana Eanam Legion Haab Midgadon Mn Have Iduhdfiadm and wok Aranvrwnt 4-4 shows this social vulnerability rating by county in Montana, with those counties shaded in darker red having the highest levels of soda[ vulnerability. Figure 4.4 Social Vulnerability Rating by County. in Montana (2021) ' r„taP !astern Cea.� amw..aw-e..a �warrr ea,.a. �wwre, - :q w,wK rr mu tt♦rrrwaa«a.. The index an he med by the State to help determine where social vulnerability and exposure to hazards ovedaps and how and where mitigation resources might best be used. The SoIA provides a score between 0.01 and 100, with higher stores indicative of higher levels of social vulnerability. According to the index, the following, fisted in order, are Montanus ten most socially vulnerable counties: 1. Glacier County(Score 75.72) Z Roosevelt County (Score 70.60) 3. Big Horn County(Scare 7032) 4. Liberty County (Score 63.07) S. Meagher County (Scare 62.99) 6. Blaine County (Score 61.14) 7. Daniels County (Score 59.711 8. Mineral County (Scone 59.05) 9. Lake County (Scare 55.77) 10. Chouteau County (Store 5459) Of these ten most socially winnable counties, only two, Roosevelt and Big Hom counties, are in the eastem region. Daniels County is also one of the counties in eastern Montana ranked Very high' for social wIawabifity. In addition to the ten counties fisted above, Wheatland, Valfey, Sanders, Granite, Sheridan Deer Lodge, Silver Bow, Petroleum and Lincoln also rank in the top 20%most socially vulnerable counfies nadomvide. Figure 4-S below shows the percentile of exh county s social wlnerability ranking on a national sale. Figure 4-5 Social Vdn.nbifiy, State Percentile g n'T central BaMera - w ,•. ssaaeou ..J 1't I . �arTamawt maw fie» a� na. sons Cnsmwrfy Reail— Related to social vulnerability, the NRI utilizes community resiliena as a 'consequence reduction component'. Community Resilience an essentially be thought of as an inverse to social vulnerabifity. The NRI defines community resilience as the ability of a community to prepare for anticipated natural hazards, adapt to rhanging conditions, and withstand and recover rapidly from disruptions. There are multiple, well - established ways to define community resifiena at the local level, and key drivers of resilience vary between locations. Became there are not nationally available, bottom -up community resilience indices available, the Social Vuhembifity and Community Resilience Working Group chose to utif¢e a tap -clown approach. The NRI relies on ming broad factors to define resilience at a national level and create a comparative metric to me as a risk factor. The Community Resilience smm is a consequence reduction risk factor and represents the relative level of community resilience in comparison to all other communities at the same level. A higher Community Resiliencescore xesults in a lower Rhk Index score. Because CommunityResilience h unique to a geographic loation -specifically, a count X a geographic risk factor. Communityresilience data are supported by the University of South Carolinas Hazards and Vulnerability Research Institute (HVRq Baseline Resilience Indicators for Communities (BRIC). HVRI BRIC provides a sound methodology for quantifying community resilience by idwfifying the ability of a community to prepare and plan for, absorb, recover from, and more Mantua pram Region _"`Mitigation Han IaaN ldentif clan and Risk Areas—, successfully adapt to the impacts of natural harards. The HVRI BRIO dataset includes a set of 49 indiatam that represent six types of resilience: social economic community capital, institutional capacity, homing,rinfrastructure, and environmental. It uses a local sale within a nationwide scope, and the national dataset serves as a baseline for measuring relative resilience. The data an be used to compare one place to another and determine specific drivers of resilience, and a higher HVRI BRIO score indicates a stronger and more resifient community. Figure 4-6 below shows the community resilience rating for each county in Montana Figure 4.6 Community RasiRanw Rating by County in Montasr Wuntem Csssfrr EptgPn r-- ee wassA rhw.,mms Marisc<+sav: ermxx The community resilience rating an be meful in determining counties which have higher levels of ability to cope with hazards and identify success stories for building resilience. According to the index (2021), the following, fisted in order, are Montana's ten most resilient muntier. 1. Daniels County (58.16) 2. Lewis and Clark County (57.80) 3. Cascade County(S7.72) 4. Sheridan County(57.49) 5. Yellowstone County (56.92) 6. Hill County(S690) 7. Chouteau County (56.79) 8. Teton County(56.71) M.u" East•m Region Huard fvwaxt Ran Monona U.. Pagi. Heard Mitlgttlon cyan Hazard Idm f fiwand Risk As,nvnmt ttaa,tl Itlend,radon and Risk Arsntment 9. Sweet Grass County 156.63) 10. Blaine County(56.17) Only a select few of the above counties are in the top 20 percent in the nation in terms of community resilience with those being limited to Daniel:, Lewis and park and McCone counties. The average community resilience score for the State of Montana is 54A3, which is slightly lower than the national average score of 54.59. Only 11.1% of counties in the country have a higher Irvvl of community resilience than Montana's highest rated county, Daniel County. in addition to the ten counties listed above, Petroleum, Silver Bow, Custer, Ponders. Carbon, Meagher, Gallatin, and Fergus counties each are identified as having relatively high levels of community resilience. Figure 4-7 below shows the percentile of each countys community resilience ranking on a national scale. Fgure 4-7 Community Resilience Saito Percentile waste. I _»,.m„ Hw anaxeo,.n.wzozh _a,..,a � M.ae•w.a.a� man-ra, Adaptive capacity is the potential for a system to adjust to change and to potential damage and take advantage of opportunities, and cope with consequences. As smhL other indicators of community resilience include whether local municipalities have planning departments and administrative and technical staff capabilities to address community needs during hazard events through effective planning processes, community engagement and planning projects related to resiliency. Data from Headwater Economics was reviewed to map those counties that lack a Planning Department and/or a Zoning Ordinance. Figure 4-8 shows the counties in Montana that do not have a Planning Department In other words, these are the counties in the State that lade formal planning resources and have less capability for land use and hazard mitigation planning. These include the counties of Glacier, Blaine, Wheatland, Golden Valley, Musselshell, Treasure, Carter, McCone, and Daniels. Montana Eartem Raglm Heard Mltlgatlon cyan Hazard Idmnlratl'm and Dirk Assavnmt Figure 4-8 Counties in Montana that lads a Planning Department Western I.,,r,,, Fast — a INE MM�m Mobile Homes Mobile and manufactured homes are the most common unsubsidized, affordable housing in the United States. Research shows that these structures face a dusp.partionately higher risk of flooding and also damage from wind events (Headwater Economics 2022). Approximately 92% of the housing types in Montana are mobile homes compared to approximately 5.6% mobile homes in the United States (U.S. Census 2020). Compared to those who live in other types of housing, mobile home residents have higher exposure to natural hazards such as wind, tornadoes, hurricanes, extreme heat wildfire, and particularly flooding. Forexample, according to analysis by Headwater Economics, am in seven mobile homes is located in an area with high flood risk compared to one in 10 for all other housing types (Headwater Economics 2022). Figure 4-9 shows the number of mobile homes m a pmporion to the number of households within the County. Figure 4-9 Mobile Nome, in Montana Western Connxl E.stam I=— aU 7 risai �,a` emcee w•.. cs _ ooa.owt ems As shown above, Mineral, Petroleum Powder River, and Carter counties have the highest number of mobile homes as a proportion to the number of households in that County. Other counties with 1 SIX to 20%mobile home proportions include Lincoln, Sanders, Beaverhead, Glacier, Meagher, Stillwater, Golden Valley, Big Ham, Rosebud, Richland, and Fallon counties. 4.2 Hazard Profiles rrhe dsk araemtrem sha0 fncfWe cur desaipMm of d—lacaft- and ertmt of a8 rwtanl harards mar con a#kt the jurisdiction. The plan mall b d de in/omwdon on previam oaurences of hamrd —lit and on me probability of Na,,, hazard worm The hazards identified in Section 4.1 are pro riled individually in this section. Much of the profile inform, afion came from the same sources used to initially identify the hazards. 42.1 Profile MadmdiakW Each hazard is profiled in a similar format that is described below Hazard/Problem DesaipUen This subsection gives a description of the hazard and associated problems, followed bydetails on the hazard specific to the Region. MmG,u Fashm bgion Hand MiEy4on kin Haartl Idmdfiradan+M Birk Anrasment Geographic Area AFfeeYd This subsection discusses which areas of the Region are most likely to be affected by a hazard event Negligible: Less than 10 percent of planning area or isolated single -point orcurrams limited: 10 to 25 percent of the planning area or limited single -point —manes Significant 25 to 75 percent of planning area or frequent single -point atx rmences Extensive: 75 to 100 percent of planning area or consistent single -point occurrences Past O__. This subsection contains information on historic incidents, including impacts where known. Information provided by the Regional Steering Committee a included here along with information from other data sources, including NOAA!s National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEO Storm Events Database and other data solaces. When available, tables showing cauntyspecific data from the NCEI database may be found in each hazard profile. Ft.gwncyNk.l*..d of Orxao The frequency of past events is used in this section to gauge the likelihood of future of curences. Based on historical data, the likelihood of future occurences is categorized into one of the following classifications: • Highly Uktiy--9O to 100 percent chance ofomerence in next year or happens every year. • Likely —Between 10 and 90 percent chance of a=irerce in next year or has a recurrence interval of 10 years or less. • Occasional --Between 1 and 10 percent chance of occurrence in the next year or has a recurrence interval of 11 to 100 years. • Unlikely —Less than 1 percent chance of occurrence in next 100 years or has a recurrence interval of greater than every 100 years. The frequency, or chance of occurrence, was calculated where possible based on existing data Frequency was determined by dividing the number of events observed by the number of years and multiplying by 100. Stated mathematically, the methodology for calculating the probability of future occurrence, is: F of known events x100 years of historic record This gives the percent chance of the event happening in any given year, An example would be three droughts occurring over a 30yrear period which equates to 10 percent chance of that hazard occurring any given year. Climate Cherg. Consid•rstics. This describes the potential for climate charge to affect the frequency and intensity of the hazard in the future. Potantial Magnitude and S.vadly This subsection discusses the potential magnitude of impacts, or extent from a hazard event Magnitude classifications are as follows: Negligible: Less than 10 percent of pmperty is severely damaged, facilities and services are unavailable for less than 24 hours, i juries and illnesses are treatable with first aid orwithin the response capability of thejurisdiction Montana Eart,mh Ragtm Hanrd MiUgatlon Plan Heard lde,m6udm antl l4dt Aaesvnern MmUna PaaUm Pagim Heard Mitlgatbn Plan r4uN Mmdf dim a,W tusk Asseamnt • UmitmL 10 to 25 percent of property is severely damaged, facilities and services are unavailable Org hVCOMID-19Paulaade bebveen 1 and 7 days, injuries and illnesses require sophisticated medical support that does not strain Since March 2024 the Rite of Montana, the nation, and the world were clearing with the COVID-19 the response capability of thejurbdidim, orresults in very few permanent disabilities. pandemic The COVID-19 virus has a much higher rate of tramrnsnian than the seasonal flu primarily by • Critical: 25 to 50 percent of property is severely damaged, facilities and services arc unavalable or alrbome transmission of droplets and bodily fluids. Common symptoms include fever, rough fatigue, severely hindered for I to 2 weeks, injuries and illnesses overwhelm medical support for a beef period shortness of breath or breathing diftivalties, snd loss of smell and taste. While most people have mild of lime or result in manypennanent disablities and a few deaths, owiwhelrtad for an utended period symptoms, some people develop acute respiratory distress syndrome, with roughly one in two requiring of time or many deaths occur. hospitalizations. Recent studies have shown the average arcs -specific COVID-19 rase fatality rate to be 2% • Catastrophic More than 50 percent of property is severely damaged, facilities and services are - 3%worldwide, higher thin previously reported estimates (Cao, Hiroshi and Montgomery 2020). Case unavailable or hindered for more than two weeks, the medical response system is overwhelmed for an fatarity rate, also called case fatality risk or use fatality ratio, in epidemiology, is the proportion of people extended period of time or many deaths occui, who die from a specified disease among all individuals diagnosed with the disease over certain period of h time (Harrington 2022). The key challenge in containing the spread has been the fad that it can be The primary function of the VulnembliryAssessment section for each hazard is to identify whirls assets are transmitted by asymptomatic people. both likely to be exposed to a hazard and susceptible to damage from that exposure. In this context assets 2D22 US M.*"Pa Outbreak are (1) people, (2) property, (3) critical facilities and lifefines (4) the economy, (5) historic and cultural According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDQ monkeypox is a rare disease caused by resources, and (6) natural resources. Exposure is defined here as interacting with a hazard, and likely to be infection with the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox virus is part of the same family of viruses as smallpm exposed indicates a presence in areas deemed W be mpedally likely to experience a hazard. Susceptible is Monkeypox symptoms are similar to smallpox symptoms but milder, and monkeypox is rarely fatal. meant to indicate assets that are easily damaged from exposure to a hazard. Finally, vulnerability under Symptoms of monkeypox can include fever, headache, muscle aches, swollen lymph nodes, chills, future conditions is considered as it relates to both climate change and existing and future development exhaustion and a rash that can look like pimples or blisters The rash goes through different stages before Susceptible is a peculiar term in the context of hazard mitigation plans. FEMA does not specifically, define hearing completely. Some people gets rash first followed by other symptoms, while others oryexperience the tern and yields to the common definition of 'easily harped by something' In practice, estimating a rash. The illness typically lasts 2 to 4 weeks and can spread from the time symptoms start until the ash susceptibility of assets or rifefines to each hazard is a complex task Even deriving which assets are, or are has fully healed and a fresh layer of skin has formed. People who do not have monkeypox symptoms cannot not susceptible is subject to an implicit judgment of how easily harmed is enough to be deemed spread the virus to others. susceptible? FEMA's 2023 Local Mitigation Planning Policy Guide provides a statement that plan participants The virus can spread from person to person through may identify which specific assets are most susceptible to damage or loss from hazards (FEMA 2023). In the Eastern Montana plan, MT DES in coordination with each county and tribe, describes which assets are • Direct contact with the infectious rash subs, or bodily fluids; susceptible to a given hazard to best assess their communities' unique vulnerabilities and particular assets Touching items (such as clothing or finens) that previously touched the infectious rash or bodily fluids; most susceptible to hazard risk • Respiratory secretions during prolonged, face-to-face contact or intimate physical contact • Touching items (such as clothing or linens) that previously touched the infectious rash or body fluids; Mother limitation of the vulnerability assessment is the inconsistent ability to define which specific assets and are vulnerable. The reasons far this are many, but the most common problem is that GIS datasets may not . placenta from pregnant person to fetus. contain consistent information about the daradedstics of spedfic assets Information about the daacterisfics of each asset could also allow a judgment of which assets are susceptible to damage. For It is also possible for people to get monkeypox from infected animal; either by being scratched or bitten example, if a dataset only contains the location of houses, it is easy to Identify which (cruses exist within a by the animal or by preparing, eating, or using products from an infected animal high -hazard area However, not all houses are equally susceptible to damage. Some were built to comply Monkeypox was discovered in 1958 when two outbreaks of a pox -like disease occurred in colonies of with older housing codes, some may not be well maintained and improved, and some may be oriented in monkeys keptforrmearch Despite being named 'monkeypox; the source of the disease remains unknown. ways or located on sites that cause subtle differences in exposure to a hazard such as wind. In the absence However, African rodents and non -human primates (like monkeys) might harbor the virus and infect people. of reliable data on key characteristics, judging which assets are susceptible to harts becomes a best The first human case of mankeypox was recorded in 1970. Before the 2022 outhreek, monkeypox had been estimate rather than a determination. Mother example is if one datmet has the location of assets in a reported in people in several antral and western African countries. Previously, almost all monkeypox cases different format tan is used to define a hazard area. In this case it is not possible to determine which assets in people outside of Africa were finked to international travel to countries where the disease commonly are within a hazard area without additional analysis Given these limitations, this is why FEMA recommends occurs or through imported animals. These cases occurred on multiple continents. counties and tribes update their plam and vulnerability assessments every five years, in part to refine and Based on CDCs data, as of December 2, 2022, there are 8ZO21 cases all over the world in 110 countries. address charging conditions and integrate new points of view from stakeholders and the public rgan' There are 29,630 cases in the US and 7 in the State of Montana The World Health O cation (WHO) DevelopnreR Trends Ra6bd to Heards and MA declared Monkeypox Spread a Global Health Emergency on July 23, 2022. This section describes how future development and growth could impact vulnerabirity, to each hazard. Hanhrbue Pulmonary yynd—(HPS) Specific trends can be found in each county or tribal annex. According to the State of Montana's Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), Hantavins Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) is another communicable disease of concem to the State of Montana HPS is 'J- Montana Pastern Regmm Harem Mldgadon Plan MmtaN Entam Regim Nsord Mitlgacon Plan Huard ldmtifiae'm and Fisk Aaesment tW Mldmtifitaum aM risk Arsnsmant RNc Summary The primary function of the Risk SummOrysection for each hazard is to describe the potential severity of loss to vulnerable assets and the impact that loss has on jurisdictions. In the context of hazard mitigation planning, vulnerability and be viewed as what is likely to be damaged, while risk can be viewed as how severe the damage will be to those assets and to the community. Risk is sometimes described n the consequence or effect hazard has on assets. This section summarizes risk by county and tribe according to the area affected, likelihood, and magnitude of impacts. Overall hazard significance is summarized for the region and by county and tribe. If the hazard has impacts on specific towns or cities in the region that differ from the county, they are noted here, where applicable. 422 Catnmunkable Dbaaea A communicable disease spreads from one person to another through a variety of ways that include contact with blood and bodily fluids, breathing in an airborne virus, or being bitten by an insect The scale of a communicable disease outbreak or biological incident is described by the extent of the spread of disease in the community. M outbreak can be classified as an endemic, an epidemic, or a pandemic depending on the prevalence of the disease locally and around the world. • An endemic it Mined as something natural to or characteristic of a particular place, population, or climate. For example, tiveadworm infections are endemic in the tropics. • M epidemic is defined n a disease that spreads rapidly through a demographic segment of the human population, such as everyone in a given geographic area, a similar population unit or everyone of a certain age or sex, such as the children or women of a region. A pandemic is defined as an extensive epidemic with effects felt worldwide. While many potentially devastating diseases are spread through ingestion or insects, airborne diseases and those spread through physical contact pose higher risks to the community as they are difficult to control. Diseases such as influenza, pertuuis, tuberculosis, and meningitis are all spread through these methods and pose a threat to communities. Health agencies closely monitor for diseases with the potential to cause an epidemic and seek to develop and promote immunizations. A pandemic can be defined as a public health emergency that spans several cmmtries or continents, usually affecting many people. Pandemics are most often caused by new subtypes of viruses or bacteria to which humans have little or no natural immunity. Even when there is a strong healthure system in place, disease outbreaks can strain and overwhelm community resources. A pandemic disease could easily spread person -to -person, causing serious illness, and can sweep across the country and around the world in a very start time. Impacts could range from school and business closings to the interruption of basic services such m public transportation, health care, and the delivery of food and essential medidnes M especially severe pandemic could lead to high levels of illness, death, soda( dbmption, and economic loss. Because of the process utilized to prepare vacdnm, itis impossible to have vaccines pre -prepared to combat pandemics Additionally, for novel vimm, identification of symptoms, mode of transmission, and testing and identification may require development causing significant delays in response actions. Aportion of the human and financial cost of a pandemic is related to the fag time to prepare a vaccine to prevent the future spread of the novel virus. In some uses, current vaccines may have limited activity against novel straim. an illness caused by a family of viruses called hantavimses. HPS is a rare but often serious illness of the lungs. In Montana, the deer mouse is the reservoir for the hantavins. The virus is found in the droppings, ne, and saliva of infected mice. The most common way that a person can get HPS is by breathing in the virus when it is aerosormed (stirred up into the air). People can also become infected after touching mouse droppings or nesting materials that contain the vim and then touching their ryes, nosq or mouth G-gnp(dd Ana Affected The entirety of the Montana Eastern (legion is susceptible to the spread of infectious diseases therefore the geographic area affected is exta whis. Disease usually spreads throughout vulnerable populations and in areas where people We and work in close quarters. Depending on the specifics of the illness, these areas can include shelters, senior homes, schools, and places of business In general, it Is likely that the more populated areas may be affected sooner and may experience higher infection rates The Montana DPHHS has reported 319,02.3 cases of COVID-19 statewide and 3,600 deaths as of December 2, 2D22. The cunent CCVlD-19 pandemic has affected all the counties in the Eastern Region Table 4-6 shows the total uses and deaths specific to the Eastem Region. Data specific to tribes are included in the nearest counties. The Eastern Region comprises approximately 24%of the statewide total rases and 32%of the statewide total deaths. In genera, it is likely, that the more -populated areas municipal areas may be affected sooner and may experience higher infection rates Table 4.6 COVID-19 Cane end Deaths by County (n a( December 09, 2022) B Hom 5,619 426% 102 0.8% Carton Z406 229% 29 03% Carter 287 2132 5 OA% Custer 2M 52 OA% 0ankk 454 26.1% 9 05% Dawson 2,724 303% 59 0.7% Felton 775 252% 11 OA% Garfield 2S0 25.7% 3 03% Golden Va 166 202% 5 0.6% Mccone 436 242% 9 05% Musselshell 1A75 223% 31 0.6% Pawder River 412 23A% t0 Ob1k Prairie 289 23.6% 4 03% Roos It 3,786 34.8% 75 0.7% Rosebud 3 70 363% 62 0.7% Sheridan 882 25A% 13 OA% S611—ter 1701 19.1% 32 DA% Treasure 145. 20.9% 1 0.1% 27.41% 39 0.5% M72 243 239% 8 QB% Wheatlmd 450 21.6% 14 ve8awsrone 49,7601 29.B% I S88 IOA% Eextem Itegi.. 1 80465 29.5% 1 1161 1OAO% Part 0— Since the early 1900% five lethal pandemics have swept the globe, .1'a9el PweW2s._.s'n Montana Ea— W a;- Huard mid'Von Ran Hazard Id.df.don and Rink Asaesenenr Montana Eastam Region Hazard Mir,— Ran Huard Idrntif lien and kkklus—nt • 1918.1919 Spanish Flu: The Spanish Flu was the mostsevere pandemic in recent history. The number of deaths was estimated to be SG-100 million worldwide and 675,000 in the United States. Its primary victims were mostly young, healthy adults. Atone point, more than 10%of the American workforce was bedridden. • 1957.1958 Asian Flu: The 1957 Asian Flu pandemic killed 1.1 million people worldwide, including about 70,000 people in the United States, mostly the elderly and chronically ill. Fortunately, the virus was quickly identified, and vaccine production began in May 1957. • 1968.1969 H3N2 Hong Kong Flu: The 1968 Hang Kong Hu pandemic killed one million people worldwide and approximately 100,000 people in the United States. Again, the elderly were more severely affected. This pandemic peaked during school holidays in December, limiting student -related infections, which may have kept the number of infections down. Also, people infected by the Asian Flu ten years earlier may have gained some resistance to the new virus. • 2009-2010 H1NI Swine Flu: This influenza pandemic emerged from Mexico in early 2009 and was declared a public health emergency in the US on April 26. By June, approximately 18,000 cases had been reported in the US and the virus had spread to 74 countries. Most cases were fairly mild, with symptoms similar to the seasonal flu, but there were cues of severe disease requiring hospitalization and some deaths. On May 11, 2009, the Montana DPHHS reported the state's first confirmed case of swine flu.As of lanuary2l, 2010, therewere 801 confimled rases and 18 confirmed deaths in Montana • 2020-Ongoing COVID-19: The COAD-19 or novel mronavirus was detected in December 2019 and was declared a pandemic in March 2020. As of December 2, 2022, 643 million cases and 6.6 million deaths have been reported globally, including approximately 983 million cases and 1.1 million deaths in the US. Worldwide there have been 13.0 billion vaccine doses administered. The response to the COVID-19 Pandemic included numerous public health orders, including stay -home orders, massive testing infrastructure, the establishment of alternate care sites to support the hospital system, and an unprecedented community -wide vaccination push Montana's news leader KTVQ noted on December 2021 that COMD-19 was the leading cause of death among Montana's Native Americans in 2020. According to a report released by the State's Department of Public Health and Human Services, COVID- 19 was responsible for 251 of the 1,022 total deaths among Montana's Native Americans in 2020. While Native Americans only make up around 7% of the state's population, they accounted for 32% of the deaths and 19%of cases in the state from March to October of 2020 (Schubert 2021). According to the 2019 DPHHS Communicable Disease in Montana Annual Repoli the most recent annual report available, sexually transmitted diseases rank the highest among all the reported communicable diseases, followed by hepatitis, food & water home diseases, and vaccine -preventable diseases, as shown in Figure 4-10. Montana Easum Fpion Hazard Midgatlon Ran Hazard IdmdRudm aM Rsk Aueasment Figure 4.10 2019 Montana DPHHS Communicable Disease Rates ^General Communicable i_ Food&Water home Diseases Diseases 71% I Tex i Hepao�� The report also noted a sudden increase in the incidence of hepatitis A While hepatitis A is spread through ingestion of the virus, primarily through dose person contact or the sharing of contaminated food or drinks, the 2019 outbreak was predominantly linked to injection drug use and transmission among people experiencing homelessness Of the cases of hepatitis, A reported in Montana in 2019, almost half were reported in Yellowstone County. Also noted was the continued increase in the incidence of gonorrhea. However, it is believed that the increase in reported cases is partially due to an increase in screening tests being performed across the state, suggesting that gonorrhea has been underreported for many years. Fr.quenxyNlnfil c!of tmerence Although it is impossible to predict the next disease outbreak recent history shows these outbreaks are not uncommon and are likely to reoccur. Based on the five pandemics that have affected the United States in roughly the last 100 years, a pandemic occurs on average roughly every 20 years. In other words, there is a 5%probability that a pandemic that affects the entire United States will occur in any given year. As a result the likelihood of occurrence for communicable disease is occasional. Fa the current COVID-19 pandemic, due to the vims's ability to mutate and rapidly infect those who are not vaccinated, the pandemic may extend for several years, and booster vaccines may be necessary to prevent future outbreaks. In just the last couple of decades, the word has drastically increased points of transmissions through global travel and trade to levels unseen in human history — this may have a drastic impact an the frequency of pandemics and the speed with which they spread in coming years. Cimatr Chang• corildnetinva As the Earths climate continues to warm researchers pmcli: wild animals will be forced to relocate their habitats — likely to regions with large human populations —dramatically increasing the risk of a viraljump to humans that could lead to the next pandemic This link between climate change and viral transmission is described by an international research team led by scientists at Georgetown University, published in Nature (Georgetown University 2022). The scholars noted that the geographic range shifts due to climate change could cause species that carry viruses to encounter other mammals, sharing associated viruses thousands of times, which may then further be spread to humans. In addition, rising temperatures caused by climate change will impact bats, which account for the majority of novel viral sharing. Bats' abifity to fly will allow them to travel long distances and share viruses in geographically dispersed places. Altogether, the study suggests that climate change will become the biggest upstream risk factor for disease emergence — exceeding higher -profile issues like deforestation, wildlife bade, and industrial agdodtum The authors highlight a need to pair wildlife disease surveillance with real-time studies of environmental change (Carlson, CJ, Albery, G.F., Merow, C. et at, 2022). PoMndel M agribde end Severity The magnitude of a disease outbreak or public health emergency will range significantly depending on the aggressiveness of the virus in question, the ease of transmission, and the efficacy of public health and medical responses. Pandemic influenza is easily transmitted from person to person but advances in medical technologies have greatly reduced the number of deaths caused by influenza over time. Today, a large percentage of the world's population is clustered in cities, making them ideal breeding grounds for epidemics. Additionally, the explosive growth in air travel means a virus could spread around the globe within hours, quickly creating a pandemic Under such conditions, there may be verylittle warning time. It is estimated that one to six months will have lapsed between the time that a dangerous new influenza strain is identified and the time that outbreaks begin to occur in the United States. Outbreaks are expected to occur simultaneously throughout much of the nation, preventing shifts in human and material resources, that normally occur with other natural disasters. These aspects make influenza pandemic unlike most other public health emergencies or community disasters. Pandemia typically last for several months to years. Considering the variations in viruses, the potential magnitude ofcommunioble, disease is critiol. As seen with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the rapid spread of a virus combined with the need for increased hospital and coroner resources, testing centers, first responders, and vacdnation administration sites causes significant strain on the medial system and public health department, Additionally, other public health -related triggers or commingled public health hazards (such as an outbreak of another pathogeni or even more contagious strains of CORD such as the recent Omicron, BAS and Delta 8.1.617.2 variant, an quickly lead to even more outbreaks. The Pandemic Intervals Framework (PIF) is a six -phased approach to defining the progression of an influenza pandemic This framework is used to guide influenza pandemic planning and provides recommendations for risk assessment decision -making, and action. These intervals provide a common method to describe pandemic activities that an inform public health actions. The duration of each pandemic interval might vary depending on the characteristics of the virus and the public health response. The six -phase approachwas designed for the easy incorporation of recommendations into existing national and local preparedness and response plans Phases 1 through 3 correlates with preparedness in the pre - pandemic interval, inducting opacitydevelopment and response planning activities, while Phases 4 through 6 signal the need for response and mitigation efforts during the pandemic interval. Montana Easnm Pa9km Hasid M oobon Ran Huard Idmderacm and Risk Aneument Pn-Pademic Interval Phase 1 is the natural state in which influenza viruses circulate continuously among animals (primarily birds) but do not affect humans. Phase 2 occurs when an animal influenza virus circulating among domesticated or wild animals is known to have caused infection in humans and is thus considered a potential pandemic threat Phase 2 involves cues of animal influenza that have circulated among domesticated or wild animals and have caused specific rues of infection among humans. Phase 3 represents the mutation of the animal influenza virus in humans sa that it can be transmitted to other humans under certain circumstances (usually very dose contact between individuals). At this paint small dusters of infection have occurred. Phase 4 is characterized byverified human -to -human transmission of thev)nus able to cause'community- level outbreaks.' The abifityto cause sustained disease outbreaks in a communitymarks a significantupward shiltin the risk for a pandemic Phase 4 involves community -wide outbreaks as the virus continues to mutate and becomes more easily transmitted between people (for example, transmission through the air) Plisse 5 is characterized by verified human -to -human spread of the virus in at least two countries in one WHO region. While most countries will not be affected at this stage, the declaration of Phase S is a strong signal that a pandemic is imminent and that the time to finalize the organization communication, and implementation of the planned mitigation measures is short Phan 6, the pandemic phase, is characterized by community -level outbreaks in at least one other country in a different WHO region in addition to the criteria defined in Phase S. The designation of this phase will indicate that a global pandemic is underway. VulmerebiBty Asaeonent Pkople Pandemics can affect large segments of the population for long periods. The number of hospitalizations and deaths will depend on the virulence of the virus. Risk groups cannot be predicted with certainty, the elderfy, people with underlying medical conditions, and young children are usually at higher risk but as discussed above, this is not always the rue. People without health coverage or access to good medical rare are also likely to be more adversely affected. According to the 2020 ACS S-Year Estimates of the Eastern Region, 185%of the Region's population is 65 years of age or older, 5.7%of the population is 5 years of age or younger, and 11.7%experienced poverty in the prior 12 months. For comparison, within the State of Montana, those over 65 years of age make up 18.7%of the population those under foe years of age make up 5.8%of the population, and 128%of the States population had income in the past 12 months below poverty level. This shows that the population at risk to communicable disease in Eastern Montana is similar to the States population exposure. However, impacts, mortality rates, speed and type of spread are disease specific As seen with the current COVID-19 pandemic statewide, according to the State's DPHHS, the most positive cases occurred in the 30- 49 age group. Hospitalizations and deaths, however, happened more within the over50 age group. P'9.ry Communicable diseases would not have direct impacts on infrastructure or the built environment Should infrastructure require human intervention to fulfill vital functions, these functions could be impaired by absenteeism sick days and isolation, quarantine, and disease prophylaxis measures. As concerns about contamination increase, property may be quarantined or destroyed as a precaution against spreading illness. Additionally, traditional sheltering facilities, including shelters for persons experiencing homelessness or facilities to support displaced persons during an evacuation cannot be done in a ManUna Elam Region Head MWgstion Han !hood Idevifi.t-and Wok Amnvnmt Marna Peahen Pagan Haord Mitigation Pun FUawd Idendfiodon.M Rik Aanemnt congregate setting. This requires additional planning considerations or the use of facilities that allow for non -congregate shelter settings which may require an approval from FEMA and may have an increased cost C,ritiml Facilities end Lifelines The impacts of a communicable disease on critical infrastructure and lifelines would comer on service disruption due to staff missing work and on shortages in essential resources and supplies to perform s seen with personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemicyrithin the health and medical sector. While automated systems and services that allow for the physical distancing of staff from other persons may fare better through a communicable disease incident all critical infrastructure sectors and lifelines would likely be affected due to the globalization of supply chains, services, and interdependency of most communities. Sco^cier0' A widespread communicable disease outbreak could have devastating impacts on the Eastern Region's economy. The economic impacts fall under two categories —economic losses as a result of the disease, and econamic lasses to fight the disease. Economic impacts as a result of a disease include those costs associated with lost work and business interruption. Depending on the disease and the type and ate of spread, businesses could see a loss of consumer base as people self -isolate or avoid travel. This could last for a protracted amount of time, compounding economic loss. Economic costs are also associated with incident response. Two of the biggest areas of cast are public information efforts and mass prophylaxis. In a normal year, lost productivity due to illness costs US employers an estimated $530 billion. During a pandemic that figure would likely be considerably high and could trigger a recession or even a depression. According to an October 2020 report by The Journal of American Medical Association (LAMA) Network the estimated cumulative financial costs of the COMD-19 pandemic related to the COND-19 economic recession and compromised health (premature death, mental health, long -tern health impairment) in the US population was almost $16 trillion. As of July 29, 2021, the Montana Coranavirus Relief Fund has awarded over $819 million to businesses and nonprofits across the State to support economic recovery efforts. Historic and Cultural Resaurw As mentioned previously, communicable diseases would not have specific impacts an the built or natural environment, including historic and cultural resources. However, historic and cultural resources are often intertwined with the tourism industry, therefore reduced tourism could lead to impacts such as a loss of revenue needed for resource maintenance. Natural Resources Impacts on natural resources can vary. Some ecosystems showed signs of improvement during peak covid - 19 loddown. However, some zoonatic diseases can spread from animals to humans, wreaking havoc on both populations. Examples of zoonatic diseases include avian flu, swine flu, tuberculosis, plague, and tables. Develapnrnt Tmma Relatedto HoamdradRisk Population growth and development contribute to pandemic exposure. Future development in the Eastern Region has the potential to change haw infectious diseases spread through the community and impact human health in both the short and long term New development may increase the number of people and facilities exposed to public health hazards and greater population concentrations (often found in special needs facilities and businesses) put more people at risk During a disease outbreak those in the immediate isolation area would have little to no warning, whereas the population further away in the dispersion path Marten. Eastem Region Hic rd Mitigation Han Mood Idasnifiution and Risk — .-- may have some time to prepare and mitigate against disease depending on the hazard, its transmissiam and public notification. 16dn Summary In summary, the Communicable Disease hazard is considered to be overall Medium significance for the Region. Variations in risk byjurisdiction are summarized in the table below, along with key issues from the vulnerability assessment Pandemics affecting the US. occur roughly once every 20 years, meaning there is a roughly 5%chance a pandemic will happen each year, but they cannot be reliably predicted. • Effects on people will vary, while the elderly, people with underlying medical conditions, and young children are usuallyat higher risk • Effects on property are typically minimal, although quarantines could result in short-term closures. • Effects on economy, lost productivity due to illness and potential business closures could potentially have severe economic impacts. Social distancing requirements and fear of public gatherings could significantly reduce in -person commerce. Effects on critical facilities and infrastructure: community lifelines, such as healthcare facilities, like hospitals will be impacted and may he overwhelmed and have difficulty maintaining operations due to bed availability, medical staffing shortages, and lack of PPE and other supplies Unique jurisdictional vulnerability. As mentioned above, COMD-19 was the leading cause of death In Montana's Native American tribes, likely due to economic and societal structures. • Ongoing mitigation activities should I— on disease prevention, especially during flu season. This includes, but is not limited to, pre -season community outreach campaigns to educate the public about risks and available support establishing convenient vaccination centers; reaching out to vulnerable populations and caregivers; and issuing advisories and warnings. • Related Hazards: Human Conflict Table 4-7 Risk Summary Table: Communicable Disease East— Region Medium Big Hem High Hard , Lodge Grass Big Han has the lowest rate of inumer,a, and the highest rate of CMD-19 infections In the Eastem region, which suggest vulneabiLty to .amicable disco s. Carbon Madam Beamreek, Bridger, Joriet Fromberi Red Lod e None Carter Medium Ekalaka one Custer I Mecum Isms ,Mlles City None CroaTrbe Medium NA Danish Med m Sa.bay.Fla..ilk None Dawson law Rkhy, Glendwe None Fallon med.. Pkvna, Baker Societal and economic sm,clurn have increased pace wtcames from canmunkable diseases in Native canmunilies. Gerfeld Medm Jordan Garfield has the lowest population density of an —des in Montana which lowers the risk of municable,lbanespread. Galden V.Xy Med m Ryiegal.. Levku None Mccaoe Low circle Dawson has a Iaw population density and . high rate of health insurance, lowering the iskd spread and immersing it. probablay at medal intewmtmn. Mussebhell Medium M:htane. Rwndu None Powder River Lox Braadui None Praise Me•Gum Terry Asignifi ns portion of Prairie Co.dys pnwlatbn Is over the age of 55 and b therefam m ue tibk to canmunkabledireasec Richland Madam Fairview Sidra None R—,..h High wall Point Poppy Roosevelt hew the highest rate of poverty in the Bainsige, Culbimax, Freid Eastern Region which would impact its ability to adepts— mmmunkable disease event Rosebud Medium Cohen , Forsyth I None Sheridan Medium Pkntywood, Medic be None take0udook Wes Stillwater Medm Columbus None Treasure Medium Hyhma Non. Valley law Glasgow, Fort Peck None Nashu O e Wile.. M.dium Via— None Yellowstone High Bilfngs,11roadviewl-wrel Yellowstone has the largest popu4tion per aquam mile of+8 counties in Marruna, which increases dire Bkehhood of diseases read 423 CybarvAttack Harrd/Probkm, Deaaiption The Merriam -Webster dictionary defines cyber-attacks as 'an attempt to gain illegal access to a computer or computer system to cause damage or harm.' Cyber-attacks use malicious code to alter computer operations or data The vulnerability, of computer systems to attacks is a growing concern as people and institutions became mare dependent upon networked technologies. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FeO reports that 'gber intrusions are becoming more commonplace, more dangers, and more sophisticated,'with implications forprivaa-and pubbcsector networks Cyber threats cantake marry fors, including: • Phishingattado; Phishing attacks are fraudulent communications that appearto come from legitimate sources. Phishing attacks typically came through email but may come through text messages as well. Phishing may also be considered a type of social engineering meant to exploit employees into prying fake invoices, proving passwords, or sending sensitive information. Mahvan atbrke Mahvare is malicious code that may infect a computer system Malware typically gains a foothold when a user visits an unsafe site, downloads untrusted saftwam or may be downloaded in conjunction with a phhhing attack MAware can remain undetected for years and spread across an entire network • Raraomwan: Ramamwam typically blacks access to a jurist iction'Vagencys/ business data by encrypting it Perpetrators will ask for a ramom to provide the security key and decrypt the data, although many ansommum victims never get their data back even after paying the ransom Distributed Denial of Service (DDoq attakc Perhaps the most common type of cyber-atack, a DDoS attack seeks to overwhelm a network and causes it to either be inaccessible or shut down. A DDoS typically uses other infected systems and intemet-connected devices to 'required' information from a specific network or server that is not configured or powerful enough to handle the traffic M.— U— maglon Word Mitigation Mn Wuxi Idendfiudon and is, As.a • Data bra clu Hackers gaining access to large amounts of personal, sensitive, orconfidential information has become increasingly common in recent years. In addition to networked systems, data breaches can occur due to the mishandling of external drives. • Critical Infr sbuctu./SCADA System atteda There have been recent critical infrastructure Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system attacks aimed at taking doom Gfefinn such as power plants and wastewater facilities. These attacks typically combine a for of phishing, mahvare, or other social engineering mechanisms to gain across to the system Cyber-attacks are rapidly increasing in the United States, The FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) was developed to provide the public with a direct way to report rybercrimes to the FeL In 2021, the FBI Internet Crime Report reported a record number of ryber-attacks, with a T%increase fmm 2020. The events reported to the FBI are used to track the trends and threats from gber criminals to combat ryber threats and protect U.S. citizens, businesses, and government fmm future attacks. Geographic Ana AAMad Cyber-attacks can and have occurred in every location regardless of geography, demographics, and security pasture Anyone with information online is vulnerable to a ryber-attack Incidents may involve a single location or multiple geographic areas. A disruption can have far-reaching effects beyond the location of the targeted system; disruptions that occur far outside the State can still impact people businesses, and institutions within Eastern Region. All servers in the Eastern Region are potentially vulnerable to cyber- atacks. Businesses, industry, and even individuals are also susceptible to ryber-attacks. Therefore, the geographic extent of ryber-attack is significant. - prat a — According to the FBrs 2021 Internet Crime Report the FBI received 276 million complaints with 518.7 billion In losses over the last five years due to ryber-attacks. The Crime Report also noted a trend of increasing cylamarime complains and losses each year. Nationwide losses in 2021 alone exceeded $6.9 billion, a 392% increase since 2017.Accoding to the 2021 Report Monona ranked 48/57 among U.S. territories in the mtal number of victims, with 1,188 victims of ryber-crime, and 49"' in total victim losses, with $10,107,283 in total losses. Data on past ryber-attacks impacting Monona was gathered from The Privacy Rights Clearinghouse. The Privacy Rights Clearinghouse, a non-prefit organization based in San Diego, maintains a timeline of 9,741 data breaches resulting from computer hacking incidents in the United States from 2005-2021. The database fists 35 data breaches against systems located in Montana mafng almost 1S million impacted recards; it is difficult to know have many of those affected residents in the Montana Eastem Region. Attacks happening outside of the Sate can also impact local businesses, personal identifiable information and credit card inforatio. Table 4A shows several of the most significant ryber-attacks in Montana in recent years. The data aims to provide a general understanding of the impacts of cybei-attacks by compiling an up-to-date fist of incidens but is limited by the availability of daa:'This is an incompleta look at the tore scope of the problem due in part to varying state laws.' Table 4-8 Major Cyber Attacks Impacting Montaru (10,000a Records), 2005.2021 7/7/2014 Montana Department Healthcare lABL509 Wicked by an 0.1xide Party or of Public Health R Infected by Maknrc Human S.wk. 1/30/2008 Oevldmn CompaNes Great guineas 22G000 Hacked by Wblde Party or 1 Fags Infected bv MAvem Fr9•I..::.. yr.(a. Montana E.— Rapier H—Mitgadon pan H ,ol Idm F-tim and Rh rusnsment _ Mar— as— Pr9 Hurd Mitpation Plan Maurd bmdfiration antl Risk Anmm�t J/nyL011 Onhaf,tmdana 0ulhhys Heahhcarc 37.1%q Portahle Device Gott, discarded or stolen laptop PDA. emery atkI; tmafpmm�P ee nod�i.= datataue a:c. 1/li/2016 Now Wn, Health Kdi,_N _ I H�-Ah", 231cr PM.U. DWce Qst.dnned.d gmicp[ dos New m sldrn UFI.R POA. Wen Mednre smanplame. memory stkk CDs, hard drive, dntx UPC etCJ 4/Id/1017 Eastern Heahh Healthcare 15,326 PHYS Screen uuuu'tae�,uu in total, the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse has reported 35 attacks in Montana since 2005 with a total of 1,471,889 records. Of these records lost in Montana, a majority were from healthcare organizations. It is difficult to know how many of these incidents affected residents in the Montana Eastern Region. The Montana Department of Agriculture temporarily took the USAHERD5 web -based software online in the year 2021 to allow the applications developer to beef up security following a suspected Chinese state- sponsa red ryberattack USAHERDS is used to track livestock by at least 18 US states. The suspected attacker — APT41, had carried out a hacking campaign that comprised the networks of at least six US state governments (Power 2022). In February 2020, it ls reported that Ryuk ransomwere hacked the computer system of the Havre Public Schools. Despite the m jorscare, itwas eventually concluded that the hackers did not gain access to student and employee information (Dragu 2020). On April 3, 2015, Eastern Montana Clinic notified almost 7,000 patients of a payment data hack The hacker bypassed the manic website's security measures and obtained access to the demographic and credit card information of 6,994 patients who paid their bill(s) via the rink on the Clinic's website. The information available to the hacker included patient names, addresses, telephone numbers, email addresses, dates and amounts of credit card transactions, and the last four digits of patients' credit card numbers. In addition, approximately 44 patients' full credit card information was compromised. The Clinic took steps to mitigate ny further harrl to patients from this security incident I'Eastem Montana Clnlc Notifies Almost 7,000 Patients Of Payment Data Hack' 2015). Fnquwvcy/lirdilood of Omnwrn Small-scale ryber-attacks such as DDoS attacks occur daily, but most have negligible impacts at the local or regional level. Data breaches are also extremely common, but again most have only mfnar impacts on government services. Additionally, the FBI Internet Crime Report 2021 found that there is a trend of increasing ryber-attacks over the past 5 years. These trends are shown in Figure 4-11. of a smaller scale, ranging from 201 records to approximately 1.06 million, along with several cases in which an indeterminate number of records may have been stolen. Ransomware attacks are typically described in terms of the amount of ransom requested, or the amount of time and money spent to recover from the attack One report from cybersecurity rim Emsisoft estimates the average successful ransomwam attack costs $91 million and can take 237 days to recover from. Therefore, the potendal magnitude and severity of ryber-attack is Critical. Vuuiaerl firAaau9r M P-aP4 Injuries or fatalities from gber-attacks would generally only be possible from a major ryber-terrorist attack against critical infrastructure. More likely impacts on the public are financial losses and an inability to access systems such as public websites and permitting sites. Indirect impacts could include interruptions to traffic control systems or other infrastructure. The FBI Internet Crime Reports on the victims of gber-attack by age group. While the number of cyber- attack complaints is comparable across age groups, the losses increase significantly as age group increases, with individuals 60 years and alder experiencing the greatest losses. This is likely due to seniors being less aware of cyberthrons, lack of the tools to identify gberthmats, and -Grandparent Scams; which is a cyberattack where criminals impersonate a loved one in need, such as a grandchild, and ask for money. Figure 4-12 displays the breakdown of victims by age group in 2021. Mm%na Easnm Region Havrd Mao— pan Montana U—Ng- — Mleylian pan Huard Idmnfina'm and NAAves I Haurtl Wmdfiutim and pskAarsviwnt Figure 4-11 Trends of the Frequency of Cyber-attacks, 2017.2021 Complaints and Losses over the Last Five Years 2017 301.590 51.4 e.11— 2.76 Million Total Complaints 2018 351.93] s],NI: p., $18.7 Billion Totallosses 2019 — 4eT.35t 2020 sa.2 er,.on 2021 $6.9 elllgn ■ Complaints ■ Losses Soumc the ntl W— Gime Reppn 2021 Perhaps of greatest concern to the Eastern Region are ransomware attacks, which are becoming increasingly common.lt is difficult to calculate the odds of the Eastern Region orone of itsjudsdictons being hitwith a successful ransomware attack in any given year, but it is likely to be attacked in the coming years. The possibility of a larger dismptian affecting systems within the Region is a constant threat but it is difficult to quantify the exact probability due to such highly variable factors as the type of attack and intent of the attacker. Major attacks specifically targeting systems or infrastructure in the Eastern Region cannot be ruled cut. Therefore, the probability of _future Cyber-attack is amsfanal. CYn.t. Cl..g. Canddmt;o- Changes in development have no impact on the threat, vulnerability, and consequences of a Cyber-attack Potan" Magnitude and severity There is no universally accepted scale to explain the severity of Cyber-attacks. The strength of a DDoS attack is often explained in temp of a data transmission rate. One of the largest ODos disruptions ever, known as the Dyn Attack which occurred on October 21, 2016, peaked at 1.2 terabytes per second and impacted some of the internet's most popular sites, including Ammon, Netfl'lx, PayPal, Twitter, and several news organl]atiom. Data breaths are often described in terms of the number of records or identities exposed. The largest data breach ever reported occurred in August 2013, when hackers gained access to all three billion Yahoo accounts. The hacking incidents associated with Montana in the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse database are Figure 4-12 Victims by Age Group In 2021 ear 20 ■ coTau.,n ■ tnsn ® M,919 M SI01eM,— ® 20-29 ® W,390 ®1431.l ssnK., ® 30-39 —11aw —$931.3 A41v, ® 40-49 —eatw 51.19&Ran ® so.s9 � 7060 SI]6aion 60+ ® 923fl f 141 Bi91m S ,ox TuMIntemat ComaRW,d2021 Mo Moer-attacks affect only data and computer systems and have minimal impact on the general property. However, sophisticated attacks have occurred against the SCADAsystems of critical infrastructure, which could potentially result in system failures on a scale equal to natural duasters. Facilities and infrastructure such as the electriol grid could became unusable. Aeyber-attack took dawn the power grid in Ukraine in 2015, leaving over230,000 people without power. A ransomware attack on the Colonia Pipeline in 2021 caused temporary gas shortages on the East Coast. The 2003 Northeast Blackout while not the result of a Cyber-attack caused 11 deaths and an estimated $6 billion in economic loss. Crib..( Fo rilitin rrrrdL(fdi— An article pasted on July 31, 202Z by government technology mentions that despite the lack of major headline -grabbing Cyber-attacks against US. critical infrastructure so far in 2024 our global gber battles continue to increase. Worldwide eyber actions are becoming less covert Besides. according to IBM's 2022 annual Cost of a Data Breach Report almost 80 percent of critical infrastructure organlrations studied don't adopt zero -trust strategies, seeing average breach costs rise to $SA million - a $1.17 million increase compared to those that do. All while 28 percent of breaches amongst these organitabonswere mnsomware or destructive attacks (Lohrmann 21322). Montana Eattam Raglan Haaw Mitigation non 1taaN dmeRrae'm aM Pick Assessmem Montana Eastern re9u• Ha am Mlagatbn Rbn 1 dkianklicdonand Risk Amnsmem Cyber-attacks can interfere with emergency response communications, access to mobile data terminals, and access to critical pre -plans and response documents. According to the Cyber & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), eyber risks to 9-1-1 systems can have 'severe impacts, including loss of life or property, job disruption for affected network users; and financial costs for the misuse of data and subsequent resalution" CISA also compiled a recent list of attacks on 9d-1 systems including a DDaS in Arizona, unauthorized access with stolen credentials in Canada, a network outage in New York and a ransomware attack in Baltimore. Momover, the delivery of services can be impacted since governments rely to a great extent on the electronic delivery of services. Most agencies rely on server backups, electronic backups, and remate options for Continuity of Operations and Continuity of Government Access to documents on the network OneDrive access, and other operations that require collaboration across the Eastern Region will be significantly impacted. In addition, public confidence in the govemmentwill likely suffer if systems such as permitting, DMV, voting, or publicwebsites are down fora prolonged amount oftimm An attack could raise questions regarding the security of using electronic systems for government services. E a^^ry Data breaches and subsequent identity thefts can have huge impacts on the public The F01 Internet Crime Report 2021 reported losses in Montana due to cyber-attacks totaled $10,107,283 in 2021 alone. Economic impacts from a cyber-attack can be debilitating. The ryber-attark in 2018 that took down the City of Atlanta cast at least $25 million in contractor costs and an estimated $95 million additional funds to bring everything back online. The attack in Atlanta took more than a third of the 424 software programs offline and recovery lasted more than 6 months. The 2018 cyber-attack on the Colorado Department of Transportation cast an estimated $15 million. None of these statistia consider the economic losses to businesses and ongoing IT configuration to mitigate a future cyber-attack Additionally, a 2016 study by Kaspersky Lab found that roughly one in five ranscanware victims who pay their attackers never recover their data. A 2017 study found ansomware payments over a two-year period totaled more than $16 milrian Even if a victim is perfectly prepared with full affline data backups, recovery from a sophisticated ransomware attack typically costs far more than We demanded ransom. Historic and Cultural Reroume, Most cyber incidents have fittle to no impact on historic, cultural or natural resources. A major cyber terrorism attack could potentially impact the environment by triggering a release of hazardous materiels, or by causing an accident involving hazardous materials by disrupting traffic control devices. Natural Resouaaas Most cyber-attacks would have a limited impact on natural resources. There are cases, such as a cyber- attack on a hydroelectric dam that could result in catastrophic consequences to natural and human -built environments in the case of a flood. If a cbei-attack occurred on several upstream dams and released significant amounts of water downstream, the additional pressure put on downstream dams could fail, resulting in massive flood events. This would not onlyleopardize the energy system that reli on these dams but also cause significant damage to the natural environment D—lopment heard, Related to Hazards and Rick Changes in development have no impact on the threat, vulnerability, and comequences of a cyber-attack Cyber-attacks can and have targeted small and large jurisdictions, multi -billion -dollar companies, small mom-and-pop shops, and individual citizens. The decentralized nature of the intemet and data centers means that the cyber threat is shared by all, regardless of new construction and changes in development 42A Dam Failure H=ard/Pmbl,m Description A dam is a barrier constructed across a watercourse that stares, controls, or diverts water. Dams are constructed for a variety of uses, including flood protection power, agriculturefirigatroR water supply, and recreation. The water impounded behind a dam is referred to as the reservoir and is usually measured in acre-feet. with one acre-foot being the volume of water that covers one acre of land to a depth of one foot Depending on local topography, even a small dam may have a reservoircontaining many ace -feet of water. Dams serve many purposes, including irrigation control providing recreation areas, electrical power generation, maintaining water levels, and flood control Dam failures and releases from dams during heavy rain events can result in downstream flooding. Water released by a failed dam generates tremendous energy and an cause a flood that is catastrophic to rife and property. Two factors that influence the potential severity of a full orpartial dam failure are the amount of water impounded and the density, type, and value of downstream development and infrastructure The speed of omet depends on the type of failure If the dam is inspected regulady then small leaks allow for adequate waming time. Once a dam is breached, however, failure and resulting flooding occurs rapidly. Dams an fail at any time of year, but the results are most catastrophic when the dams fill or overtop during winter or spring rain/snowmelt events. A catastrophic dam failure could challenge local response capabilities and require evacuations to save lives. Impacts to rife safety would depend an the warning time and the resources available to ratify and evacuate the public and could include major loss of life and potentially catastrophic damage to roads, bridges, and homes. Associated water quality and health concems could also be an issue. Dam failures are often the result of prolonged rainfall and overtopping, but can happen in any conditions due to emsion piping, structural deficiencies, lack of maintenance and repair, or the gradual weakening of the dam over time. Other factors that can lead to dam failure include earthquakes, landslides, improper operation rodent activity, vandarism, or terrorism According to FEMA dams are classified in three categories that identify the potential hazard to life and Property • High harard - Dams where failure/m's-operation will probably cause loss of human rife. • Significant hazrard- Dams where failure or misoperation results in no probable loss of human rife but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, disruption of lifeline fadlities, or impact other concems. Significant haord potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be located in areas with population and significant infrastructure • Low hazrrd - Dams where failure or mb operation results in rev probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owners property. Dam inundation can also occur from non -failure events or incidents such as when outlet releases increase during periods of heavy rains or high inflows. Controlled releases to allow water to escape when a reservoir is overfilling an help prevent future overtopping or failure When outlet releases are not enough spillways are designed to allow excess water to exit the reservoir and prevent overtopping. This can protect the dam but result in flooding downstream Dam safety incidents are defined as situations at dams that require an immediate response by dam safety engineers. Detailed below in Table 4-10 are the high, significant and low hazard dams orgen¢ed by county in the Eastern region. The Eastern region has the lowest number of high hazard dams of the three region, in the State, and 100%of the high hazard dams have Emergenq Action Plans (EAPs) on file. Monona Eaatam Pegim HaaN Mirgatbn ran Montana Easbm Pegbn -H Miagatbn Plan Hazard Idmtifiauon and Risk-assmmt Huard Mmnfiudan aM Risk Mnvnnt Risk summary • Overall cyber-attacks are rated as a Medium significance in the planning area • Cyber-attacks can occur anywhere and an any computer network therefore, this hazard is rated as significant location. • There is an increasing trend in the number of cyber-attacks in the U5. each year, therefore, the frequency of fiber -attack is rated as likely. Cyberattacks can result in significant economic losses, interruptions of critical facilities and services, and confidential data leaks; therefore, magnitude is ranked as Critical. People ages 60+ are the most likely age group to experience the greatest monetary losses, although anyone of any age can be a victim to a cyber-attack • Small businesses worth less than $10 million and local governments are increasingly becoming targets for cyber-attack with criminals assuming these smaller organizations will lack the resources to prevent an attack Critical infrastructure, such as the energy grid and first responder communication, is vulnerable to cyber-attack and disruption. • Significant economic losses an result from ryber-attacks if the attackers ask for ransom. • Jurisdictions with a significantly large population and advanced infrastructure are most likely to experience cyber-attacks. Table 4-9 Rak Summary Table: Cybar-Attadr Medium None Mae.. He,&n Lodge Go. Non. 7D- Medium Bearcreek, Bddgw. Jolie, Franberg, Red Lodge None Medum Elial k. None Medium Ism ,Mies C' None Medium Medium Sc ,Haxwle None Medm Rich G1md None Falco Medium Hems. Baker None Garfield Medium Jordan None Gdd-Vailey Medium Ryegate. lavna None MCCme med. Circle None Mussekhet Me& m M.10.&R—ckr, Nme PowdarRiver Medm Broadus Nme Prairie Medium Terry None Richland Medm Fiuview Sider None Roosevelt Me&m Wall Print. Poplar, Bainvlle, CvRsmon, Frond None Rosebud Medm Colsorip, Forsyth Nme Shedd. Medanm Plentynaock Medrine Lake, Outlook Westby None Stillwater Medium Columbus None Treasure Medium H hem Nme Valley Medm Gla ,Fart Peck Nashu; Opheir. Nme Wbaux Medium Wib. None Yellowstone High Biro BrmcFA Lmrel Name Tabb 4.10 Fastem Region Dam Summary Table County a High Haul a significant a tow Total Parcentge of High hared Dam with EAP HIFLa 2ea2 Moran DFS, NH Geographical Ana AfhCled The geographical area affected bydam failure is potentially algnificantAccording to the National Inventory of Dams (NID), there are a total of 1,647 dams throughout the counties of the Eastern Region. Thirty-one (31) of these dams am high hazard, and 73 are significant hazard dams, with the remainder are low hazard dam. These dams are mapped in Figure 4.13 and described in detail in thejurisdictional annexes. All the high'hazard dams in the Eastern Region have EAPs on file. In some rases, inundation mapping is available for analysis, but typically limited to privately awned high harmd dams, based on data from the MT DNRC. Additionally, there are limited inundation nines forda ms owned by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BU), used with permission Other federally owned dams are highlighted in yellow and do not have publicly available inundation mapping. It is important to note that a lade of mapped inundation areas prevents identifying assets likely to be affected by dam failure but does not indicate the absence of risk naune•ia Fu1•rn lu,,• Damr uwo• s uam sauum n000s in moncana nave pnmarmy peen aswoasen win nvenne ano nasn rimaing. —oromg to the 2023 Montana State Hazard Mitigation Plan (SHMP) and the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (Montana DNRC), aging infrastructure is largely to blame for a number of failed dams in Montana. There have been numerous small failures primarily related to deterioration of corrugated metal pipe outlet works, which rouses slow release of reservoir contents along the outside of the outlet pipe, with minimal downstream property damage but serious damage to the structure. Dams with potential for loss of life downstream are subject to stringent permitting, impection, operation, and maintenance requirements. Deficiencies and problems are identified in advance and actions taken to mitigate the chance that the deficiency leads to failure. If a deficiency cannot be immediately addressed due to lack of data or lack of dam owner resources, risk reduction measures are put in place. According to the 2023 State of Montana Multi -Hazard Mitigation Plan, there have been three past dam failures or incidents in the Eastern Region. The following information concerning these events is excerpted from the 2018 SHMP. • March 1937 - The Midway Dam, located 40 miles northwest of Nashua in Valley County, suffered a breach during a flood on the Porcupine Creek The spillway was undermined by floating ice, leading to a failure and subsequent four -foot wall of water which swept through the valley and caused extensive damage. July 1946-The Canal Dam, in Sheridan County eight miles northwest of Plentywood, failed ahem sevend inches of rainfall in the area over a short period of time. There were no fatalities in this incident but there was extensive damage and destruction of homes and farm buildings throughout the valley beneath the dam. June 23, 2002 - Ross Dam in Garfield County failed, prompting downstream evacuations, but with limited damage downstream. Once house was flooded and several downstream stock dams broke, and gravel roads were washed out F^quer"A kef lmW af Omarwrce Dam failures in the United States typically occur in one of four ways: • Dam overtopping occurs when the water level behind the dam exceeds the top of the dam. Overtopping accounts for 34%of all dam failures, can occur due to inadequate spillway design, settlement of the dam crest. blockage of spillways, and other factors. • Foundation defects due to differential settlement slides, slope instability, uplift pressures, and foundation seepage can also cause dam failure. These account for 30%of all dam failures • Internal erosion or piping of an earth dam takes place when water that seeps through the dam carries soil particles may from the embankment filters, draim, foundation, or abutments of the dam. Failure due to piping and seepage accounts fa 20%of all failures. These are caused by internal erosion due to piping and seepage, erosion along hydraulic structures such as spillways, erosion due to animal burrows, and cracks in the dam structure. • Failure due to problems with conduits and valves, typically caused by the piping of embankment material into conduits through joints or sacks, constitutes 10%of all failures. River near the Town of Melstone in Musselshell County and the Depression Detention Dam near the Tovm of Bddger. According to correspondence between MT DES and the Montana Dam Safety Program Supervisor in the Water Resources Division there were no dams identified in Easwm Montana that meet the HHPD eligibility criteria as specified in the notice of funding opportunity. See Annex A Carbon County and Addendum R Musselshell County for more details on these dams. MTDES and the participatingjurisdictions will continue to monitor dam conditions and may amend this plan if additional high heard potential dams are assessed as being in poor condition - Terrorism and vandalism are serious concerns that all operators of public facilities must plan far, these threats are under continuous renew by public safety agencies. All of these factors considered, and taking into consideration the record of past evens, the fike6hood of a catastrophic dam failure is unlikely, but still possible. This gives a probability rating for dam failure of le likely. Compared to the other regions in the state, the relative lack of high and significant hazard dams in the Eastern Region means a generally lower risk of future severe consequences or casualties fram this hazard. However, low hazard dams could still potentially fail and muse issues downstream though not enough data is available to determine the magnitude or detail how impactful a low hazard dam could be on their surrounding communities. Climate Ch..ge C—lid ration Changes in rainfall runoff, and snowpack conditions may each have signiflmnt impaar on water resources, including dams. As of this HMP update it is not dear if climate change will affect dam hazards negatively, but some level of caution is warranted. Dam safety is a high priority in Montana, the state has made a considerable investment developing laws and rules for the design, construction, and maintenance of dams to ensure dam safety. The state has a staffed dam safety program that conducts a sophisticated inspection Program. However, dam failures have happened when evens occurred that were unforeseen when the structures were designed and built For example, the Canal Dam in Sheridan County and the Ross Dam in Garfield County, both lotted in the Eastern Region failed in 1946 and 2002, respectively due to several inches of rainfall over a short period of time. With regard to climate change, a fundamental concern is that future conditions will be different from past conditions used to develop design parameters for existing dams. Extreme weather evens have occurred throughout history, a pattern that seems to be accelerating as dimate charge progresses. Further complicating matters, many climate change impacts are indirect and difficult or impossible to predict The 2021 Montana Climate Change and Human Health report considers climate 'wrprises' to be the third greatest concem with climate change impacts to human health. Cascading effects ofwiddfire are one potential source of climate change'surprise that is especially relevant to dam safety. Wildfire scars can alter watershed hydrology, causing extreme, unprecedented mnoff tha .uses t flash flooding and often causes debris flows that an impact nearby dam facilities. The concern in this h smse is that a future wildfire regime could leave unprecedented fire scars. If an extreme precipitation .._.,,,......_.,_, ..._.............. .........,._ �.r......,.,.,.._.._.... ......... .................,_., , ...y,....,,........y page IhHorJ/dnrcmtaov/V✓ater•ftesaurcxs/Dam-SafeN/1. Despite the lade of study to document specific impacts of climate change on dam safety, it is prudent to continue to manitorchanging science -based studies in future HMP updates Pot iow Mgritlda and sacredly As noted above, dams are classified as High Hazard Potential if failure is likely to result in loss of life, or Significant Hazard Potential if failure is likely to cause property damage, emnomk loss, emimnmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. The US Army Corp of Engineers(USACE) uses three mteg.6mto classify a dams potential hazard to rife and property. • High hazard indicates that a failure would most probably result in the loss of fife. Significant hazard indicates that a failure could result in appreciable property damage • Low hazard indicates that failure would result in only minimal property damage and loss of rife is unlikely. • Undetermined hazard dams have not been rated or their hazard rating is not known. These dam hazard designations an be used as an indicator of the potential magnitude and severity that is possible on a site -by -site bass. Based on the record of past events in the region and the hazard rankings of the regions dams, the impacts of dam failure or incident is limited. The potential magnitude of a dam failure In the planning area could change in the future; the hazard significance of certain dams could increase if development occurs in inundation areas. VmdrwrabiFrq Assesanent The dam failure VufnembiliryAssessment identifies assets are both likely to be exposed in the event of a dam failure and susceptible to damage from that exposure In this context assets are (1) people, (2) property, (3) critical facilities and lifelines, (4) the economy, (S) historic and mItural resources, and (6) natural resaurces. Exposure is defined here as interacting with dam failure hazards, and likely to be exposed indicates a presence in areas deemed to be especially likely to experience dam failure hazards. Susceptible indicates a strong likelihood of damage from exposure to dam failure hazards. Fnally, vulnerability under future conditions is considered below as itmiates to development in the section titled Development Tiend:Reloted fo Hazards and Risk. The effects of climate change on future conditions are mmidered above in the subsection tided Climate Change Considerations. The analysis of dam failure vulnerability is simplified somewhat by the assumption that any person or physical abject that comes into contact with flooding from a dam failure is susceptible to damage. This assumption is based on some key characteristics of dam failure hazards. Dam failure flooding can be among the most violent hazards in existence. The flooding hazard also has definite boundaries. Finally, dam failure flooding can occur with little or no warning and possibly at night when warning andevacuation are difficult, . Yyal4+o 'rwel4rz Marlene Easam Iteyim Have Midyatbn Ran Wan Idmd6ravm and Risk Assnammt Montana faaem Pc9ion Hazard MIcp,n Pbn H+ran Idmdfiu8m ad Nu, As—. For hazard mitigation planning purposes, it is assumed that anything in the designated flood inundation zones vulnerable Suscept laI ty Is discussed further in the asset -specific subsections, below. A key fm'tatim of hazard mitigation planning is that flood inundation areas for federally owned darns are typically not ova lable This prevents identification of many assets that are vulnerable to dam -failure hazards. A solution to this limitation is to reference the hard -copy maps that are ava hble within Emergency Action Plans associated with these dams and on file with the local emergency management offices. People Flooding caused by dam failure is among the most violent and destructive of hazard events. People are certainly susceptible to injury or death when exposed to dam inundation hazards. From a planning perspective, all populations exposed to dam failure hazards are considered vulnerable, but the elderly, people with disabilities, young children, and individuals that face challenges evacuating the inundation zone (individuals that do not am a vehide) are the most vulnerable. Fortunately, the population exposed to dam failure hazards is variable. The presence of people within dam inundation areas can be reduced in many ways, such as limiting development in high hazard areas. Also, providing advance warning of approaching dam failure hazards can he effective when the warning is received and successfully acted upon to evacuate the area. However, even if advance warning exists, any population that does not receive and act on that warning also remains vulnerable. Even when warnings are received and acted upon, the time to successfully evacuate may be brief and insufficient for vulnerable populations. People prevented from evacuating by blocked or otherwise inaccessible evacuation paths also remain vulnerable. Improving any of the above -mentioned factors will reduce the vulnerability of people to dam failure hazards. Aiding the evacuation of certain populations deserves special consideration, most notably the elderly, people with disabilities, young children, and individuals that do not own a vehicle. These issues are considered more thoroughly in Section 5, Mitigation Strategy. According to GIS analysis conducted for this vulnerability assessment there are an estimated 22,746 people residing in identified dam inundation zones throughout the Eastern Region. This number does not include people downstream of federally owned dams that do not release information on dam inundation zones. This estimate was derived by taking the number of residential parcels within the inundation zone and multiplying them by the average household size for each county per the U5. Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. The breakdown of these exposed populations per county andjurisdiction are shown in Table 4-11 below. Property The potentially destructive nature of dam failure hazards makes property that exists within the dam inundation area susceptible to damage and therefore potentially vulnerable. Low-lying areas are subject to additional flood hazards since they exist where dam waters would collect Table 4-11 summarizes the estimated number of improved parcels, building values, and people withininundation zones (private dams only) for each county in the Eastern Region Counties with the highest exposure of people and property include Yellowstone, Custer, and Carbon counties. Table 4-12 summarizes the estimated number of parcels, building values, and people within inundation zones for each Tribe in the Eastern Region. Table 4-11 Eastern Region Parcels at Risk to Overall Dam Inundation by County and Jurisdiction Mmana Eastern Payim Hazen Mion— Ran Huai Identfiatian and Risk Assn % County Ham73,275$457,747,587 07,695 $1,965,058 $4,472,753 29 59A70 S21,050.915 S50,610385 1.036 7c--Mid. 910,122 519,545.855 S54A55.977 585 e 783,"a S42929,156 $124,713,116 952 County 84,832 $82.742,566 S221,827398 1,D23 778.914 S145217,577 S400,996A91 2.560 i 47587 5255,949.474 $713,697-061 T353 Custer Cmn 564 $74246,037 W.024,649 $121270,686 1233 Tatd 3,859 SS31,993,624 $304974122 SB34967746 8,586 Fallon Baker 160 $765 7 S12321269 $35087076 377 FeRm County 5 S405p41 $251,441 $656A82 7 Total 185 S23,1701148 112572,709 S35,743.557 384 Gwrfdd Garfield County 7 $279,990 $139,995 S419,985 17 Total 7 $279.990 S139,995 S419-5 17 Golden Lavinia106 S9,412,B53 $41T7,639 $15,590A92 207 valley R ate 124 19347A21 _ 15.986.023 S15333A44 250 Gelder valley Cwnry 33 $3,223,648 S2,755,364 $5,979,012 29 Total 263 1219a3.922 S14919026 $36902948 486 M—Ishell Roundup 134 S7925167 $4,025.413 $11950580 273 Musselshell County 106 $5,923,568 $4,165.939 S10,089,507 1a5 Total 240 f13848,735 38,191,352 $22040081 458 Rikhlmd Total 5 $734,424 $509317 $1.243,741 B Rmebud Northem Cheyenne Indian Reservadon 57 S3,089,925 $1,756,522 S4.t416,747 214 Rosebud Caunly 131 $Ig719,734 S7,884,4T7 $18.604211 249 Total 193 $14,544.083 $10,150,616 $24,694,699 463 Sheridan Plen od 940 S121,121.067 S72A08.009 S193,129,076 1,939 Sheridan County 38 $IZ707,S65 $16.106,768 Vk814334 60 Total 978 S133,82B,633 SNJ14,776 $221,943A09 M99 Treasure Treasure Coun 1 S366,520 S366,520 $733A40 - Total 1 S366 20 $366 20 ST33 0 0 Wheatland Hadowtan 214 '14,033 69 $7,521986 $21555 55 491 Wheatland Cm 170 521,505215 $19.038,660 $40,543,875 287 Total 384 S35538,684 $26.560646 S 30 T78 YeBowstme BBBn s 1 73 S331,662,987 I S225615257 S557,278,244 3017 rarely, Jbadtttkim ,g ,I knproead Val-,; CampraValae Total Val- Par"Id", Table 4-12 Eastem Region Parcels at Risk m Dan Inundation by Tribe Crux Tribe 314 $27,051,775 1 S19085,857 $46,137.632 1,007 FortPeck Assirb.ine and Sim. - Tribe Northem Cheymnelndan 57 $3,089,925 $1,756822 $4.846,747 214 Res ,vadon Tatd 371 530,147,700 f20A42.679 $50,98437a 1,221 S—,xe County An —day No, MT DNRC WSP GIS Ana/rys Critical Fadtities and Lifelines A total dam failure can cause catastrophic impacts to areas downstream of the water body, including critical infrastructure. Any critical asset located under the dam in an inundation area would he susceptible to the impacts of a dam failure. Transportation routes arevulneable to dam inundation and have the potential to be washed out in flooding following dam failure incidents, creating isolation and emergency response issues. Those that are most vulnerable are those that are already in poor condition and would not be able to withstand a large water surge. Utilities such as overhead power lines, cable and phone lines could also be vulnerable. Loss of these utilities could create additional isolation issues for the inundation areas. Based on the critical facility inventory considered in the updating of this plan there are 352 critical facilities throughout the Eastern Region which lie within mapped dam inundation areas. These at -risk facilities are listed in Table 4-13 below by critical facility classification as based on the FEMA Lifeline categories. Table 4-13 Eaatam Region Critical Facilities at Risk to Dam Inundation by Jurisdiction and FEMA Lifeline lemur Us— Raylon Haan Mib,.n Ran Harare Wmtifiotim aW Nsk —es-1 County Jurbdktian a e 2 72 _ A G 5 MEMO ME= MEMO The wmy The economy, in the Eastern Region a both exposed and susceptible to dam failure. For example, a dam failure would likely cause the long-term lass of a reservoir. Reservoirs are often critical water sources for potable or irrigation water needs, support tourism and pmvide wildfife habitat The loss of potable water could directly cause businesses to dose, at least temporarily, and the loss of a reservoir could indirectly disrupt tourism Downstream flooding would cause additional indirect impacts of economic disruption. Historic and Cutturat Rena s Reservoirs themselves are often significant cultural and economic resources for tourism and recreation. A dam failure and subsequent loss of a reservoir would be potentially catastrophic to these resources. In addition, downstream flooding is also capable of damaging or destroying historic and cultural resources such as historic buildings, aquatic habitat or additional dams downstream. Specific historic resources have 777 Mamana Feriam Perim Heard Midgatbn Nan HwN Idmdfiutim an, gi4Axxesmem _ Monbiw Gstem Mgian Huard Aisp— Nan .,r 1d fcelion and Pis, Assessment not been identified, but historic buildings in the cities and tovms of Miles City, Ryegate, and Billings may have more exposure than other jurisdictions in the Region based an the overall numbers of developed parcels within inundation —as and concentration of assets and historic buildings in downtown areas. Nofneat Raounors Reservoirs held behind dams affect many ecological aspects of a river. Rivers often experience wide fluctuations in key aspens of aquatic habitat such as flow rate, lemperatum, and suspended sediment Bat below dams, rivers often experience relatively stable conditions with very little suspended sediment These conditions an provide ideal habitat for desirable species such as trout A dam failure can completely alter this arrangement Dam failure also can cause severe downstream flash flooding, depending on the magnitude of the failure. Loss of the water resource (mm dam failure could impair the supply of water for potable or irrigation water needs. Development Trends Rebzted to Hazards and Risk Specific areas experiencing growth and development below dams in Montana has not been assessed, but it's possible there has been development within inundatian zones, which are not as regulated w flood hazard areas. Development below dams an cause vulnerability to increase and have significant financial impact on dam owners. When new development occurs In the inundation area below an existing dam that previously lacked downstream hazards, the dam could be reclassified as 'high hazard'. High hazard dams are required to meet stringent requirements for design, construction, inspection, and maintenance. Bringing a dam up to high hazard design standards can be costly fora dam owner. Even for dams already classified as high hazard, additional downstream development an still have a financial impact Spillway design standards are based on potential for loss of life downstream. As the population atrisk increases, the spillway design standard increases. A dam that is ctrnently in compliance with state design standards can suddenly be out of compliance after a subdivision is built downstream. KA summi ry Dam failure is a hazard that presents an unlikely chance of occorence, but a potentially significant negative impact should a dam failure occur. Major impacts to downstream populations, property, infrastructure, and natural and cultural resources could occur. • The overall significance rating of dam failure for the eastern region is low in part due to low probability of ocoamence. • Dam failures, especially those of high hazard dams, could potentially result in people downstream aught in inundation area flooding with little to no waming. • Property and buildings located within the inundation area are vulnerable to damage or destruction in the event of a dam failure; counties with the highest exposure of people and property include Yellowstone, Cuter, Carbon Counties. Direct economic losses in terms of property damage, as well as indirect losses in terms of impeded tourism and loss of cultural or recreational resources like reservoirs, could result from dam failures. There is an estimated $3,066,823,398 in total property value located within inundation areas in the Eastern Region exclusive to privately owned high hazard dams. • Critical facilities and infrastructure, most notablyroads and bridges, located in the inundation zones are also vulnerable to damage or complete loss in the event of a dam failure. • Related hazards: flooding, earthquake, landslide Mmnna Earem Pasim Hoard Nix,adm Nan Nacard Idendfiadm and disk Auessmml Table 4.14 Ltisk Summary Table: Dam Failure Eastern Regfm Low 32 HHPDS edit In Me Eastern Region, en«tng mast but not all Jurisdictions Many [ides and variable land uses wish downstream of high hazard dams Many dam inundation area delineations a ayailawe and ascent of risk isentitled. Rig Hom Low Hardn, Lodge Grass There are five HHPDs n Big Horn County, including Yellowtail, W Baw Creek Tongue River Dam, Cab a Hm, Flood Control Da and Yellowtail ARerbay. Most areas at risk a. on the Crow Tribe reservation. Carbon Medium Bearcreek, Bridgen Joliet, There are four HHPDs in Carbon County, From1ser9, Red Lodge including Convey, Gilder Lake North, Deeession Detention Dam, and Glacier take South Dam. Carbon County has the third highest total value of exposed within ma dkesndatim areas Carter Low Ekalaka Them are m high hazard dams In Cart« Cain . Custer Med m Ismay, Miles City There are no high hazard dams in Custer County. There are high hazard dams upstream which do pox a threat to Custer County.The;nty has the a«cod highest total wlue exposed property within mapped kundatim areas, with most of this in Mites Ci . Craw Tribe Medium The 525-R tan Yellowtail Dam sits near the town of Fort Smith, upstream of the rvalim m the Bighorn River. Possibly attested areas along the Bighorn River include the town of St Xavim Danieb Low Scobey, Haxville There are no high hazard dams n Daniels Coun . D—on Low Richey. Glendive There is one HHPD In Dawson County caned the [' sfull Lake Dam. Felton Low Nevins, Baker There are two HHPDs in Fallon County, Including the Lippe m Baker Daand the Lower Baker Dam. Baker has more pe—is at risk than the canine tad areas Garfield Low Jordan Thereare no high hazard dams in Gaoleld Coun Golden Valley Low Ryegate,Lavna Thee are ..high heard dams in Golden Vallev Countv M,Cme Medum Circle The Missouri River fortes the northern bard« of MCCone Counl,. The rtoundng a world be swealy affected failureof Fort P«k Dam, which sRs on the upstream, western end of the [rimy MoisehhuB Lev _ Mehtone. Rounmup There is ere H14PD n W [ushhell County calhd W!,tone Detention Dain Ponder Rivr Meoum Broad's there — no )sill hurd dams h Pwnbv River[oun. Pnide Lon Terry Them are no high hazard dams in Prairie C-rov Richland Medm Fairview, Sidney Them b one HHPD in R'xhland County caned Ga.Ae Dam. Roosevelt Mad m Well Point Poplar, Bainville, Towns along the Mi mud River on the Culberson. Fmid southern border of the county could be affected by falm of Fort Peck Dam. These towns include Won Pont Poplar, and Cumerson. Rosebud Low Cohtrip, Forsyth There ale four HHPDs in Rosebud County. including ColsMp Evapondon Pond Dam, Cast[. Rock Reservoir Dam, Colstrip D'ivenkin Dam and Castle Rock Saddle Dam. Sheridan Md.. Plentywood. Medicine take, Then is one HHPD in Sheridan County Outlook Wastby called Box Elder Dam. Plentywood has higher esperam than the rest of the County. Stillwater Medium Columbus Them are four HHPDs in Stillmia County called Mystic lake Dam, Stinwatar Hander Taikngs Dam, Stillwater Nye Tailings Dam, andMolic Dike Treasure Low Hysham Them are no high Weard dams in Treasure County but the Town of Hysham would be impacted by dam incidents (overtopping) at the Yellowtail Dam and Afterbay Dam. Thee are also seven) critical facilities (ncludng bridges) exposed to dam failure hoards in Treason County in the towns of "ham, Meyer; and Sanders. See the Treasure County Annex for further information on Jul tional vadabirdy in dam failu..IniiialiTity. Valley Mecum Glasgow, Fort P-k. NesbuA On he Mhsoud Rive, Fort Peck 0 in holds Opheim up to 18 mDion acre-feet of water and mates Fort Peck take, whisk canes as re than half the southern border of Va Coca Wheatland Low HadoMa)udith Gap n There am B HHPDs In Wseatlmd County. Harlowton has more ex Wis.. Low Wismx Them am m HHPDs In Wbaux CmntV. Y•Bmnione Medf m Bidngs, Broadview, Laurel Them is one HHPD In Yellowstone County dkd Lakeside Dam. Yellowstone County has the higher total value of exposed propertywMiii ..ppd dam inundation Montana Fen- Peglm HaaN Mitlgafan Phn 1 mItlmdfiadm and Risk Assesvent es but toughy equal amounts n Bain and drunks[ rated areas 42.5 Drought Hazard/Pmb[.m Desuiption Drought is a condition of climatic dryness that is severe enough to reduce soil moisture and water below the minimum necessary for sustaining plant, animal, and human rife systems. Influencing factors include temperature pattems, precipitation patterns, agricultural and domestic water supply needs, and growth Lade of annual precipitation and poorwater comervation practices an result in drought conditions. Drought is a gradual phenomenon Although droughts are sometimes characterized as emergencies, they differ from typical emergency events. Most natural disasters, such as floods orwili land fires, occur relatively rapidly and afford little time for preparing for disaster response. Droughts occur slowly, over a multiyear period, and an take years before the consequences are marked. It is often not obvious or easy to quantify when a drought begins and ends. Droughts an be a short-term event over several months or a long-term event that lasts for years or even decades. Drought is a complex issue involving many factors —it occurs when a normal amount of moisture Is not available to satisfy an areas usual water-comuming activities. Drought an often be de(nedJegionally based on its effects: a M•tecesksgical draught is usually defined by a period of below average water supply. Agricultural drought occurs when there is an inadequate watersupply to meet the needs of the store's crops and other agricultural operations such as livestock • Hydrological drought is defined as deficiencies in surface and subsurfacewater supplies. It is generally asures ed m streamnow, snowpack, and as lake, reservoir, and groundwater levels. Soriwconomic drought occurs when a drought impacts healtikwell-being, and quarry offife, or when a drought starts to have an adverse economic impact on a region Drought impacts are wide -reaching and may be economii; environmental, and/or societal- The most significant impacts associated with drought in Montana are those related to water intensive activities such as agriculture, wildland fire protection, municipal usage, commerce, tourism recreation, and wildlife preservation. An ongoing draught may leave an area more pmne to beetle kill and associated wiHland fires. Previous; drought events in Montana have led to grasshopper infestations. Drought conditions an also cause soil to compact. increasing an areas susceptibility to flooding, and reduce vegetation cover, which exposes soil to wind and erosion. A reduction of electric power generation and water quality deterioration are also potential problems. Drought impacts increase with the length of a drought, as carry -oversupplies in reservoirs are depleted and water levels in groundwater basins decline. Much of the State was in a drought during the late 1980's. In response to this, and to assist with increasing awareness of and planning for drought in the future, the Govemo's Drought Advisory Committee was fomxd in 1991. This committee, comprised of state and federal water supply and moisture condition experts, meets monthly to evaluate conditions for each county in the State and supports watershed gmups and county drought committees by pmvidng planning support and information Water supply and moistum state maps are produced monthly from Febmary to October by the Committee unless above average moisture conditions are prevalent Manna Eastern Ra4an Hamra MiUgatlm W n Hared Id.tifirad. and Rick Arsevrrmt Mmun+E+stem Pe9vn Had Ml,iga,bn Mn Hvad Wmufioum and Fisk AssnsmeM G.Vrapl"MaMtaclad Droughts are often regional events, impacting multiple counties and states simultaneously. Therefore, as the climate of the planning area is contiguous, it is reasonable to assume that a drought will impact the entire planning region. Based an this information, the geographic extent rating for drought is extensive. Drought in the Wuted States is monitored by the National Integrated Drought Information System (141015). A major component of this portal is the U.S. Drought Monitor. The Drought Mc milor concept was developed jointly by the NDAA's Climate Prediction Center, the National Drought Mitigation Center, and the USDA's Joint Agricultural Weather Facility in the late 1990s as a process that synthesizes multiple indices, outlooks, and local impacts into an assessment thatbest represents current drought conditions. The outcome of each Drought Monitor is a consensus of federal, state, and academic scientists who are intimately familiar with the conditions in their respective regions. The rating criteria for drought and a snapshot of the most current drought conditions in Montana can be found in Figure 4-14. 'Papald•51 aadw Mannna E+nem.,I- Hand —,.6on Han Hurd Idmtifiadan+nd Hsk huecsmem Figure 4.14 Drought Rating Criteria and Status September 2022 in the State of Monte - my Df 20m-2.9 aouNt vnm.sw..-n..,..r sew e 3.0 W 3.9 taeemr i.0 to a.9 Evora»nJ • M4���� r0er leas 2-30 21 to 30 O.S...7 21,030 tltop th told 0.8le-12 Il to 2p 61a 10 Cato 10 1.1to �IS Cato 10 31e5 3.5 1.6. 1.9 3,05 .1.2 O,o2 -29 or'.es Oro_ U.S. Drought Monitor November 29, 2022 Montana aeperwnn,lrFewrwml e.wy o A� - Yea+ o boo env av v []ovw+rwlF �w[n,wosy+ �o1„m.�wy+ �arnse.raeya dsrez Va,am eym,r CMua au'.rw USDA droughtmonlimunl.edu Swne ui D,wgM Manila MmMa I uS Drought Mania, funledul Pa! 0— Between 2012 and 2021, there were 79 USDA disaster declarations due to drought in the Eastern Region. Table 4-15 provides a list of these events with impacted counties. Table 4-1S USDA Drought Disaster Declarations(2012.2021) 2012 S3317 Carter S3319 Carle, Powder River S3350 Big Horn, Carbon Powder River S33fi5 Big Hom, Carbom Carter, Custer FaAat Garfield, Golden Valky, Musselshell, Powder River. Pro" Rosebud Still ate, Treaty re. Yalowstone S3374 Caner Fallon 53391 Big Ham, Carbon, Carter,Custer, Falat Golden Valley, Musselshell Powder Aire, Rosebud StAwter Treasure, Wheatland Yelowotane S3416 Big Ham. Carter, Curter,Fallon. Garfield,MussetcheQ Powder River, Preid, Rosebud Tma me. Wibaux Wheatland. Yellowstone 53432 Cuter Garfeld Golden Valley,Mceone, Musselshell. Prsi' RacebudV ,Wheatland 53436 Sheridan S3437 Cu"" Dawson, Fallon, Gam Id McCune, Prairie. RichkncL Roosevelt, Rosebud Vafley. W b.. S3467 Richland Roosevelt Wbaux 2013 S350B B' Hom. Carbon, SL Powder River 53521 Bg Hom, Carbon, Golden Vdlry, Musselshell Powder Rive, Parebud StiDwate, Trawrq Yellowstone 53522 Carter Fallon 535M Sheridan 2014 S3804 I Fa Rkhkn Sh W '.x 2015 53959 Sheridan S3%0 Fa Rkhlan R 5 Wibaux S3%1 Fallon Wibaux 53972 CaMr, C.W Falo Gam PoderRiver Prairie, Rosebud 2D16 S39U B' Hom Carbon, Powder R'rrer 539W Carter Powder River S3999 Carter Custer, Fall— Powder River 54000 Carter Fallon 54002 Powder River S4035 Big HomCancer, Cutter Fallon. Powder River. Prairie, Rod,4 Wbaux S4036 Fallon 406 51 Golden V+ Whatknd S4066 Big Harry Carbon, Golden Valley, Powder River, Rosebud Sfl&ate, Trawre, Whead.d Yellowstone S40M Carbon S413B Fallon Wbaux 2017 -1B5 Curtin, Dankk Dawson, Gam Id McCaw, Pralda Rkhknd Roosevelt, Rosebud Sheridan, Va S4186 I Fall— Richland Roosevelt Sheridan, Wrbauc S4190 1 Caner Custer, Dawson, Fallon, McCorse Prairie• Richland Wrbaux S4191 I Richland Roosevelt Wit,.. Monona Eattem peyion HaraN Mltlga,un %an l4uN Idmdfu6. and Rltk Assnuan, S4193 eg Ham, Custer, Dawsc , Garfield, Gold.nV.My, MC -a, Musrdshek Powder River, Akhlan R Rorabu Treaty Va Wlatlan Wrbw YeDowstone S4195 Carter Cuff.Dow,—Fallon.Garfield McCort, Powder Rive, Pride, Rosebud Wbwx S419B Cartel S421D B' Hom, Carbon, Goldin Valley, Musselshell Rosebud Still.M., Treawre, Yellowstone S4211 u W S4214 B' Hom, Carter. Custer, F+Ilan. Powder R'Mer, Rosebud S4217 Big HomC+rbak Golden Valley, Musselshell Powder Rive, Rosebud Stigmte, Tmaur, Whew Yelbwstone 54219 Caner, Powder River S4221 Wheatland S4330 Fallon, Richland Roosevelt Sheridan. Wibaux 2D18 IS4432 Denkh, M.C-4 Rkhlnd, Roosevelt Shedd+ Valley 2019 S46C Sheridan 2020 S4146 01. H C.rbort Powder Ricer S4777 Big Hom, Carte, Custer, Powder River, Rosebud S4795 Powder River S4864 Dankk,M.C— Richland Roosrvek Sheridan, V+ S4B71 B 14—C+ Carter. Custer. Falldn Powder Noe it—lbud Treasure, YeBowstwu S4889 Custer, Rosaiud,Big Hom,Carter,Fallon. Garfield, Mustekhe4 Powder RHer, Prairie, Treaty Ye9owston. S4891 Carter Powder Rine S494B Fallon Rkhknd Roasevel Shedda Wibaux 54949 Shedd. S4950 Fallon 2021 SON B Ho Carbu Powder Rarer S4931 Carbon, Carter Powder R'Mer S4939 Falm Richland Roosevelt Sheridan. Whadand Wbovx S4960 Carter, Custer Daniels, Dawson, Fallon. Mdonb Prairie, Rkhknd R—ft Sheridan,Valiey, W beaux G+rfl" Powder RHer, Rosebud S4964 Cartejelon S4970 Gadield, Custe, McCone, Praidq Rosebud Valle, S4993 Golden VaOq•, Musselshell Prm'derRiver. Rosebud Big Han, Carter, Custer, Gam M Stilwa W, Treasu re, Yellowstone SS001 Golden Ve ,Wheatand. SS007 Carbon, Stillwater, Ewra, Yelowaone, Big Hon Golden Valley, Musselshell Rosebud Wheatland 55016 Wheatand SS022 Big Ha Powder Rive Rose-Tre.sum Yellowstone 55203 Fa Da Richland, R—IShedd+ Wbaux Figure 4-1S displays the temporal trend in USDA disaster declarations from drought byyen in the Eastern Region. While there is evident variability in Ore number of declarations from year to year, there has been a gradual increase in the number of declarations due to drought in the Eastern Regiat with the greatest number of dedarations occurring in 2017. Figure 4-16 displays the breakdown of dedaratiorts by county. In the Eastern Region. Powder River County has experienced the greatest number of USDA disaster declarations, followed by Fallon and Carter Counites. Pegs ld•L MmUna Easum Re9im Hmm Miuyrron Pan Hazard Idmri6ua'm and Risk -- Mmbna East•m Ilaglm Haanf Mitpamn Pan Hmrd ldanuf rim aM Risk Asessment Figure 4.15 USDA Drought Disaster Declarations by Year (2012-2021) 18 16 I4 e 12 a 10 0 s 6 B Z 4 2 VV 2012 2013 W14 3016 Nis 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Soarr.uSDA Fgun4-16 USDA Drought Disaster Oechmtionsby County(2012.2021) e ''0 'ass o' a rdp G 16 n 10 "so' e+� The 2021 Teton County Hazard Mitigation Plan and 2018 State of Montana Hazard Mitigation Plan provide details of drought history in the State of Montana: • 1917-1923: Rising wheat prices encouraged farmers to transform grasslands into farmland for wheat corn, and mw crops. This resulted insignificant losses of sail and overcamumption of water for crops. Mmtana Eanem Raglm Hmra Mltl9atlon Pan Huard Idandfiraum ar d IOsk Auassmmt • 1928-1939: The driest period in the historic record, the Palmer Hydrologic Draught Index (PHDI) showed the entire state was in a hydrologic deficit for over 10 years. Better conservation practices, such as strip cropping, helped to lessen the impacts of the worst water shortages. • Mid-1950t Montana faced a period of reduced rainfall in eastern and central portions of the state. By November of 1956, a total of 20 Montana counties had applied for federal drought assistance. 1961: By August of 1961, 24 counties had applied for federal draught disaster aid. Montana's State Crop and Livestock Reporting Service called it the worst drought since the 1930's. • 1966. The entire state was experiencing yet another episode of drought Although water shortages were not as great as in 1961, a study often weather recording stations across Montana showed all had recorded below normal precipitation amounts for a ten-month period. • 1977: In June, officials from Montana were working with others from Idaho, Washington, and Oregon on the Northwest Utility Coordination Committee to moderate potential hydroelectricity shortages. On June 23, GovemorJudge issued an energy supply alert and ordered a mandatory ten percent reduction in electricity use by state and local govemments. 1979-19811 By Octaber of 1980, estimates of 1980 federal disaster payments were five times those paid in 1979. Total drought related economic losses from Montana in 1980 were estimated to be $380 million (equivalent to $1.26 billion in 2021). Lange May storms in 1981 brought flooding to formerly parched areas. • 1984: By July, Montana was again experiencing water shortages and rationing schedules were put into effect Crop losses were estimated at $12-15 million. Numerous forest and range fires burned out of control across the state in %�ugust • 1985: AJI 56 counties received disaster declarations for drought Cattle herds were reduced by approximately one-third. The state's agriculture industry lost neady f3 billion in equity. 1999.2008: This period of dryness and hydrologic deficits mimicked the Dust Bowl years in every measurable factor besides duration. Area aquifers as well as municipal water supplies suffered severe water losses. • 2017. Northeastem Montana had record dry conditions for much of 2017, especially through August • 2021.2022 By December of 2021. every county in Montana was identified as experiencing some level of drought A third of the state was classified as -D4- or 'exceptional' dmught a designation the U.S. Department of Agriculture expects to occur in any one location just once every 50 to 100 years. Figure 4-17 displays data from the U.S. Drought Monitor for the State of Montana from 2000-2022. -DO' represents least severe drought conditions and -D4- is most severe. The chart shows peak draught conditions in the years 2002-2005, 2017, and 2021-2022 across the State. Figure 4-11 US Drought Monitor. State of Montana Drought Conditions (2000-2022) A,Jo CIMO01002ED3001 as.N.gtsu.n,wr al,m,u 6azrc US DrougMMonit Fmqur ty/Lfka(Ille- Df OOOIfrMO The likelihood of drought somewhere in the Eastem Region is highly likely based an the US Drought Monitor. The 2018 State of Montana Hazard Mitigation Plan also reported that despite variation in drought severity, drought losses are incurred every year in Montana. Figure 4-18 depicts annualized frequency of drought at a county level based on the NRL The mapping shows a trend towards increased likelihood in the soutl w stem portion of the Eastem Regkm, particularly in Big Horn, Carbaq Golden Valley, Musselshell, Stillwater, Wheatland, and Yellowstone Counties. Montana.-Reglm HaxaMMid,a rPan Hmro lamunuum and iusk ameaament Figure 4-113 Annualized Frequency of Drought Events by County Western Ea•t•m O__ ti s Map lry W1i, Data Saurte fEMA NatiorW Risk Indm, CBmats Ch-gas Cenaidar S.- Montana's future drought hazard is largely a story of how climate change will impact precipitation, compared to how it will impact evapotranspiration Evapotranspiration is sensitive to temperature and climate -change associated increases in temperature are fairly certain to increase transpiration for the foreseeable future. The more dynamic part of the drought story is how climate change will affect precipitation Changes in the seasonal distribution of precipitation in Montana are becoming evident The 2021 Montana Climate Change and Human Health Study documents summer precipitation has decreased sightly and is roughly offset by slightly increased spring and fall precipitation. This observation is consistent with observations of increasing drought in recent years and the early stages of anticipated changes due to climate change. Looking farther into the future, Figure 4-19 shows the pmjected change in monthly average precipitation for 2040-2069 relative to 1971-2000. During the spring, precipitation is expected to Increase in coming decades. The springtime increase in precipitation is likely to offset increases in evapotranspiration driven by increasing temperature. However, during summer months, precipitation is expected to remain relatively stable or continue to decline slightly, This stable or slightly decreasing precipitation, combined with higher evapotranspiration rates due to increasing temperatures, can reasonably be anticipated to increase the drought hazard during summer months. Fall and winter months are less certain but are more likely to resemble the springtime pattern described above. Mmtana Eastern Pagfm Hoard Mitq — Mn Haxard Idmufiudon and Nsk Aneasmmt Monafu Fxsmm 9a9f9n HaaN Mitigation plan Hoard tdmtlfiudonaM Wsk Rnorment 7Wd' on.., Drought The magnitude of climate change impact on drought especially during the summer, is significant and worthy of attention, but not necessarily catastrophic The Fifth National Climate Assessment confirms that drought is increasing in Montana, and is projected under maferaw climate change scenarios to be 10% more frequent by 2050, and 20%by 21G0. Figur• 4.19 p jetted Charge in Mont— Monthly precipitation Change in Monthly Precipitation (in.) RCP 4.5 (2040-2069) (A) li J(r-.• 10 N Cnm Y sweat +rr`•� 5 OCrbN 0 Ce.-:•M -5 S Exs -10 H Emt lemm i1i Changin Monthly Precipitation (in.) RCP 8.5 (2040-2069) (B) R9ure aourte Montana plmate Uarge aM Murton H<ahh rryM.1021. Rzl?aS tfi9uaN Is dnvibed n Me'whixaEm akvnodo' and as 85lfigun al is dasrdtHd as the upper -bound amisdm akruda Climate science has advanced far in recent years but limitations in am understanding of climate dtange remain, especially at projecting changes at small spatial scales. Scientifically defensible projections do not yet exist to differentiate the effects of dimate change on the drought hazard in eachjurisdiction within the Eastern Region. Fa example, torten[ scientific information indicates exposure to summertime drought is likely to get worse throughout the region. However, there is virtually no scientific information regarding if i is Mmtona Fastam pe91m Hoard Mid9atlm Plan Huard Idmdfiadm and lesk Nsnvmmt or how drought will get worse in one part of the Eastern Region relative to another part In summary, the intemities of droughts will increase because of incensed summer temperatures and deceased overall summer precipitation. Droughts are also projected to incense in frequency and have a longer duration due to shifts in seasonal precipitation patterns, inducting cider summers and leis precipitation falling as snow in early spring. Susceptibility to drought may also shill homjtaisdictian tgjurisdiction in ways that are difficult to predict and may or may net be related to climate charge. For example, consider a scenario where deteriorating infrastructure degrades the reliability of irrigation water supply in a specific jurisdiction. Susceptibility to drought would incense in the affected jurisdiction more than in otllers. Whatever the cause of incense susceptibility to drought climate change will amplify the consequence of the change. Future updates to this plan should revisit the topic of future drought condition and susceptibility as scientific knowledge progresses and note any trends that merge over time. Pot+rrCal Magrsilud• rsnd S•vviry The magnitude of a droughts impact is directly related to the swedry and length of the drought The severity of a drought depends on carter availability and moisture deficiency, the time period, and the size and location of the affected area. The longer the drought persists and the larger the area effected, the more severe the potential impacts. Droughts can he ashort-tens ¢rent over several months or along -term went that lasts for years or wen decades. Table 4-16 summarizes the historically observed impacts by category for drought in California. Table 4.16 Hirtoricalty observed Impacts by Drought Monitor Category 11 DO -Abnormally Dry •Soil is dry, irtigaticn derrvery begins early Dryiand cop germination is stunted _Active fire season begins Dryiand pasture growth is stunted; producers; glue supplements feed to rattle DI -Moderate Drought . Landscaping and gardens need irrigation earlier, wildlife patterns begin N change Stock ponds and cooks are lower than usual • Grazing land is inadequate , il Fire season is longer, with high bum intensity, dry fuel; and large fire spatial extent . Trees are stressed; plants increase reproductive mechanisms; wildlife diseases inceease . Livestock need expensive supplemental feed; cable and horses are sold; little pasture roman; (colt tree: bud early, producers begin irrigating in the winter • Fro season lasts year -mood; fires scar in typically wet parts of the State; hum ban are implemented Water is inadequate for agriculture, wildlife, and urban needs; rrswoirs are extremely low, hydropower's restricted kh falbw, ordsards are removed: vegetable yieldse law, arvest is small n is very mstly, number of fires and area burred aree11 ue and rebcatien begins;pine beetle infestation occurs; ortaGry is high; wetlands dry up; survival of native plants als is brc fewer vdldflowers bloom; wildlife death is ead; algae blooms appear Source. U.i Drougnt Drought impacts are far-reaching and may be emnomir: environmental and/or societal; therefore, the potential magnitude and severity is ranked as critical. The most significant impac[s associated with drought in the Eastern Region are those related to water -intensive activities such as agriculture, wildfire protection, municipal usage, and wildlife preservation. A reduction of electric power generation and deterioration of waterqualiry are also potential problems, as seen in the history of droughts in Montana Droughtcorditi9ns can also rouse sail to compact and not absorb water welt potentially making an area more susceptible to Flooding. Indirect effects include those impacts that ripple out from the direct effect and include reduced business and income for local retailers, incensed credit risk for financial institutions, capita shortfalls, loss of tax rwenues and reduction in gwemment services, unemployment and Dutmgretian. Figure 4-20 displays the number of impacts from drought in the Eastern Region by impact type and county hosed an the Drought Impact Reporter. Fqun azo Dr•uphl lmp+N by fnunry and lmput Typo IED00.2a217 zs Ai ,ode � a' � �'"d'' �'p,d� ,�`�'�� P,���,,••�°',�+'� � � •aplwimo nm ewe wa vnara aa:�a,-.n.,,on. •SaderyaputrkHwq •iwdcn a0.ewtim •xa�.5,adyaWa:ry sw:m. onuyrs.p.anpemr.ta.n ymr 0 wwwwwom W�mwwq kh falbw, ordsards are removed: vegetable yieldse law, arvest is small n is very mstly, number of fires and area burred aree11 ue and rebcatien begins;pine beetle infestation occurs; ortaGry is high; wetlands dry up; survival of native plants als is brc fewer vdldflowers bloom; wildlife death is ead; algae blooms appear Source. U.i Drougnt Drought impacts are far-reaching and may be emnomir: environmental and/or societal; therefore, the potential magnitude and severity is ranked as critical. The most significant impac[s associated with drought in the Eastern Region are those related to water -intensive activities such as agriculture, wildfire protection, municipal usage, and wildlife preservation. A reduction of electric power generation and deterioration of waterqualiry are also potential problems, as seen in the history of droughts in Montana Droughtcorditi9ns can also rouse sail to compact and not absorb water welt potentially making an area more susceptible to Flooding. Indirect effects include those impacts that ripple out from the direct effect and include reduced business and income for local retailers, incensed credit risk for financial institutions, capita shortfalls, loss of tax rwenues and reduction in gwemment services, unemployment and Dutmgretian. Figure 4-20 displays the number of impacts from drought in the Eastern Region by impact type and county hosed an the Drought Impact Reporter. Fqun azo Dr•uphl lmp+N by fnunry and lmput Typo IED00.2a217 zs Ai ,ode � a' � �'"d'' �'p,d� ,�`�'�� P,���,,••�°',�+'� � � •aplwimo nm ewe wa vnara aa:�a,-.n.,,on. •SaderyaputrkHwq •iwdcn a0.ewtim •xa�.5,adyaWa:ry sw:m. onuyrs.p.anpemr.ta.n ymr 0 wwwwwom W�mwwq Montana Eastem Pegion Hamm Kt,, on plan Huard Idmtifirauzn and NA Anasanmt Montana Fxstam Regbn Hamm Mitigation Plan F4mm Is.0.6- aM Nsk —- Vi irns"Ity Aseseranwlt The drought Vulncmbifiy Assessment identifies, or at least dkcusses, assets that are both likely to be exposed to drought and are susceptible to damage from that exposu n, 1. this caveat assets are (1) peopfe, (2) proper./, (3) .ideal faflities and lifelines, (4) the economy, (5) hbtaic and .1orral rewurces, and (6) natural m-aam. Up—m indmves imeracting-with drought hoards, and likely to be exposed indicates a presence in areas deemed to be especiahy Lkehy to experience drought hazards. Susceptible indicates a strong likelihood of damage from exposure to drought hazards and is described in greater detail in Section 421, subsection tided Vufnerobility&—cot. Finally, vulnerability under future conditions is considered as it relates to bath climate change and development. The high -hazard zone for drought extends throughout the Eastern Region of Montana Variability in the hazard severity exists from drought to draught but over time all parts of the Eastern Region are exposed to severe drought conditions. Susceptibility to drought is variable throughout the Eastern Region and is discussed further in the asset -specific subsections, below. The role of climate change in future vulnerability to drought is discussed above in the section tided, Climate Change Considerations, while the effect of future development is considered below in the section tided Development Trends Related to Homrsds and Risk A key limitation of hazard mitigation planning is that most drought impacts other than to the agricultural sector are indirect This complicates the evaluation of assets that are vulnerable to drought hazards. Figure 4-21 shows the NRI risk index rating for drought in Montana counties The risk index calculation considers the expected annual losses from drought social wlneability, and community resilience in eadh county. Counties in the Eastern Region have a vide range of risk varying from very law, to refotivefy high As shown in the figure, Big Ham County has a relatively high -risk rating to drought whereas the counties of McCone, Damon, and Richland have very flaw risk rating. p+g•I� Monona Eanam aegim Hamm Mitigation Pnn Wzam lamefi a ion and W. Assmnem Figure 4.21 NRI Risk Index Rating far Drought Wettain Central Ea.teen IT - 1-1 f -- i - ) - �r1�i�1Q��� �' MON-4 �wa„s.wste, say. is w.-.versa,•- �• waaimco�ce.a�. am:u �J wnta. Map b/ cop, 0au Source: R.. Nationzl Risk Index httpr//nasudcfama.gw/nNdefamtimng-dsk P-PI. The historical and potential impacts of drought on populations include agricultural sector job loss, ecandary economic losses to local businesses and public recreational resources, increased cast to local and state gavemmernt for large-scale water acquisition and delivery, and water rationing and water wells running dry for individuals and families. As drought is often accompanied by prolonged periods of extreme heat negative health impacts such as dehydration can also occur, where children and elderly are most susceptible. Other public health issues can include impaired drinking water quality, increased incidence of mosquito -berme illness, increased wildlife -human confrontations, and respiratory complications due to defined air quality In times of drought Fanners are likely to experience economic losses due to drought The Montana Govemors Drought Report of May 2004 referenced the economic and societal effects of drought "The states biggest drought story remains the deepening sado-economic drought The drought threatens to change the very fabric of Montana's marl communities and landscape. It is the final straw, that can bankrupt4e and 5° generation fanners and ranchers, placing the birthright of descendants of pio6eer families on the auction block And like the changing vistas, many of the well -established County agri-businesses are disappearing forever, along with other main street institutiam." Exposure to draught occurs similarly across the Eastem Region. The vulnerability of people to that exposure is variable and is what drives the variability in drought impacts described in the opening paragraph of this subsection. Relationships between drought exposure, susceptibility, and impact are generally consistent throughout the planning area. For example, rain -fed agriculture is susceptible to the effects of drought wherever it occurs in the Eastern Region and when crops fail jobs are lost in a similar fashion across the Eastern Region. Individual annexes discuss drought vulnembil;d s that are particularly important at the jurisdiction -level. Direct structural damage from drought is rare, though it can happen. Drought can affect if shrinking and swelling cycles and can result in mckud foundations and infrastructure damage. Droughts can also have significant impacts on landscapes, which could cause a financial burden to property owners. There is a greater threat of structure damage in a drought -affected area due to the secondary impacts of drought For example, drought increases the risk of wildfire and may create water shortages that inhibit adequate fire response. Additionally, heavy rains after prolonged drought conditmns can rewlt in significant fiooding, which can damage property. CnNcal Facilities end [l/eWex Water systems are the most susceptible to drought As shown in Figure 4-20 above, nearly half the counties in the Eastem Region have experienced impacts to water supply and quality due to drought Additionally, hydroelectric power is susceptible to being reduced during periods of drought Drought -caused reduction of biahsel wedstock, can cause energy conservation mandates. Most critical facility infrastructure is more likely to experience losses due to the secondary hazards caused by drought such as wildfire and flooding. Exposure to drought occurs similarly across the Eastem Region, especially in the long-term Vulnerability, of critical facilities and lifelines follows the pattern of susceptibility described above. In other words, everything is exposed to drought critical facilities and lifelines that are susceptible to damage are wlnerable. The general pattern of exposure, susceptibility, and vulnerability of critical facilities and lifelines to that exposure typically holds true for each participatingjurisdiction. Some variability is discussed further in thejurisdiction- specific annexes - Economy Economic impact will be largely associated with industries that use water or depend on water for their business. For example, landscaping businesses were affected in the droughts of the past as the demand for service significantly declined because landscaping was not watered. Additionally, drought can exacerbate the risk of wildfires and flooding, increase the cost of municipal water usage, and deplete water resources used for recreation, all of which may impact the local economy. Agricultural industries will be impacted if water usage is restricted for irrigation. The Risk Management Agency (RMA) reported thatfi um 2007-2021 $575,895,26630 was lost as indemnity payments to farmers due to lost craps from drought in the Eastern Region, primarily in Daniels, McCune, Roosevelt Sheridan, and Valley counties. Figure 4-22 displays indemnity payments by county from 2007-2021. Montana Eas:a.� 0.zy�.on Hance M'i t.ga:ion Dian Hiram Iden;iicaion and a:k Assessment Figure 4.22 Crop Indemnity Lasses due to Drought by County 2007-2021 szm,00acao szoo,ogo,oao - --- — Seo.00000a — — —---- S40000000 F r `� t> o$�o'`Ya a�'a* °�'�y1a�s''Pork ytd uis Pv Sautcc Nsk1M,uge, mi Ageng1RMq.rnunbymP , Exposure to droughtoccurs similarly across the Eastern Region. The pattem of susceptibilityof the economy to that exposure that is described above is com'atentwithin each participatingjurisdctiork unless specified otherwise in the jurisdiction -specific annexes. For example, wine counties are more or less dependent on rain -fed agriculture, but the pattern is consistent that as dependence on min -fed agriculture increases, wlnerabilutyto drought increases. Pattems of vulnembifityto secondary impacts also follow similar patters throughout the region. Figure 4-23 illustrates the NR1 ratings for Expected Annual Loss (EAy due to drought for Montana counties. Most counties in the Region have a relatively moderate to relatively low rating; none have a high or very high -risk EAL rating. The EAL calculation provides an account of direct impacts to agriculture using agricultural value exposed to drought annualized frequency for dmught and historical direct loss to agricultural for drought The EAL rating is thus heavily based on direct agricultural impacts. Manuna E.aem Pegim Hared MiBgaaon Ran MonWu Easum Ra91on Harrd Mitigation Pon Wzard Idrroficadm and Gxk Assesvnmt Ilv.tl MandfirAdm+M Risk Axsessmeni Figure 4.23 NRI Drought Expected Annual Loss Rating Y/e.tam Central Easter Bey 'f DY. �- o 3— C re...ay.rraw. RH rraa..n um.,au L.'. rw.,.ara. � rrai�c•.�a. awn [_wow Map q VhP, Dau Sovrte rEMA Naa'and Gsk MdeA Historic and Cultural Resources Historic and cultural resources are susceptible to drought because of the longstanding, multi -generational farms that exist in the Easter Region. Past droughts have threatened to bankrupt farmers and ranchers and alter the farming tradition in the State. This patter holds true within each participating jurisdiction, unless specified otherwise in the jurisdiction -specific annexes. Namrd Resources Susceptibility of natural resources to drought is most commonly associated with plants, animals, and wildlife habitat and air and water quality, forest and range fires; degradation of landscape quality, loss of biodiversity, and soil erosion. Some of the effects are short-term and conditions quiddy return to normal following the end of the drought Other environmental effects linger for some time or may even become permanent Wildlife habitat for example, may be degraded through the loss of wetlands, lakes, and vegetation. However, many species will eventually recover from this temporary aberration and may even depend on it The degradation of landscape quality, including increased soil erosiom may lead to a more Permanent loss of biological productivity, soil loss during the dust bowl years is a notable example. Although environmental losses are difficult to quantify, growing public awareness and concern for environmental quality has forced public officials to focus greater attention and resources on these effects. Exposure to drought occurs similarly across the Eastern Region. Vulnerability exists where natural resources are susceptible to drought hazards. The patter of susceptibility of natural resources to that exposure that is described above is consistent within each participating jurisdiction, unless specified otherwise in the jurisdictionspecific annexes. can. High Ekd b Urge amount of USDA drought ducymdons Cussr Idadm lunar, Miles City Marry drought import rep —on -hum Cmw Tribe High Wan a; Crew T6b, TPT noted this esahhhet.dm am. Donets M. m Scahey. Flavile Hiyhw!wPndemnihy losses due to d Oawson m MediuGlendve Richey, None Fallon High Pkvna, Baker Large number of USDA drought d.1,""ns. High annualaed frequenry d drought H'gh crop indemni leases due to dmuoht G.fkId Medum Jordan None. High cmpindemnity losses due W doss ht Gulden Va9ey Mecum Ryegata, L.vna n Medium to high a nuaf ed 1 of dross t M'Cone High Circle Higherwpndemn'rty losses de to drou ht Mussehhel Med m Mektane, Ramdrp ,ad.. to high a nuaf ed hryu.-y d drought. High crop indemn' losses due m dross t Powder River High Br-,k,, Hashed themast USDAdrought dec4n[ions in the E.Awn Prairie High Terry None Richland High Fairview Sdn None Roosevelt Mecum Wolf Point Poplar, Bainvile, Hgh.crop indemnity lenses de Culberson, Frod to dross ht Rosebud Medum Coktdp, Forsyth None. High crop indemnity losses dawshou ht Sheridan High Pkntywood Medicine lake, Dutlaak Higher crop nm den'M losses due W to dross he Stillwater Mad m Columbus Hgh amualued hepraray of drou t Treasure MediumHysham High crop indemnity losses due to dross ht Valley Medm Glasgow, Fort Peck Nashua Ophexn Hghercmp indemnity losses due to drop kwbau. Merriam wibaux Very low expected annual lass due todew ht Yellowstone High Billings, Broadview, Laurel Hgh amivalkd fmquencv of drou t 42-6 EaMcitselm 14-41Problam DwiPfian An earthquake is the vibration of the earth's surface following a release of energy in the earth's mat This energy can be generated by a volcanic eruption or by the sudden dislocation of the mat which k the cause of most destructive earthquakes. The crust may fast bend and then, when the stress exceeds the strength Manum Eastern Paglen Hand Mid,.Wn Ran H.ad Idmtifratim and Gale Aununm[ Monona Faaem R•91on Haab Midptbn Ran Ward Mandfiudm and Gst Asexanent Develop —rot Tiered. Related to Hazards and Risk of the rocks, break and snap to a new position. In the process of breaking, vibrations called 'seismic waver The effect of development an vulnerability to drought is a result of either changing the assets that are are generated. These waves travel outward from the source of the earthquake at varying speeds. exposed to drought or by changing the susceptibility of assets to drought Neither of these factors were Earthquakes can last from a few seconds to over five minutes; they may also occur as a series of tremors cause for concern among plan participants. in addition, the Montana Department of Envionmental quality over several days. The actual movement of the ground in an earthquake is seldom the direct cause of injury (DEQ) is responsible for monitoring and regulating public water systems and they consider the impact of ordeath; osualtiesgenerally result from failing objects and debris. Disruption aFcommunications, electrical future development with respect to drought to be low. power supplies and gas, sewer, and water lines should be expected. Earthquakes may bigger fires, dam Additionally, the Govemoes Drought Advisory Committee was established by an act of the Montana State failures, landslides, or releases of hazardous mated al, compounding their disastrous effects. Legislature in 1991 following the drought years of the late 1980s, including the highly publicized Earthquakes east of the Roily Mountains are generally less frequent than in the western United States and Yellowstone National Park wildfire year of 1988. The rationale behind the initiative to create a state drought are typically fete over a much broader region Most of North America east of the Rocky Mount ins has advisory committee was that if state, local, and federal officials who monitor water supply and moisture - infrequent earthquakes, cued the region from the Rockies to the Atlantic Ocean can gar years without an conditions on be brought together on regular basis, and ahead of the seasons when impacts cue most earthquake large enough to be felt The earthquakes that do occur in this region are typically small and likely to occur to Montana's economy and natural resources, advance measures could be taken to lessen occur at irregular intervals. the degree of those impacts. exi g While development is generally not a significant concern, variability tab exists throughout the p g y g ty inevitably Earthquakes tend W reoccur along faults, which are zones of weakness in the crust Even if a fault zone has isolated dfuc annexes address these relatively isolated concerns regaling planning area. The jueisdictiyr recently experienced an earthquake, there is no guarantee that all the stress has been relieved. Another to dr development and wineubiliry to drought hauls, earthquake could still occur. Thousands of faults have been mapped in Montana, but scientists think only about 95 of these faults have been active in the past 1.6 million years (the quaternary Period). Although it flint Sunmery has been over six decades since the last destructive earthquake in Montana, small earthquakes are Gammon Overall, drought is censidered to be overall high significance for the Region. Variations in risk byjurisdiction in the region, occurring at an average rate of 4-S earthquakes per day according to the Great Montana arc summarized in the table below, as well as key issues from the vulnerability assessment Shake Out Montana Department of Transportation, and National Earthquake Information Center. Scientists continue to study faults in Montana to determine future earthquake potential. • F f drought is rated as hi 6k because the Easter Region experiences agricultural Frequency a g highly Dr 9 asPe^ a9 losses from drought every yea and the US Drought Monitor indicates a high frequency of drought A' mat' earthquake is defined as an uake classified as a m nitude 8 or r n the Richter Scale. 9 q anyearthquake ag large o conditions. Montana has not experienced a great earthquake in recorded history. A great earthquake is not likely in • Due to historic economic losses from drought in the Eattem Region, magnitude of drought is ranked Montana, but a major earthquake (magnitude 7A-79) occurred near Hebgen Lake in 1959 and dozens of as uxiti.L active faults have generated magnitude 65-75 earthquakes during recent geologic time. • Drought like other climate hazards, occurs on a regional scale and ran impact every county in the Uquefacdon is the process by which water -saturated sediment temporarily loses strength due to strong Easter Region; therefore, geographic extent is rated as extensive. ground shaking and acts as a fluid. Buildings and road foundations may lose bad -bearing strength and • Drought impacts to people include public health issues such as impaired drinking water quality, cause major damage if liquefaction occurs beneath them The increased water pressure that accompanies increased incidence of mosquito -borne illness, increased wildlife -human confrontations, and liquefaction can also cause landslides and dam failum respiratory compfications because of declined air quality in times of drought • Most common impacts to property from drought are damage from secondary hazards such as flooding Seismic events may lead to landslides, uneven ground settling, flooding, and damage to homes, dams, and wildfire. However, direct impacts from drought such as structural damage resulting from lack of levees, buildings, power and telephone lines, mads, tunnels, and railways. Broken natural gas lines may also moisture in the soil, do occur. ignite fires as a cascading haul. • Significant economic impacts are likely to result from drought from direct damages to caps and Geognpf"/yea AN--Wd livestock as well as indirect economic losses from business dismptiona. The geographic extent of earthquakes in the planning area is significant All of the Easter Region could Water systems we at significant risk to drought as are energy systems that depend on biofuels or - be impacted by earthquakes, but the greatest potential for damaging quakes is in the very southwestem hydropower. • Related Hazards: Wildfire, Flooding, Severe Summer Weather portion of the Region Montana is one of the most seismically active states in the United Stites accorcring to the USGS. There is a Table 4-17 Risk Surnm•ry Tebl•: Draught belt of seismicity known as the Intermountain Seismic Belt which extends through westem Montana. This Intermountain Seismic Belt ranges fmm the Flathead Lake region in the northwest comer of the state to the Yellowstone National Park region. Since 1925, the state has experienced five shocks that reached intensity 'as—R 'on HI h Vill or greater (Modified Menulru Sole). During the same interval, hundreds of less severe tremors were felt Big Ham High Hardin, Lodge Grass High a rualzed frequencyof within the state. dross Montana s earthquake activity is concentrated mostly in the mountainous westem third of the state, which Carbon High Bearcreek, Bridger, Jdiet Fmmber% High a nuaf ed frequency of Red l dross lies within the Intermountain Seismic Belt and is relatively far from the Eastem Regan when compared to the Central and especially the Wester Region, see Figure 4-24 below. However, large seismic events MmUna Eattam Pagim Hanrtl Mitlgatlon %an w:ara Iasmusranm.na cast asnm,sm centered in the Central and Western Regions may still cause impacts in the Eastern Region. As shown in Figure 4-25 below, the Eortern Region has a low to moderato liquefaction susceptibility in gen—L No area in the Eastern Region hen a high liquefaction susceptibility. Central Easte Raglon Regb �` a cart a t¢ _ Mmtaiu Eanam Ragbn Hamra Mitigatbn Mn N+ura Mannfivam and neak Annsment Past Ocoaran cea; As mentioned previously, Montana's earthquake activity occurs primarily in the Westem third of the state. In the Eastern Region, although earthquake events happen less frequently, there have been a few recorded earthquakes that are relatively bigger, in the 4-5.6 magnitude range. As mentioned in the 2018 Montana SHMP, one significant earthquake occurred in Northeast Montana on May 16, 1909, with a magnitude of S.S. Most of thse rest of the recorded earthquakes are relatively smaller, in the magnitude 1 to 3 range. These types of earthquakes very rarely cause any structural damage or injuries. As mentioned above, earthquake events tend to occur in the western part of the state more frequently, and numemus earthquakes in the western part of the state have been felt in the Eastern Region. A map of recorded earthquakes is presented in Figure 4-26 below based an online mapping tool developed by the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology (htrosd/mbma.mtech.eau/maooer/maooeraso7view=Ouakes&1 Figure 4.26 Statewide Map of Earthquake Epicenters, 1982-2022 I r— Sourta: Mmtaru Bureau of Minn anti Gedogy(b¢prI/mbmgmnrhedu/mapper/mapparup'friw=purtarl4 Frequwnry/Ulialihwod of Occurtarsce The frequency of earthquakes in the Eastern Region is ranked as likely, but damaging events are more occasional (between 1 and 10 percent chance of occurrence in the next year or has a recurrence interval of 11 to 100 years). Earthquakes will continue to occur in Montana; however, the precise time, location, and magnitude of future events cannotbe predicted. As discussed above, earthquake hazard areas in Montana are concentrated in the western portion of the state, which is part of the Intermountain Seismic Belt The USGS Issues National Seismic Harard Maps with updates approximately every five years. These maps provide various acceleration and probabilities for time periods. Figure 4-27 below is from the most recent USGS models for the contiguous U.S, showing peak ground accelerations having a 2 percent probability of being exceeded in 50 years, fora firm mrk site. The models are based on seismicity and fault -slip rates and rake into account the frequency of earthquakes of various magnitudes. Until recently, the 500-year map was often used for planning purposes for average structures and was the basis of the most cunent Uniform hgel47a Montana Essam pegiw WON Mitlgatlon Ran Ites,d Idmtifiutim and NA M—anmt M-.- Us— Region Ward Mloytion Pon Weed Wmfifioton ale Risk AM —. Building Cade. The new International Building Code, however, uses a 2,500-year map as the basis far bulls ing design. Figure 4-ZT USGS Long -Term Naticonal Seismic Hazard Map MUSGS a.,..a.....ry+•e Sa seusaS Iflplroal hAzaN L—� lneM sued Impacts of global climate change on earthquake hazards are not anticipated to occur and unknown. As mentioned in the 2023 State Muld-Hazard Mitigation Plan, some scientists say glaciers could induce tectonic activity. For example, as ice melts and water runs off, tremendous amounts of weight are shifted on the -th's cost As newly freed crust returns to its original, pre- glacier shape, it could cause seismic plates to slip and stimulate volcanic activity, according to research into prehistoric earthquakes and volcanic activity. NASA and USGS scientists found that retreating glaciers in southern Alaska may be opening the way for future earthquakes (NASA 2004). potential Magnitude send Savwfq The expected magnitude of earthquakes in the Eastern Region 6 limited. Earthquakes can cause structural damage, injury, and loss of life, as well as damage to infrastructure networks, such as water, power, communication, and transportation lines. Damage and loss of rife an be particularly devastating in communities where buildings were not designed to withstand seismic farces (e.g, historic structures). Other damage -causing effects of earthquakes include surface rupture, fissuring, settlement and permanent horizontal and vertical shifting of the ground. Secondary impacts an include landslides, rack falls, liquefaction, fires, dam failure, and hazardous materials (HA2MAT) incidents. In simplistic terms, the severity of an earthquake event an be measured in One following teens t 4A-4.9 N to A Ncid-bla sh.kk,R of indoor objects and ratting naves; to to ISK peryar felt by mast pa:plu in the affnted are" slightly felt wtiN" ner notom root dam SD-S.9 Vl tovill Can c m damage of varlmhg s -cry m goody 1Kta 1,SW pnryear bulling,,-. at most, cone to sfght damage to aonrovasd 9 other L I s. Felt 6.0-6.9 VR..x Damage to o mo"i number of well-built structures in 100 to 150 peryear popuWted area; earthquake redstam swewrervwe s xu with aght to —&-to damage poorly designed structures receme moderate la severe damag" fek in wide up to hundreds of ang o0cilometers from the imiantimstran;to violent shakin ln rcenterarea. 7A-7B VIII< causes damage to mint bufkrngs, some to wrialh or 10 to 20 peryar completely collapse or m damag" we%- designed stmcwues are ikey to—&. damag" fdt.cress great ds,an,- with major damage mostly limited to 250 km from enter. 8089 VIII< Major damage to builfings, smuctim" likely to be One per year deswyed; wi%cause moderate to heavy damage m sWrdy reanhquake-res'' uwtbuildng;damaginglnlargearea; felt in -rem W 9A and VIII< Atgrnarlotaldeswctim-smmdamageorcaiap,,W Oneperl0.50yars Greater a9Wildg;huwdamageandshakingextendsto,f, unit location; permanent changes in ground topography. swore uwst ruxuass warm 1m9Om rrex V"I""bl6ay weo Annnt The earthquake VufnembiWy Assessment identifies, or at least discusses, assets that are both likely to be exposed to earthquake and are susceptible to damage from that exposure In this context assets are (1) people, 2) property, (3) critical facilities and lifelines, (4) the economy, (5) historic and cultural resources, and (6) natural resources. Exposure indicates interacting with earthquake hazards, and likely to be exposed indicates a presence in areas deemed It, be especially likely to experience earthquake hazards. Susceptible indicates a strong likerihood of damage from exposure to earthquake hazards end is described in greater detail in Section 421, subsection titled Vulnwbiliry Assessment. Finally, vulnerability under future conditions is considered as itrelates to both climate change and development Numerous factors contribute to determining areas ofvulnerability such as historical earthquake mence, proximity to faults, soil characteristics, building construction, and population density. Earthquake vulnerability data was generated during the 2022 planning process using a Level 1 Houses-MH analysis for the Eestem Region. Hazus-MH estimates the intensity of the ground shaking, the number of buildings damaged, the number of casualties, the damage to transportation systems and utilities, the number of people displaced from their homes, and the estimated cast of repair and dean up. Details specific to the HAZUS analysis for each county are provided in each county's respective anne. The HAZUS analysis also incorporates information on what assets are susceptible to earthquake damage and provides information on earthquake vulnerability. The results of the HAZUS analysis are discussed further in the asset -specific subsections, below. .�Ptgel4.7s y -1 ri)a MOeana Exmm.gim HaON M1dgatbn Ran WON Id— fl— and Pick -- How hard did the ground shake? • How did the ground move (horizontally or verdcally)? • How stable was the wit? What is the fragility of the built environment in the area of impact? Earthquakes are typically classified in one of two ways By the amount of energy released, measured as magnitude; or by the impact on people and structures, measured as intensity. A comparison of magnitude and intensity is shown in the Table 4-18 below. Table 4-18 Magnitude and Modified Meralli Soles for, Ministering Earthquakes 1A-3A .i 1 3A-3.9 R%I 4A-49 N—v SA—S.9 VI—VII 6A-6.0 %It —IX 7A and higher NO cur higher Mognihude- Magnitude measures the energy released at the source of the earthquake end is measured by a se smogaph. Currently the most mad magnitude scale is the moment magnitude (Mw9 scale, with the fol low classifications of magnitude. Great-fW>8. Mjar-Mw=7.0-7.9. • Stmng-Mw=6.0-69. • Mcderate-M.=5.0-5.9. Ught-Mw=4.0-49. Min—M. MI—Mw <3. Estimates of Mw scale roughly match the local magnitude score (My, commonly called the Richter scale. One advantage of the Mw scale is that unlike other magnitude scales, it does not saturate at the upper end. That is, there is no value beyond which all large earthquakes have about the same magnitude. For this reason, Mw scale is now the mostaften used estimate of large magnitude earthquakes. Intensity Intensity is a measure of the shaking produced by an earthquake at a certain location and is based on felt affects. Currently the most used intensity scale is the modified Mercalli intensity scale, with ratings defined as follows in Table 4-19. Table 4-19 Modified Marcalli Infertility (MMU Sale Less than 7A I Micro-eaMquakes rot let m prey felt recorded W CmOnual 2P79 Ito 11 Feh s% a dam a to W idle s. toner 1M 3A-3.9 II to N (often felt by people, grey causes damage, shakng of Over 100Aaa rper Indoo 'ects narkeabk. I year Monona Cswm sago^ WON MitIption Ran WON ldmtif elm ale Rbk Anansment The role of dmete change in future vulnerability to earthquake is discussed above in the section tided, Climate Change Considerations and notes climate change effects on earthquakes is largely unknown, while the effect of future development is considered below in the section titled Development Trends Refuted to Hamrds and Risk People The entire population of the Eastern Region is within an earthquake hazard area and are potentially exposed to direct and indirect impacts from earthquakes, but more w in the southwestern counties. The degree of exposure is dependent on many factors, the self type their homes are constructed on, and their proximity to fault location and earthquake epicenter. The degree of susceptibility to earthquake hazards is also dependent on various factors, such as including the age and construction type of the structures people live in Whether impacted directly or indirectly, the entre population will have to deal with the consequences of an earthquake to some degree. Business interruption could keep people from working, mad closures could isolate populations, and loss of functions of utilities could impact populations that suffered no direct damage from an event itself. Impacts on persom and households in the planning area were estimated for the entire region for a 2,500- Year probabilistic earthquake scenario (2% chance of occurrence in SO years) resulted in low potential impacts. Table 4-20 summarizes the results of displaced households. It is estimated in a 2 p.m. time of ottunenas scenario that there would be a tutal of 37 injuries across the region, four afwhich would require hospitalization, There would not be any fatalities. Additionally, there could be increased risk of damage or injury from rock fall or landslides to travelers, hikers, and others recreating outdoors at the time of the earthquake. More detailed descriptions of the numbers of estimated casualties in the Eastern Region under the various time of accunence scenarios are available in the county annexes. Table 4.20 Estimated E irtfquaka Impacts on Pa men and Households N.mb—flieram Requiring Sh.rt-T.- Suter 2100-Year Earthquake I 15 S -H wu . raotal Summary MpoR wsp-i,y s praPMy The HA211S analysis estimates that there are I19,000 buildings In the planning area for the Eastern Region, with a total replacement value of $27.91 billion. Because all structures in the planning area are exposed to earthquake impacts to varying degrees and susceptible to earthquake impacts to varying degrees. This total represents the regionwide property exposure to seismic events. Most of the buildings end most of the associated building value are residential. According to the model and shown in Table 4-21, about 1,652 buildings will be at least moderately damaged, with 3 buildings completely destroyed. 14-- fan.m M9ion Hand Mid9adon Ran 1,tOIlYm Ea-Maxn fY Kbpee, Plan Harem Idsobfatim and Risk Iasnanem NazaN Wmlfudon and WskMnsmmt Table 4-21 Estimated Building Damage by Occufmncy *Ugm aader.e. imnal.. Ceaylese eaws M c9Ya M1 caw fs,l earth to caswi It0 ngac um U.20 0.92 e7L9 sail 2193 ' 1)1 cc al � 53t4a4539 ])aF .a.85 11671 IOB2 3047 2' as tl4 hap)n eau- a� -a. 261H o23 14 25 os au 036 : on ou"- sail 1.36 cwammem 3=1 o26 1l.11 d:9 Gas Os1 092. 012 ow im IrEueahtl . h521.E2 1M _.._. 1G.l6 1.91 5?.99 3.25 D34 ]� _. 039. a.[0 01her ReYbmYl IM26.7514 a6 1020.01 33W 917.10 5551 5aF 42M 1.17135A2 R.hglan 62513 0.s6 " a,% 1329 0s4 1.02 1 0 CLTO 3M Olepleesay as N2 75,ae 3G737 sets 45393 27 a6 23.69 20M 0.19 5.51 Tael 111,7s1 5A00 IA52 123 3 Swre WUS-MH Gb6d Summary Repot wSP Pnd ., The HAZUS model provides estimates of building related lasses in the earthquake scenario, broken out into two categories-, direct building losses and business interruption losses. The direct building losses are the estimated costs to repair or replace the damage caused to the building and its contents. The business interruption losses are the losses associated with inability to operate a business because of the damage sustained during the earthquake. Business interruption losses also include the temporary living expenses for those people displaced from their homes because of the earthquake. For the 2,500year probabilistic earthquake scenario, the total building related losses for the entire planning a is an estimated $133.27 million, as shown in Table 4-22. Of this total, direct building losses are estimated at $104.6 million and $28.68 million in income related losses.A map of these losses per county is shown in Figure 4-28 below. Table 4.22 HAZUS Building Related Economic Loss Estimates for 2,500-Year Scenario (Millions of Dellars) Wc0ory A1ea 0lagla; Orha, tkMr Income lnu�aA� OBI; ibeld awn e- -.triJ Man ', '-- Taw �3E4 I_ �0.0000 _-_ 0.7135 SJ4� 0.1375 0.5015 6.OBM CapnESMlrrd� 4D 0012.01B833t1o08 79Gw2 fMee_l _0MM OA998 1J0 .2 00 0.0.51 55t._.=Reavn 2.�37,-- -0.3On t e012 l8 I- DAM i_ Subtotal 39 4.1625 t7.9742 0.71M iA333 20.O1i0 apiu ,oc - Shvcarar 51.1 3.37M a2527 09741 -1.92fie --t82313 W,_Svuaux 3f.E307 104011 12FL43 2.WI 3Ef.91 81.5110 Cmbnt 112479 2,1543 6.7518 16043 224M 241012 nsentor Iy eocce 0.0000 - 02475 0J195 0.07e9 O.OHO 8ubbhl 48.7473 111. iS.MM 9A382 ILGS36 I"-- 4 Tew SLU 20.10 6.65 10.09 Sw,re. HTZUS-MH Global S-1y Rep1M WSP Mwrysis n9una-7E asset- Rgian HA211s 2.swy rRebea CS-da I-t Emrwmlr true The HAZUS analysis also estimated the amount of earthquake -caused debris in the planning area for the 2.500-Year probabilistic earthquake scenario event which is estimated to be 29,000 tons. CrW-1 Facifitie, ondLift(I es Manycritical facilities and infrastructure in the planning area are exposed to earthquakes. HAZMA7 releases can occ-ur during an earthquake from Feed facilities or transportation -related mcidena. Trampwtation corl'dlors can be disrupted during an earthquake. leading be the release of materials b7 the surrounding environment Facilities holding HAZMAT are of particular concern because of passible isolation of neighborhoods surrounding them During an earthquake, structures storing these materials could rupture and leakinto the surmurlding area or an adjacentwaterway, having a disastrous effect on the environment. HAZUS-MH dassifies the vulnerability of essential facilities to earthquake damage in two categories: at least moderate damage or complete damage. The analysis did not indicate any damages in these categories to specific facilities. The model also anticipates pipeline breaks and leaks in the Eastern Region's potable water, wastewater, and natural gas lines. Across these linear networks, the earthquake is expected to cause 625 pipeline leaks and 156 complete fractures in the potable water, wastewater, and natural gas systems. The model also estimates lifeline damages to rinear networks such as transportation and utilities. Damage to the transportation system is estimated at $7.8 million and utility lifelines at $2391MF- The steep terrain in the southwestern counties of the Eastern Region would likely experience multiple mckslides that could damage madways and disrupt traffic along the rail, highway, and mad corridors. Ecoroml, Economic impacts of an earthquake could be staggering in the impacted areas. Not only the costs of direct damages to property, infrastructure, and inventory, but the losses incurred from businesses forced to dose temporarily or permanently. As mentioned above, the total inmme-related economic losses are estimated by the model to be $28.68 million in the 2,500year scenario. HAZUS-MH models marry other estimated impacts, which are summarized in Table4-23 and Table 4-24 below. Yellowstone and Carbon counties have the highest potential losses, Stillwater, Wheatland and Big Hom counties also have higher loss ratios. Table 4-23 HAZUS-MH Earthquake Lon Estimation 2,500-Year Scenario Results Total Bullrings Damaged Slight 5,500 Moderate: 1,652 Extensive: 128 Cam lete 3 Bung and Income Related Losses $13317 million 55%of damage related to residential swcwrcs a% of loss due to business intern don Total Economic Lasses 0ncludesbuildin g, 1380.16 M'Bbn - Total Inc- and lifeline bases) Building$133-27 Million Income: $28.68 WE - Trans rtti-fUtiG .$246.89 Million Casualties(Wsed on 2 an. time ofocmrrenW Without requiring hospita6ration: 14 RequWng hmpit,kratbn: 1 Life th.et.ning 0 Fatalitiaeo Casualties (based on 2 p.m. tone of Without requiring hospiY6zation: 33 occurrence) Requiring hespita6zation:4 life thm.t rdng0 W,fities:0 Casualtieaaased on 5 p.m. time of Wdhout requiring hospitaltmi-23 n has 'taGution:3 m- fasmm xsg ^ Harm Mibpeon Mn Wren Wndfutim and ask Memnnt Life threatening 0 Fatarifi- 0 Fire Folbwh Forth uake 0Ignition, F.Generation 29,000 tons of debris generated 1160 estimated tmckleads to remove Households 27 Mred rRequireen no 15 SoumxW .S-MH(JoW Summary Moon WSP NWsis T"a-2a Pert rxanomia decoct M Cawft 0.qaw car aalanJ m,ra•a x.,. saaarevs.wx eneasw..m.o aasa.xsrw.aa Very few, if any, natural resources am susceptible to direct damage from earthquakes. Secondary hazards associated with earthquakes an have damaging effects on natural resources. For example, earthquake - induced landslides an potentially impact surrounding habitat Dam failure is also associated with earthquake and annesultin the lossofentire reservoirs, permantalteration ofunique downstream habitat and damage caused by catastrophic flash flooding. Where relevant secondary impacts on natural resources from earthquake are discussed in sections for other hazards. Devefopwrerrt Treads Rrf rted to Hazards and Risk Future population growth and building development in general will increase the exposure of the Eastern Region to earthquake by increasing the number of people and value of building inventory in the planning area. Replacing old buildings with new buildings constructed to modem building codes can help limit the overall vulnerability seated by development For example, development may lead to the abandonment or replacement of old structures built to old building codes, especially those in poor condition. In this use the development would lead to a decrease in susceptibilityof the building asset In the use of Eastern Montana, development concems with regard to earthquake were generally not raised by plan participants and development in general is stable with exceptions in certain counties like Yellowstone County that has experienced higher growth and development trends. Jurisdiction -specific commms are discussed further in jurisdiction annexes, where relevant Ride Sunmery Overall, earthquake is considered a low significance hazard due the unlikely nature of a were earthquake in the Eastern Regan, and the lack of history of damaging events in the planning area. • Effects on people: People can be injured or killed in earthquakes due to falling items or structures, as well as from cascading events triggered by the earthquake. Regiomvide, a maximum of 37 injuries are estimated by the HAZUS scenario, as well as 27 displaced households. • Effects on property. Impacts on property include direct damage to structures from the shaking. Regionwide, 1,783 buildings are estimated to be at least moderately damaged, with 3 of them completely destroyed, resulting in $13327 million in building damage. • Yellowstone and Carbon counties have the highest potential losses; Still —ter, Wheatland and Big Ham counties also have higher loss ratios • Effects on the economy im pacts mpacts an be from direct damages to structures as well as lost wages and income. The total economic doss is projected to be $380.16 millior>_ • Effects on critical facilities and infrastructure: Linear facilities, such as pipelines, railroads, and roadways, re largely at much greater risk than other facility types. fZ46.89 million in damages to linear facility networks are projected. • Uniquejiaisdictional vulnerability. the vulnerability is generally low throughout the Eastern Region, but the potential for damage is greater in the southwestem portion of the Eastern Region. • Related hazards: landslide, dam incidents Joliet Fromberg, Red Lodge I Fromberg. Carter Law Ekal+ka None Crow Tribe Low None Custer Low ism ,Md.Ci None Dankk Low 5cob ,Fl—ille None Dawson Low Richey, GIncr— None Fallon Low Plavna Baker None Garfield Low Jordan None Golden Valley Low R ate, Luis. None McCune Lae Orck None Musselshell Low Melslone, Roundup None Powder Rbar High Broadua None Prai' Low Te None RkhWd Low Fairview, Sidn None Rool—It Low WoB Point Poplar, Balnville. Culbemm Fraid None Rosebud Law C,Iatrip, Forsyth Nan. Sheldon Low Plentysoad, Nledicine Lake. Outlook W—by None Stil-ter Madam Columbus Greater loss upemd nmr Columbus. Treasure Low sham None Valle/ Low Glasg, Fort Peck Nash7o e None Wibaux Low Wibaux Nane Yellowstone Madam Billings, Broadview, Laurel Gm.terloas..;,e edn Lauml and Billings 42.7 Flooding He—ellMm6hm Daaoiptian Riverine flooding is defined as when a watercourse exceeds its'bank-full' capacity and is usually the most common type of flood event Riverine flooding generally occurs because of prolonged rainfall, or rainfall that is combined with soils already saturated from previous rain events. The area adjacent to a river channel is its floodplain. In its common usage,'floodplain' most often refers to that area that is inundated by the 1 DO-yearflood, the hood that has a 1 percent chance in any given year of being equaled or exceeded. Other types of floods include general rain floods, thunderstorm generated flash floods, alluvial fan floods, snowmelt rain on snow floods, dam failure and dam release floods, and local drainage floods. The 100year flood is the national standard to which communities regulate their floodplains through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). i� I'r•= ,.sr: 4 � Montana Easum W. Hanrd Mi6soisin Mn Hoard Idmdf, d-and Hsk Assnsmem Mmham Fa—N9ioo WS Mitigation Han HuudHmdf don and Birk Annvnenm The potential for flooding can change and increase through various land use changes and changes to land surface. A change in environment can create localized flooding problems inside and outside of natural flocdp!ains by altering or confining watersheds or natural drainage channels. These changes are commonly -reatad by human activities. These changes can also be created by other events such as wildland fires. Wildland firs create hydrophobic sods, a hardening or -glazing- gt the earth% surface that p—ent, rainfall from being abiarbed into the Bound, thereby increasing runoff; erosion, and downstream sedimentation of channels. Montana is wsceptible to the following types of flooding: • Rain in a general storm system • Rain in a localized intense thunderstorm • Melting snow • Rain on melting snow • Ice lams • Levee failure Dam failure • Urban storrnwater drainage • Rain on fire damaged watersheds Slow rise floods associated with mawmelt and sustained precipitation usually are preceded with adequate warning, though the event can last several days. Flesh floods, by their nature, occurverysuddenly but usually dissipate within hours. Even flash floods are usually preceded with warning from the NWS in terms of flash flood advisories, watches, and warnings. The average total annual precipitation in Montana is roughly 15.37 inches. The average total annual snowfall is 49 inches. Generally, the flood season extends from late spring and early summer, when snowmelt runoff swells rivers and creeks, to fall. Much of the rainfall occurs with thunderstorms during April to August Within the Eastern Region, Carbon County, where the Custer Gallatin National Forest is located, has the highest annual average of precipitation with 16.98 inches. G-gimphful Ma Affected The Missouri River, along with the tributaries within the watershed are Eastern Montana's primary waterways that result in flood hazards. Among the tributaries located within the different watersheds are the Big Muddy, Poplar, Powder, Rosebud, Tongue, and Yellowstone waterways. The Missouri River is the longest river in the United States, rising in the Rocky Mountains of the Eastern Centennial Mountains of Southwestem Montana and flowing east and south, and then flowing from east to west through Richland and Roosevelt counties, and then proceeding westward. Flooding along the Missouri typically occurs during the spring and is caused by long rainstorms and due to snowmelt runoff. Localized thunderstorms during the summer monsoon can also result in flash flooding throughout the Eastern Region planning area In addition to flooding from the Yellowstone River, a large portion of the Eastern Region near Billings in Yellowstone County is also prone to flooding along ditches and drains and other open waterways owned and maintained by private ditch companies that tarty water away from the City towards the Yellowstone River during flooding, irrigation from field rsnolf, and other stormwater runoff. The geographical extent of flooding across the Eastern Region is gmited. Figure 4-29 Illustrates the geographical area affected by flooding based on the National Flood Hazard Layer (NFHU and Huus geospatial flood datasets. Pad Occone"P ee Flooding is a natural event and rivers and tributaries in the study area have experienced periodic flooding with associated floods and flash floods. There has been 10 federally dedared cl—ters within the 23 counties and three Indian Reservations located in the Eastern Region from 1975 W 2022. The federal declarations since 2010 to present arc summarized in Table 4-26 below. According to the NCEI database, Montana's Eastern Region h. also incurred $ 23,587,0D0 in proper,, damages, $665,000 in crop damages and three deaths due to flooding since 1995. Table 4-26 Federally Declared Flooding Events Montana E stem Region 1974-2022 2D22 Severe Stmm and Fbodn DR4655-MT Cabon, StilWnec Treaaare, Yellowstone Daniels, McCune, Powder River, Stillwater, 21Y19 Flooding DR-1437-MT Treasure, Valley 2019 Fk>odng DR4405-MT Carbon, Custer, Golden Valley, Musselshell Treasure 2018 Fl..&n DR-4388-MT Va0 Dawson, Golden VaRry, Musselshell, Prairie, 2014 lea lams and Flooding DR4172-MT Rosebud, Richland. Stillwater, Wheatland Custer, Da ,,Gar( ,,McCune, 2D13 Flooding DR4127-MT MusselshelL Rosebud Vafl 1987 Severe Storms&Flood DR-777-MT Garfield McCune, Rosebud Valley 19% Heavy Rains, Landslides Be DR-761-W Daniels, Dawson Valley Flooding 1978 Severe Storms&Flooding DR-558-MT Big Hom, Carbon Powder River, Rosebud Stillwater Treasure, Yellowstone 1975 Rains, SnommeR Storms & Fin Wheatland Wheet Sauna' FEMq 2022 Freq ancyAlkardi—cl of Oxaerenso The Eastern Region has experienced multiple catastrophic flood events resulting in large-scale property damages. Snowmelt runoffs present a threat of serious flooding along rivers and creeks in the study area eadh year. Flash floods that produce debris flows and mudflows occur regularly and have caused significant damages in the past to homes, roads, bridges, and culverts. Based on the historical record of the ten federally declared events in the past 47 years from 1975 to presentwithin the Eastern Region, the Region has a major flood resulting in a FEMA declaration every 5 years an average. Using past occurrences as an indicator of future probability, flooding has the probability of future occurrence rating of likely throughout the Eastern Region Figure 4-30 depicts the annualized frequency of riverine flooding at a county level based on the NRI. The mapping shows a trend toward increased likelihood of flooding in the northern portion of the Eastern Region with Valley County having a 2.44 - 3.04 annualized frequency of riverine flooding; this trend is supported by the County having the highest number of flood insurance claims (see discussion in Vulnerability subsection). Richland and Roosevelt counties have a 1.83 - 2.43 annualized frequency of riverine flooding while all other counties in the study area have a 0.00 -1.22 frequency. ManaN Eastem 1e9;m HaaN Mlb won Mn slam rd Henri fiao'on +nd Hsk Rsassment Figure 4-30 Annualized Frequency of Riverine Flooding by County Wbeam Central I o�. l.1•aa•ay ( �_ _j\ 1 •••,.•• ••�.yyaunNM1 aSII terra �SY.Sw CEsneh Clung. Cbndderations As documented in Section 42.7 Flooding, precipitation is one factor of several that determine (boding. Other factorsinclude existing soil moisture conditions, frozen soils, rainfall rate, and special conditions such as rainansnow events. in urban areas, stomw nater infrastructure is perhaps the single gmatestdeterminant of flooding. Other infrastructure, in the form of large dams that are abundant across the planning area, Provides a large degree of protection from flooding in rural and urban areas. Perhaps the biggest concern of climate change impacts on flooding involves complex cascading effects that startvi th increased drought, which drives increased wildfire, which leaves more and larger fire scars, which an dramatically increase runoff and create flooding ordebris Rows on a scale that did not previously exist These factors complicate the impact of dimate change on flooding. Nevertheless, much can be said about the current and future effects of climate change on flooding in the planning area. The mate Change and Human Health report documents that a shift in the seasonality of precipitation amount is occurring. Spring precipitation has sightly increased, which has been offset by decreases during other times of the year (see Section 42.5 Drought subsection lided Climate Change Considerations, and Figure 4-19). The Montana t7mate Change and Human Health report (2021) projects the seasonal shift from snow to rain will occur earlier, as will peak runoff on streams. Peak runoff already occurs 10-20 days earlier than in 1948. The .mate Change and Human Health report also documents research indicting peak runoff at the end of the century is projected to occur 5-35 days earfisr clan it did from 1951-1980. This early -and -rapid snowmelt scenario can cause spring flooding or even ice -jam flooding and appears to already he playing out In recent years these have been problems on many rivers in Montana, leading to great damage and loss of rife, as documented in the 2021 Montana Climate Change and Human Health Mmnna E,v mR.gian HmN Mibpoo,, Mn Hazard Idmtifiutim and Nak Aoesmhmt Mer— Ex— Region.—M Mittextlon Plan —M Motif nanaM Risk Assesment report It is unclear if increasing late winter snow and early spring rain will increase the probability of rain - on -snow events, but this issue is potentially serious and worthy of monitoring in future. HMPc Ice jams are responsible far much of die worst flooding in Montanx s hhtmy. Ice yam flooding typically occurs along mountain screams, when heavy rainfall or upstream melting rise; stream lbws to the point of breaking wl the ice cover, which can pile up on bridge pies or other diwnel obstructions and cause flooding behind thejam. Once the icejam break up, downstream areas are vulnerable to flash floods. The increasing possibility of midwinter thaws and heavy early spring rainfall events could increase the risk of sudden ice break up. The situation is fuller exacerbated if the ground is still frozen and unable to soak up rainwater. Further, according to the Fifth National Climate Assessment, the Northern Great Plains region, which includes Montana is experiencing unprecedented climate -driven extremes related to flooding. For example, record floods along the Missouri River and its tributaries in 2011 and 2019 caused evacuations and billions of dollars in damages and research suggested that these records floods were caused by natural variability within the system. Also, while trends show that annual peak streamflow runoff will decrease across the region, with a few exceptions, according to the Fifth National Climate Assessment portions of Montana should expect to experience some of the highest increases in annual flood damage across the US. due to climate change. While it is not possible to define with further specificity the impacts related to climate change an eadhjudsdiction within the Region related to flooding risk exacerbated by climate change, future updates to this plan should revisit this topic as scientific reports are updated and trends become more apparent Potential Magnibde and severity Magnitude and severity can be described by several factors that contribute to the relative winerabiri ties of certain areas in the floodplain. Development or the presence of people and property in the hazardous areas, is a critical factor in determining vulnerability to flooding. Additional factors that contribute to flood vulnerabilityrange from specific characteristics of the floodplain to characteristics of the structures located within the floodplain. The following is a brief discussion of some of these flood factors which pose risk Elevation: The lowest possible point where floodwaters may enter a structure is the most significant factor contributing to its vulnerability to damage, due to the higher likelihood that it will came into contact with water for a prolonged amount of time. • Flood deptic The greater the depth of flooding, the higher the potential for significant damages due to lager availability of flooding waters. • Flood duntiom The longer duration of time that floodwaters are in contact with building components, such as structural members, interior finishes, and mechanical equipment the greater the potential for damage. • Vakacity,Flowing water exerts forces on the structural members of a building, increasing the likelihood of significant damage (such as scouring). Corseroction type: Certain types of commotion and materials are more resistant to the effects of floodwaters than others. Typically, masony buildings, constructed of brick or concrete block,, are the most resistant to damages simply bemuse masonry materials an be in contact with limited depths of flooding without sustaining significant damage. Wood frame structures are more susceptible to damage because the construction materials used are easily damaged when inundated with water. Major flood events present a risk to life and property, including buildings, contents, and their use. Floods can also affect lifeline utilities (e.g, water, sewage, and power), transportation, the mvimnmmt jobs, and the local economy. Wibaux 3 4 1993 2/I , 1948 S77 - h26 31 6 i430,3m VeBoAstse 11/Id/1981 11/6M13 1 11.814,8m.16 1 263 2FS $76.6060M T•tY 57,6FA 90S37 1 1m5 12T2 $251.790.60000 Source FEMAMot HFIPoarsasof, 7, 10`,2QQZnIMCam,vni1y5oxve8eok9opan Repetitive, Lou Repetitive losses are NFIP-insured structures that have had at least two paid flood losses of more than $1,0m each in any ten-year period since 1978. The Eastern Region has a total of 61 repetitive loss properties as of 202Z with the majority being located in Valley and Yellowstone Counties. Severe Repetitive Less (SRLI properties have either four or more separate claims for flood damage (with each claim exceeding $5,000 and with the sum of all payments exceeding S20.0DOl or two or more separate claims where the total of all claims exceeds the value of the property. The Eastern Region has one SRL property, a single-family structure, in Dawson County. Table 4-28 below fists the repetitive loss structures that have been identified throughout the Eastern Region study area. Valley County has the highest amount of repetitive loss structures, claims and totals paid out overall with 25 structures, 27 repetitive loss claims, and nearly $l million dollars paid out due to repeated flooding and flood insurance loss claims. This is followed by Yellowstone County which has 21 repetitive loss structures, 53 repetitive loss claims and $747,592.02 in funding paid. It should be noted that a flood insurance claim can be riled when a property and its adjacent property is inundated. Table 4-Z8 Fastens Region Repetitive Lou Properties by C.-ty Carbon C rty 3 1 3 37 5650 Device Chun / S 2 1 $13796731 Muzekhell Coun 8 19 7 1 1638.988.46 Phifi County3 5 3 527,673.46 Valk Ceun 25 57 21 1 3 $946.46637 Y.Ua lime County21 53 19 2 $747,592A2 Total 61 143 54 1 6 s2,575,044.12 source FEMA R•9ion M se, of 9/102022 VuleanblTity Ame emrerst Figure 4-31 depicts the risk index rating for riverine flooding based on FEMA's NRI. The NRI defines risk as the potential for negative impacts as a result of a natural hazard and determines a community, risk relative to other communities by examining the expected annual loss and social vulnerability in a given community in relation to that community's resilience. The Eastern Region has four counties with a relatively high riverine flooding risk based on the NRi. They are Big Ham Custer, Roosevelt and Valley counties, all of which have a higher risk of riverine flooding. This an be attributed to both the Missouri and Yellowstone watersheds passing through eadh of these areas. There are seven counties that are classified as having a relatively low riverine flooding risk level. These counties within the Eastern Region are Carbon, Dawson, Musselshell, Powder River, Rosebud, Wheatland, and Yellowstone. The other remaining 11 counties are considered to have a low riverine flooding risk and Daniels County, has no rating in correlation to riverine inundation risks currently. n4'�gp:jl . Morton Eastem Re91m Hord Mitl9atlan Mn Montana Eastem Region H.H Mitigatan Nan ... ldmtifiudm all Nis flax— Word Nmti6radm all Risk A --int Past flood events in Montana's Eastern Region have damaged roads, bridges, private property, businesses, and critical lifeline facilities. Future events may result in greater damages depending an patterns of growth, ,and use development and climate change. In summary, the magnitude of flood hazards in the Eastem Region is aitiul. National good Ines arrce Program PolicyAncelysis The NFIP aims to reduce the impact of flooding on private and public structures by providing affordable insurance to property owners and by encouraging communities to adopt and enforce floodplain management regulations. These efforts help mitigate the effects of flooding on new and improved structures. The State has analyzed NFIP flood -loss data to determine areas of Montana's Eastern Region with the greatest flood risk Montana's Eastern Region flood4ou information was obtained from FEMA's 'Montana's Coverage Claims' for Montana's Eastern Region, which documents losses from 1978. This section was updated based an information obtained from FEMA's PIVOT database through Montana Department of Natural Resources and Comervation (MT DNRQ dated August 10, 2022. There are several limitations to analyzing flood risk entirely on this data, including Only losses to participating NFIP communities are represented; • Commundesjoined the NFIP at various times since 1978; The number of flood insurance po8cles in effect may not include all structures at risk to flooding; and Some of the historical loss areas have hexer mitigated with property buyouts. Montana's Eastern Region has a total of$951,790,600 in NFIP coverage, with 1,m5 total flood claims, 1,272 current polices and $7,868,905 dollars paid out total due to flood damage and losses. NFIP data and statistics for the Eastem Region is summarized in Table 4-27 below. Yellowstone County has the highest amount of dollars paid out due to flood claims with $1,814,878, followed by Valley County with $1590563 in claims. Table 4-Z7 Montana Eastem Region NAP statistixs Date ElNctiv. Dollar Paid Flood eumm County ��LTm�TGTm��� touted Firm Date IHistotiuB Mims Ford.. Cov.ng. a) Figure 4-31 Risk Index Rating for Riverine Flooding by County Western Central laalamn Region I ltegbn O+w- ® __^r.'rtr hM�ao"p.a b10II —raR.v There is an increased risk of flash flooding and debris flows in Mantana in general as a result of mcentactive fire seasons. Most bum areas will be pmne to flash flooding and debris flours for at least two years after the fire. Locations downhill and downstream fmm burned areas are most susceptible, especially near steep terrain. Rainfall that would normally be absorbed will run off extremely quickly after a wildfire, as burned soil can be as water repellant as pavement As a result much less rainfall is required to produce a flash flied. As water runs downhill thmugh burned areas itcan create majorenssion and pick up large amounts of ash sand silt rod, and burned vegetation. Pe I'l. Vulnerable populations in Montana's Eastern Region include those that live within known floodplain or near areas vulnerable to flash floods, as well as people traveling through or in areas used for maeaticnal purposes From to flash flooding. Within the Eastern Region Custer County has the highest amount of people located in the floodplain with 6,711. This is followed by Yellowstone County with 1,830. The third highest amount of people reside in Big Ham Coun/ywith 856. Of these populations residing in floodplain, certain populations are particularywlnerable, such as the elderly and veryyoung, those living in long -tens care facilities, mobile homes, hospitals, low-income housing areas, or temporary shelters, people who do not speak English well. tourists and visitors, and those with developmental, physical, or sensory disabilities. Table 4-29 below highlights the people who are located on reservation land that are located in the floodplain, including a significant number of persons of the Crew Tribe. The impacts of flooding on vulnerable populations can potentially be the most severe. Families may have fewer financial resources to prepare forar recover frame flood, and they maybe more Bkey to be uninsured or underinsured. Individuals with disabilities may need more time to evacuate, so evacuation notices will .. Pee. 1x 92 - - M•I Monona Eanam Pegian Xazard Mlogatlon Plm Hoard Id-65.6 and Risk Aa—Ma M... F — Peglm Haab M.N.— Plan Named Idmdfia8on ad W Assessment need to be issued as soon as feasible, and communicated by multiple, inclusive methods. Population totals for the counties located in Montana's Eastern region are shown in Table 4-29 below. Table 4-29 Eastem Region Population Lacated in the 1%A-1 ChAnce Floodplstn Flood hazards do not stop at the 1% chance flood line and an additional analysis was completed of the 02% chance flood zone (500-year flood). Data describing the 02% flood zone are more limited. In fact, 0.2%flood zone data were available for only 11 counties and no tribal reservations. Nevertheless, analysis of a more expansive flood zone has value and was completed for these 11 counties (fable 4-30). The absence of 13 counties and 2 tribal reservations in Table 4-30 does not indicate a lade of 0.2%flood risk in thesejudsdictions. One additional nuance exists in the 02%floodplain analysis. The values reported in Table 4.30 indicate the people located between the maximum extent of the 1%chance floodplain and the 02% chance floadplain. To get the fatal number of people within the 0.2% chance floadplain, the values in Table 4-29 and Table 4-30 must be combined. Yellowstone County has 1,183 people located in the area between the maximum extent of the 1%chance floodplain and the 02%chance floadplain, the most of the 11 counties included in this analysis (rable4-30). This is followed by Carbon and Stillwater Counties with 225 and 155 people, respectively. Figure 4-32 Expected Annual Loss Rating Riverine Flooding by County o1117 Cen1m1 Eastem Em'— C- ae F.F.awa,..,ar..w GIS analysis was used to further estimate Montana's Eastern Region potential property and economic losses. The April 2022 MSDI Cadastral Parcel layer was used as the basis for the inventory of developed parcels. GIS was used to create a centroid, or point, representing the center of each parcel polygon, which was overlaid on the best available floodplain layer. Multiple flood layers from different sources were used in the analysis to create a full coverage of flood hazard for the Eastern (legion through the utilization of FEMXs NFHL (as of 6/l/2022), and other sources. The DNRC provided digitized flood mapping from paper maps that FEMA has not yet converted over to the NFHL FEMA Region VIII also provided 1%annual chance flood risk areas based on Hazus flood models to help fill in areas where FEMA has not mapped. For the purposes of this analysis, the flood zone that intersected the centroid was assigned w the flood zone for the entire parcel. Mother assumption with this model is that every panel with an improvement value greater than zero was assumed to be developed in some way. Only improved parcels, and the value of those improvements, were analyzed and aggregated by region, county,jurisdiction, property type and flood zone. The summarized results for the Eastern Region are shown below. More detailed summarized results for each county and community by property type are shown in the tables and maps provided within each jurisdictional Annex. Table 4-31 below summarizes the counts and improved value of parcels in the region, broken out by each county, that fall within the 1%chance floodplams. Additionally, Table 4-31 also shows loss estimate values which are calculated based upon a proportion of the improved value and estimated contents value and FEMA depth -damage relationships. A two -foot flood is assumed for the purposes of this planning -level flood loss estimate, which generally equates to a 25%loss based on structure and contents value. Custer County has the highest amount of properties exposed to flooding and an estimated less value of over $131 Million. Yellowstone County has loss values with over $70 Million in estimated losses, followed Monona Eanem Re91on Heard Mid,Am Monaca Us— W. Heard M'dexion Han Heard Idm8fia6m and WA AaesvnarR !Yard Ideatfiadon and Risk Aaasment Table 4-30 Eastern Region Population Located in the 0.2%Annual Chance Floodplain - S —ENRC, H-4 FEMA NFHL property The NRI defines risk as the potential for negative impacts as a result a(a natural hazard and determines a communitys risk relative to other communities by examining the expected annual loss and social vulnerability in a given community in relation to that community's resilience. This information is categorized in Figum4-32 below.Montana's Eastern Region has one countywith a relatively moderate expected lass rating based an the NRI: Custer County. This also coincides with Custer County having substantial floodplain development in and around Miles City, though levees in the area provide some level of protection. Other counties with relatively low expected loss rating due to floods include Carbon, Big Han, Dawson, Musselshell Roosevelt, Stillwater, Valley, and Yellowstone counties. by Carbon County with estimated loss parcel values with over $38 Million in losses. Overall Montana's Eastern Region has $I.SBillion in total value exposed and a combined estimated loss of over $394 Million for 1%annual chance flooding. There are also 7,050 parcels looted in the floodplain and 14,789 people at risk in the Eastern Region. The jurisdictional break doom for each county is looted within eadi annex. The summarized results for the Eastern Region are shown in Table 431 below. Table 4-31 Eastem Region Pamle at Risk to 1 % Flood Hazard by County and Jurisdiction County B19 HIM Improved P.—I. sm Irap—d Veto. $42048,541 coment V.I- 528.419,080 T.t.IV.1- 570A67,621 EW—W Lou 117,616,905 Carbon - 390 194,893,650 $59 13360 $153,907A10 538,474753 Carter 117 S9A09,733 57,233,297 $16,643.030 $4,160.757 Custer 1011 $339329,544 $786,05 04 SS25381.748 5131,34%43T Daniels 19 57.306.490 51,274,230 22580,720 5645,180 Dawson 184 UU63219 S7 985725 536248.944 S9. 236 Fallon 60 57,094177 $406480789 511,746,966 $2.936741 Garfield 54 $3.949A54 $3,149.022 $7098.476 51,774,619 Golden .11 26 52,615,550 52.147,890 $4.763,440 $1,190,860 McCane 73 1 SS.663.177 S013 9 I SIDA76516 52619,129 Mussekhell 221 i12948261 $6252576 521200,837 $5,300,209 Powder River 164 511A76,921 54399881 $19,8760802 $4969.200 Praide 12 fIA36540 $13510150 52799,690 5697423 Richland 156 $18.497,151 $13 98821 $31,895.972 $7.973,993 Roosevdt 170 542111267 $49.333-%B S91A44,775 SaWl,194 Rosebud 76 $9.189.124 $7S56J157 $16,745.981 54,186,495 Sheridan 235 $23,978,537 574,143,794 53412L331 $9,530,583 Stillwater 291 SSS.59SA78 532888.481 S98A84,959 S2Z121,Z40 Trcawrc 44 $4A91676 $4232678 54726354 SL1811589 Valley 351 $41.285,741 S28A90,501 569,776242 577,444860 Wheatland 113 $11,816349 $10801,820 Q1.818,169 $5.454.542 twbaux 38 S2031,999 57344,740 $3374739 5846,1B5 Yetlowxtone 915 S16H328A69 $114391,695 5282720,164 f70.680.041 TotJ 7.050 $932.770,048 $603,523,431 $1,53SZ3.479 $384.073.37. Seuicec DNRC Haws r NFHL The three tribal reservations looted in the Eastern Region were identified to have 412 improved parcels with an estimated loss of over $22 Million. The Czow, Tribe in particular has $11,984,383 in estimated potential losses and the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux tribes have $10,106,363 in potential estimated losses due to flooding. While the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation is vastly smaller with $499 in estimated potential lasses. There is a total of 1,023 people an reservation land located within the 1%annual chance of flooding Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). The 02% risk for the Tribal Nations has not been mapped, preventing quantification of potential loss from 02% annual chance floods on tribal lards. Totals are listed in Table 4-32 below. Table 4.32 liste. Region Parnak at Risk to l%Armco! Chang by Tribe Cow Tdbe 230 1 S28A43,085 $19A94,447 1 $47.937,532 $11,984383 681 Fat Peck Aatnlboine and Sbru TrBre 181 1 $21,611.356 1118814.097 1 $40A25A53 $10.106363 337 Mmlana Eascem Fesim —,e Mitlsaum Plan Hoard Mmtlfiudon end Risk Aananmt Montana Eastem Fusion H ni Miligntbn plan Heartl ldentif uonaW Risk Asseearent Tribal Improved E.Plo—d raiment Estimated PPabn Northrm Cheymne kdan I S1,330 5665 SI.995 5193 5 Rase m Toro 1 412 1 $59A35.771 1 $3 ra 309,209 fBB ib{ os7 .S220B7 2ti t.a23 5.1— DNRC, Hans. FE1MA ii;K Data describing the 02%flood zone are morelimited. In fact 02% flood zone data were available foronly 11 counties and no tribal reservations. Nevertheless, analysis of a more expansive flood zone has value and was completed for these 11 counties (Table 4-33). The absence of 13 counties and 2 reservations in Table 4-33 does not indicate a lack of flood risk in thesejurisdictions. One additional nuance exists in the 0.2%floodplain analysis. The values reported in Table 4-33 indicate the pmperty located between the maximum extentof the 1% chance floodplain and the 02% chance floodplain. To get the total number of people or value of property within the 02% chance floodplain the values, the values in Table 4-30 and Table 4-33 must be combined. (Table 4-33). Yellowstone County has over $109 million of property located between the maximum extent of the 1% annual chance floodplain and 02% annual chance floodplain, with losses projected to be $27 million. This is the most of the 11 counties in the 02% chance analysis. Carbon County is second in loss values with over $7 Million in estimated losses. Stillwater County ranks third in estimated loss parcel values with over $6 Million in presumed losses. Overall Montana's Eastern Region has $202,028,564 in total value exposed and combined estimated loss of $50,507,141 for the area between the maximum extent of the 1% chance floodplain and 02% annual chance floodplain There are also 942 parcels and 1,992 people in this area, classified by FEMA as Zone X-shaded. Note that many areas are not mapped by FEMA, or have the Zone-X shaded mapped, thus the true risk is likely muds larger to these more severe but less frequent floods, these areas are not required to be regulated by the NFIP. The jurisdictional break down for each county is located within each annex. The summarized results for the Region are shown in Table 4-33 below. Table 4.33 Eastern Region percale at Risk to 02% Flood Hazard by Cormty and Jurisdiction Big Hom 3 $129,490 5129A90 5258,980 $64,745 Carbon 103 51B ,1-1: S9, 4T5 $2 30 5 f7 i25 Dawson 76 f8,190582 S4.670336 S12M,918 S3215,7W 155 Fallon 22 73675 WSg223 M723,8% $1 680.974 41 Golden Val 14 $907,333 S716,397 S1,623,730 1405,932 18 Musselshell 32 $1 34.689 Si 100 $3 789 S813 7 i0 Richland 25 54373,014 SZ75IA37 57124A5I S1,781713 45 Rosebud 1 S22A810 $220.840 S441AN S11OA20 Stillwater at 117.79fi,252 S%BSZ691 S27,648,943 M91ZZ36 170 Vfieattend /7 f2,769,818 fi 7 f1 $4277032 SIA69250 106 Yepoaslone 53B f70A86518 539.697 32 S109,784A50 S27A46,012 1,183 Baal 1 942 $1 23 II $73 733 3202 02B SN $50 07141 1 ,wrcas: onRG Heat FEMA NFHI. Tneal Rnervaeam parcel era H reeaaW in an. rapektiva rwnen Cr&iml Fadfilles ondLs/eRrms To estimate the potential impact of floods on critical facilities, a GIS overlay was performed of the flood hazard layer with critical facility point locations data Critical facilities at -risk to the 1% annual chance flood Mmlana Us— Fe91m Hoard MIe'9adm Ran Hazard IdmdfiW. and Risk Asasvnmu by county and FEMA Lifeline are listed in Table 4-34 below. Impacts to any of these facilities could have wide ranging ramifications, in addition to property damage and other cascading impacts. Table 4.34 Eastern Region Critical Facilities at Risk to 1% Annual Chance of (goad by Facility Type CouMY 2 u see I S I F unaa_ rtMq hNtu;now <w4 Montana cry caw The 1%annual chance of flooding for the Eastern Region shows that the majority of fact ides that have the most critical facilities at risk to flood damage are within the Transportation lifelines with 651 total. It should be noted that the majority of these are bridges and may have a lower risk of flooding. Bridges like these can be a cause of comem. Food, Water and Shelter facilities have the second highest FEMA tifeline facilities at risk with 45 total. Energy critical facilities are third with 45 total facilities. Energy facilities could be at risk of losing power, potentially affecting the surrounding communities. &nnarny Flooding can have major negative impacts on the local and regional economy, including indirect losses such as business interruption, lost wages, reduced tourism and visitation, and other downtime costs. Flood events can cut OR customer access to a business as well as close a business for repairs or permanently. A quick response to the needs of businesses affected by flood events can help a community, maintain economic vitality in the face of flood damage. Responses to business damages can include funding to assist owners in elevating or relocating flood -prone business structures. Tourism and outdoor recreation are an important part of the Re -ri economy. If part of the Eastern Region planning area were damaged by flooding, tourism and outdoor recreation could potentially suffer, as witnessed during the Yellowstone flooding in 2022. AdditioneIV flooding can impact the economy through the direct damages and losses to property and toss to recover, as summarized in the property section above. Historic and CDIluraf Resaurcas Floodplxins and their adjacent areas arc regularly used for environmental conservation, leisure, recreation, and tourism. Historic and cultural resources are also known to occur within floodplains. In the event of a major flooding event damages to historic and cultural resources are possible. Natural Resourtrs Natural resources are generally resistant to flooding and tloadplains provide many natural and beneficial functions. Wetlands, for example, exist because of natural flooding incidents. Nonetheless, after periods of previous disasters such as drought and fire, flooding can impact the environment in negative ways. Area recently suffering from wildfire damage may erode because of flooding, which can temporarily alter an ecological system Fish can wash into wads or over dikes into Flooded fields, with no possibility of escape. Pollution from roads, such as oil, and hazardous materials can wash into rivers and streams during floods, as these can settle onto normally dry soils, polluting them for agricultural uses. Human development such as bridge abutments can increase stream bank erosion, causing rivers and streams to migrate into non - natural courses. Devefopmmt Tmi ds Related to Hazanb and Risk Potential expansion in the future and construction overall in Eastern Montanus floodplain, can heighten the susceptibility of the region to flooding by expanding the amount of people and value of the property inventory within the planning area. Development in Eastern Montanus floodplain, should be enforced using hazard mitigation measures available through the NAP and local floodplain activities. Such as floodprooring, relocation, elevation or demolition and relocation In low -risk areas. Other influences that should be considered inp projections of future flood risks are land cover, flow and watersupplymanagement soil moisture and channel conditions. In addition to discouraging development in flood -prone areas and protecting natural systems such as wetlands, local government planners and engineers in urbanized parts of the Region should consider infrastructure designs that accommodate growth and future trends in precipitation. "srmnry The Eastern Region averages a major flood event every 5 years which equates to a probability of future occurrence rating of likely throughout the Eastern Region. Flooding has a high significance hazard overall in the region but there is significant variability byjurisdiction. • There is an estimated 14,789 people located within the l%Annual Chance of Flooding within the Eastern Region. Custer County makes up nearly hall with 6,711 people, followed by Yellowstone County with 1,830 people and Big Hom County with 856 people. These three counties make up BD%of the people located within the designated 1% floodplain. • The Eastem Region has a total of $394 Million in estimated property losses due to flood damages. Custer, Yellowstone, and Carbon counties have the highest estimated loss totals with the study area These three counties make up more than half of the potential property losses within the region. • Flooding can have major negative impacts on the local and regional economy, including indirect losses such as business interruption lost wages, reduced tourism and visitation, end other downtime costs Iftn— Fasam Pua- Haanl Midgetbn Mn H—M Nenafiratim and FU*A nest There is a total of 765 critical facilities in the Eastern Region exposed to flood hazards. The highest exposure of FEMA Lifeline facilities is transportation (bridges) (allowed by the Food, Water, Shelter category. • Related hazards•. Dam Failure, Landslide, Wildfire Table 4-35 Risk Summary Table: Flooding Eastem Region H' h Big Hom County Medium HangLodi G— Chvw Trlbehr mom rem Carbon County Mecum 11—mek, Bridget, )diet Fromberg. Red L Nane CWmCmn Medum E3rkka None Custer County High Ismay, Miles City High risk with Miles CM and portions of the 'ncorporated area due to population and property in the floodpkin; some risk is mitigated through Meer (wrrentil not showing as certified to provide 1% aawal chance flood protection) and other preventive measures in CcterC-riv. Crow Tribe High NA Dankls Court Mecum Sc Flawitle None Dawson County Medium RicheyGlendinm None Fallon Court Mecum Plevna Baker Nane Garlldd Counly Medium )ordain None G.IdenVall"Coanty Medum Itate, Lavine None McCc-County Medum Cade None Musse6h.1 County Medum Mdstone, Roundup None PawderRNxCaun Medum Broad., - None Pieltiecourty Medium I Tew None Riddand Cauca F.IW—,Skin None Romevelt County Waif Paint Poplar, Bainvi114 Culbengn, Frod Nona Rosebud Cam Cok' Fo None Sheridan County EM.Sum Pkntywoo t Medicine I.A. Outloo We None Stibvrter Com Columbus None TreawreCoun None Valley County High Giesgow. Fos Pak Nasbu O e None Witaux Medum Wbwx None Yelkwsto-County High Billings, Breadview, Laurel None Mmaani Fartem P•alon Hannf Midgae'an Plan IWaN la,ndsradm.nd tusk A„e,umnr Montana Eamam a•eien wcaW Mitlaadon Mn wre�d manusc,eon.na N,taee,mnt 42.8 Hanrdmrs Mat.r)alslnclderrts Hazard/Problem Description A hazardous material incident is defined as any actual or threatened uncontrolled release of a hazardous material, its hazardous reaction products or the energy released by its reactions that pose a signizc,nv riot to human life and health, property and/ar the environment Hwarduus materials imddent-. may alsa -dude chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive (CBRNE) incidents. CBRNE inciden,s an cause a variety of impacts in Montana, depending an the nature of the Incident, material used. and environmental factors. Hazardous materials incidents can occur anywhere hazard materials are stored or transported. There are no designated transportation routes throughout the region, Although there are several fixed facilities within same of the city limits. Routes that are used for transporting nuclear and hazardous materials through the Eastern Region byvehide are Interstate 15 and State Highways 2. 87,191, and 200. In the 2018 SHMP, it's noted that a O.25-mile buffer is placed around all highways, major madways, railroads, and Risk Management Program (RMP) facilities as a proxy for potential impact areas. Them jar highways and railways within Montana and its Eastem Region are shown in Figure 4-33 and Figure 4-34 below. In 2020 there were 42 Tier II facilities located throughout Eastem Montana, although most are located along Interstate 94 and State Highways 2,12, 87, 212, and 310.Tier II facilities store regulated hazardous materials that exceed certain threshold amounts. As a general rule, anyharmat release is anticipated to have an impact of no more than one mile around the spill area The impact to life and property from any given release depends primarily on: • The type and quantity of material released. • The human act(s) or unintended event(s) necessary to cause the hazard to occur. • The length of time the hazard is present in the area • The tendency of a hazard, or that of its effects, to either expand, contract or remain confined in time, magnitude, and space. • Characteristics ofthe location and its physical environment that can either magnify or reduce the effects of a hazard. Figure 4-33 Monterin's Rail Systems �... Y Figure 4.34 East.m Region Hazardous Matwils Tran.porStion Raub. 414Ya Jai JOIN ra•'•' Z. �• f ..Wv�1 .M )tti �� i .-ii �s -ZN 1"asee C—' iaer. -y Je4 wef � i ' arr Mudana E-14,11- Haiara Mialidon Ran Montana—,.,[.. Hamra IA'itq. can HamrilIdaatlfordw and NA Amamment HafaN Iaen6F.m5on end N,k Asn,men, aaw.phdA—Aff led Hannat incidents can occur at a fixed facility or during tramportation. Hazardous materials facilities are identified and mapped by the counties they reside in, along with the types of materials stored there; facilities generally reside in and around communities. The EPA requires facilities containing certain extremely hazardous substances to generate Risk ManagementPlans (RMPs) and resubmit these plans everyfive years. As of 2022 there are 42 NAP fadlides located in Montana's Eastern Region. In transpartation, hazardous materials generally followmajor shipping routes where possible (including mad, rail, and pipelines), creating a hazard area immediately neighboring these routes. Information provided by the National Pipeline Mapping System (NPMS) indicate several pipelines conveying gas cr hazardous liquids across the planning area. Pipeline ruptures can result in major spills, or even explosions. These pipelines also pass through areas where denser papulations of people and property are located. Powder River County, had the most pipeline hamnat incidents (41 incidents or 25%of all pipeline incidents in the Eastern Region), followed by Yellowstone County with 20% of all pipeline incidents, and Fallon County which had 13%of all pipeline incidents in the Region. The designated transportation routes, and gas and hazardous liquid pipelines for these counties are shown in Figure 4-34, Figure 4-35, Figure 4-36 and Figure 4-37 below. These figures illustrate the geographical area affected by hazardous material incidents along transportation routes. Overall hazardous material incidents have a limited geographical extent in the Eastern Region. Figure 4.36 Pipelines looted Within Yellowstone County Maaana Faatem Pegim Haab Mitigatbn Ran i nl Idnwfioxi and Rnk Anesmimt Mona�u U— Region —Mitigation ebn —Idmtifi.t and Rnk a«amwnt Figure 4.37 Pipelines L—td Within Fallon County Sauce Nnimd Kpd;ne Mapping 5Ynem I+aR 0- Them are a variety of mechanisms to get an idea of the number and types of past hazardous materials incidents in the Eastern Region. One such repository is the catalog of hazardous materials spill and accident reports at the National Response Center (NRC) as part of the Right to Know Network (RTK NET). According to this database, between 1990 and 2022 there were three incidents reported across the two Tribal Reservations and 1,156 incidents in the counties within the region. Table 4-36 below shows the 32-year cord for reported incidents in Montana's Eastem Region. Table 4.36 NRC Reported Incidents Central Montana Region 1990.3022 Blo Hom 101 Carbon 37 Carter 5 Custer 13 Dawson 37 Fallon 43 Golden Valley 3 Mccore 9 Mu —shell 18 Mmuna Eason Mill- Haord Mitigatbn Ran t4aartl Idmtifiudm aM Risk Aaesunmt Fowler River 69 praid. 7 Richlmd 59 Roosevelt 65 Rosebud 33 Shedd. 10 stigwater 12 Tres 3 Wheatland 7 W6aux 4 Yelawstme I 621 Source N.— R,a puaa Center odtlmt Peport caul e. According to the data, during the time period between 1990 and 2022 the Eastern Region saw an average of 35 NRC-reported incidents per year, which means that each county can reasonably expect multiple hazardous materials responses annually. Yellowstone and Big Ham counties have had the highest amount of hazmat incidents and spills. Figure 4-38 shows the number of hazardous material incidents by county between 1990 and 2022. Figure 4.38 Hazardous Materials Incidents Reported to the NRC by County— Eastern Regiorc 1990.20Z2 - Number of Incidents by County Big Hun Carbon . tarter Custer oawmn � Fallon r, Goldin Valley Malone ' Musselshell Powder River Pralde Richland Roosevelt Rosebud Sheridan Stillwater Treasure Wheatland Wibaux Yell— to-0 100 200 300 400 500 600 Sauce Nae'mal Respwne CmtwlnddmtRepoeDmbau ' Figure4-39 shows the percentage of each type of incident over the 32year period between 1990 and 2022. Spills from foxed rson-mobile facilities such as Tier II or RMP facilities have the highest percentage of hazmat incidents reported, accounting for S7% total. The second mart common percentage of incident types accrued are pipeline incidents with 16%. Regular maintenance and detailed planning locations are necessary to ensure that thtse incident types am properly —Led and prepared For. Mobile incidents me third with 13%of the total These can occur when hazmat materials are being transported along state highways and intemotes and where injuries or fatalities are more likely to potentially occur. Figure 4-39 Hazardous Materials Incidents Reported W the NRC by Type - Eastern Region 1990- 2022 So n x National R.,—. dnW Inddmt Report.... Freelu recy/131t.lihood ofom.rsrro. The study area experiences multiple hazardous materials incidents each year, with different degrees of effect Based an the history of past occurrences, there is a 1DO% chance that the Eastern Region will be impacted by a hazardous materials incident in any given year making this hazard have a highly, likely potential for ocnarence. Hazardous material spills and releases, both from fixed fadfities and during transport, will continue b3 occur in Montana's Eastern Region annually. Mmuna Eason Ragim-o Milt,.. Ran -A Wmtifiutim aM Risk Anasment Comet. ch ge Caaddarad.. Modifica0ons in future conditions are unlikely to impact the rates of occurrence for human -caused hazards, such as hazardous material incidents. Nevertheless, it is possible that an increase or change in the occurrence of other hazards, such as severe storm and fire events, may increase the likelihood of an accidental hazardous materials release from transportation events. Pot.n0al Ma9rif ek. and Sevetihr Potential effects that could occur from hazardous waste spins or releases include; e Injury Loss of life (human, livestock, fish and wildlife) e Evacuations Property damage Air pollution e Surface or ground water pollution/contamination e Interruption of commerce and transportation Various considerations go into the impacts of a hazardous materials release, including method of release, the type of material, location of release, weather conditions, and time of dry. This makes it complicated to pinpoint definite impacts. it can still be ascertained that items found in the study area win have at least one of the impacts fisted above. The overall magnitude for hazardous material incidents is negligible. The vast majority of hazardous material incidents in the Eastem Region are minor spills with no significant impacts beyond localized cleanup. Of the 1,194 Eastern Region incidents in the NRC database betweenl990 and 202Z only 122 (35%) caused significant impacts. Those 122 significant incidents resulted in a total all evacuations, 52 injuries, 33 fatafitiea, and $21.7 million in property damages. Annualized over 32 years, that equates to an average of 3.8 significant incidents, 1.0 fatafities, 1.6 injuries, 0.4 evacuations, and $677,027 in property, damages annually. However, it is important to note that the NRC counts all injuries or damages resulting from an accident where hazardous materials were involved, whether or not the injuries or damages were caused by exposure to the hazardous substance. Closer analysis show that a majority of the injuries, fatalities, and property damages were from the physical impacts of the accident that caused the release, rather than the exposure to the hazardous materials themselves. VukarabfgtyA n e nerserst The Eastern Region has energy pipelines, railroad tracks which cony many types of hazardous materials, and state highways running through its boundaries. A variety of hazardous materials originating in the Region or elsewhere are transported along these routes and could be vulnerable to accidental spills. Consequences can vary depending an whether the spill affects a populated area vs an unpopulated but envimnmentalfy sensitive area. No specific hazardous materials routes are designated in Eastern Region; any routes used to carry hazardous materials introduce an element of risk of materials release to the area immediately adjacent to them The Region noted that many petroleum and other flammable products are transported by truck, and many have mixed payloads that don't list material amounts. Yeopt. Hazardous materials incidents can cause injuries, hospitalizations, and even fatalities to people nearby. People Frying near hazardous facilities and along transportation mutes may be at a higher risk of exposure, particularly those living or working downstream and downwind from such facilities. For example, a toxic bgal4t Pagel4l Mamma Eastern Res! in Hoard Midgatlan Mn Haard Id,nafinnf. and NO, -- Mntna Ea—Rnka, Hanrd Mldgation Nan H—H Hmdc.e.n and Nsk aasessment spill m a release of an airborne chemical near a populated area an lead to significant evacuations and have a high potential for loss of life. In addition to the !immediate health impacts of releases, a handful of studies have found long term health impacts such as increased incidence of certain cancers and birth defects among people living new certain chemical facitrim. However there has not been sufficient research done on the subject to allow detailed analysis. Property The impact of a feed hazardous facility, such as a chemical processing facility is typically loca0zed to the property where the incident occurs. The impact of a small spill (Le, liquid spill) may also be limited to the extent of the spill and remediated if needed. A blanket answer for potential impacts is hard to quantify, as different chemicals may present different impacts and issues. Property within a half mile in either direction of designated hazardous materials routes is at increased risk of impacts. While cleanup costs from major spills can be substantial, they do not typically cause significant long-term impacts to property. However, some larger incidents invohring pipelines, railroads, or explosive materials may cause significant and overwhelming damage to the surrounding communities. Oitfxof Foothill. end Li/dtmee There are 42 RMP facilities located throughout the Eastern Region. Some of these are discussed in more detail in the County Annexes. Yellowstone County has nine of these facilities, and Richland County has eight These two counties possess over 40%of the RMP facilities within the study area. The RMP facilities for each county in the Eastern Region are summarized in Table 4-37 below. Table 437 RMP Facilities in the Eastern Region OEM= - ON Hom Bi Ham Can 2 Carbon CarbonCoun 3 Dawson Ccunty 2 Dawson Rkhane 2 Fanon Fallon County 1 M<Coue Mccone County 2 Prairie Prairie Coun 1 Richland Richland County a Freid 4 Roosevelt Roosevelt Ccunn, 6 eillin s 2 Yenoastme Yenowztme County9 TattlI Total 42 Ernnorrty Potential losses an vary greatly for hazardous material incidents. For even a small incident there are cleanup and disposal costs. In a larger scale incident cleanup an be extensive and protracted. There can be deaths or injuries requiring doctor's visits, hospitalization, and disabling chronic injuries. Soil and water contamination can occur, necessitating costly remediatiort Evacuations can disrupt home and business activities. Large-scale incidents can easily reads $1 million or more in direct damages. Historic and Cultural Resources Historic and cultural facilities can be impacted by hazardous materials spills the same as other facilities or areas. Mnana Eastern Region Hazard Midgstbn Nan Hazard Identifiud'm and NA Ames , Natural Resource Hazardous material incidents may affect a small area at a regulated facility or cover a large area outside such a facility. Widespread effects occur when hazards contaminate the groundwater and eventually a potential county arjurisdiction s water supply, or they migrate to a major waterway or aquifer. Impacts on wildlife and natural resources an also be significant These types of widespread events may be more likely to occur during a transportation incident such as a pipeline spill, and can have far reaching and devastating impacts on the natural environment and habitats if they aowned new one of the several wildlife refuges in the Eastern Region planning area. Development TrnnAs Related to H®rds and Ridr Future development is expected to increase the number of people potentially exposed to the impacts of hazardous materials incident. The number of hazardous materials that are stored, used, and transported across the Region may continue to increase over the coming years if regional growth continues. Fil Summary The Eastern Region experiences multiple hazardous materials incidents each year, with different degrees of effect Based on the history of past occumences, there is a 100%chance that the Eastern Region will see a hazardous materials incident in arty given year, however programs in place for fixed hazardous facilities minimize risk The significance for hazardous material incident overall is Low. • Hazardous materials incidents can cause injuries, hospitalizations, and even fatalities to people nearby. In addition to the immediate health impacts of releases, a handful of studies have found long term health impacts such as increased incidence of certain cancers and birth defects among people living near certain chemical facilities. • The impact of a fixed hazardous faciity, such as a chemical processing facility is typically localized to the property where the incident occurs. The impact of a small spill maybe limited to the extent of the spill and mmediated if needed. • Potential losses can vary greatly for hazardous material incidents For even a small incident there are deanup and disposal costs In a larger scale incident dearmp can be extensive and protracted. • Yellowstone County has nine of these facilities, and Richland County has eight These two counties possess over 40%of the RMP facilities within the study area Related Hazards: Cyber- Attack, Human Conflict Transportation Accident Table 438 Risk Summary Trade•. Hanrdous Materials lnddants Eastern Riegion Big Hom ge Grass Big Hom County experienced 101 hazardous materials Inddnt between 1990 and 2022 This 7�- aunts for 9%of the total incident in the Eastem Ree Carbon ridget Joliet None ed Lod eCarter NomeCuster C' None Craw Tribe Low Nome Danish Low Scobry, Fiawina Danisi'CantydoesnothavegasorhaardwsNq id pipelines within County limit and has not reported an NRC hazardous materials incident during the past 32 year, Dawson Low Welt Glmdiw None Talton Law Pleena, Baker Fanon County has n mteniwa network of qas and hazardaas Gard icefines. Garfield Low Jordan Gefi td Count Fas mat resorted an NRC havrdoua maten.ds inc[dc-v d:l'v: the [32vears Golden Van Law " ate Lavine Nana mcc— Lon Gmk None Mussehhen Low Melstona Roundup Musselshell County has spans transmission fine and. no RMP facilities Powder River Med. Broadus Powder Raver Canyon ha experienced 66 NBC hazard�usmateriah incidenhin the last 32 ea Prairie Low Terry None Richland Med m Fairview,Sidney Richland County has an extensive network ofga,and hazardous fiquid pipelines, a large number of RMP facifitia and a history of hazmat inc'dentr. Roosevelt Mad-.. Won Point Papkt Roosevelt County has a moderate baton, of Baimik Culberson, Froid hazardous materials Incidents and the third highest rwmber of RMP facilities F the State. Rosebud Low C.Istiln,forw1h Nona Sheridan Lev Plentywood, Medi ins None Lake, outlook West Stillwater Lev Columbus None Treasure Low Hysham Treasure County has few gas hazardous liquid transmission Banes and few pnor hszmat incidents. Vaney Med m GkWow, Fort Peck Vaney County has not reported an NRC hazardous Nashu 0oh.Ln,materkls incident drrin the st 32 ea Wibaux High Wbaux None Yellowstone High BNingt Bmarh,icw, Laurel Yellowstone County has reported experienced more hazardous materials incidenhin the lest 32years than another Esatem Itecion coundes combined. 429 Landslide H—clif'Probl•m Description A landslide is a general tern for a variety of mass movement processes that generate a downslope movement of soil, rock and vegetation under gravitational influence. Landslides are a serious geologic hazard common to almost every state in the United States. It is estimated that nationally they cause up to $2 billion in damage and 25 to 50 deaths annually. Some landslides move slowly and cause damage gradually, whereas others move so rapidly that they can destroy property and take rives suddenly and unexpectedly. Gravity is the force driving landslide movement Factors that allow the force of gravity to overcome the resistance of earth material to landslide movement include saturation by water, steepening of slopes by erosion or cc ristmction, alternate freezing or thawing, earthquake shaking, and volcanic emptiom. Landsfides are typically associated with periods of heavy rainfall or rapid snow melt and tend to worsen the effects of flooding that often accompanies these events. In areas burned by forest and brush fires, a lower threshold of precipitation may initiate landslides, mckfall or other geological event. Landsfides are defined as a rapid snipping of a mass of earth or rock from a higher elevation to a lower level under the influence of gravity and water lubrication. More specifically, mckslides are the rapid downhill Mnaiu Ea— 49bn Heard Midgadon Nan Hazard Id-rxadan and Nsk Mnsment movement of large masses of rock with little or no hydraulic flow, similar to an avalanche. Water -saturated soil or day on a slope may slide downhill over a period of several hours. Earthflows of this type are usually not serious threats to rife because of their slow movement yet they can cause blockage of mads and do extensive damage to property. Gaagraphial Ana AffMad Areas that are generally pmne to landslide hazards include existing old landslides, the bases of steep slopes, the bases of drainage channels, and developed hillsides where leach -field septic systems are used. Areas that are typically considered safe from landslides include areas that have not moved in the past relatively flat -lying areas away from sudden changes in slope, and areas at the top or along ridges, set back from the tops of slopes. While landslides are infrequent event in Montana, they have occurred. The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) has spent substantial time stabilizing landslides throughout the State, focusing primarily on federal and State highways. The confidence of landslides ranges from probable to likely in the Eastern Region, as shown in Figure 4-40. The Montana Bureau of Mines and Geologys (MBMG) Landside Hazards Program aims to identify, map, and categorize areas across the State of Montana to better understand spatial distribution and causes of ground failure to help mitigate against landslide hazards. Figure 4-41 shows areas mapped byMBMG as susceptible to landslides, as well as areas where debris indicates landslide event have occurred in the last 1D0,000 and 250,000 years. - r- Ewtem Montana, in contrast to Western Montana, whicii is more mountainous and elevated, is exposed to a lower landslide risk Counties in the southern portion of the region like Carbon, Yellowstone, and Big Horn, where some tribal reservations are located, have more landslide areas mapped. There are also landslide areas mapped along the Missouri River valley within Garfield County. The Eastern Region's overall area affected is limited. ep i Few. i-l0 r.nl,6l.In..ntnn Cenflama Mennna Western Eastern Region Central Ron Region egi r. s �a.a u..ar ic.+anoi ae. a.ww Rpw.a-al MeriYn XM.N Miea[een Namine l4Yian WW6an W.Mrn Eastem Region Central Region RBgbn e0 I VAI, I fl—N,ointhe affecled—s. I Fs."n,y/lik.lihood of Oawrwra Although historical landslide occurrence data is limited it can be assumed that these geological processes will continue to occur and result in an —ional likelihood of occurrence in the future. Landslides and expansive soils may typically occur most often during wet climate cycles or following heavy rains, but in certain areas of the study area It is plausible to presume that destructive events have among a 10 and 100 percent chance of occurrence with the next year, or a recurrence interval of 10 years or less. Hence, landslides, rockfalls or debris f ows are predicted to occasionally occur. Heavy periods of precipitation or substantial development could have an influence on slope strength. Characteristically, there is a landsride/rockfall'season that correlates with enhanced freeze -thaw phases and wetter weather in the spring and summer. Wthin the Eastern Region all 23 counties and three Indian Reservations have a Landslide Annualized Frequency of 0.01, except Yellowstone and Stillwater counties. Although this is the lowest risk rating that the NRI categorizes, landslides can still be a detrimental and u—peded natural hazard if not taken into proper account The expected frequency results for the Eastern Region are shown in Figure 4A2 below. Ll o ............. o s Momana Fawn ft ion H ' Miti-- flan Montana i4o Region NwN Mldgaron Plan Huard Idm K,eao and Nsk Asassment Hurd Idmtifiaoon and Risk As — Climate Change Cansickmatlons Landslides or mudflovrs can be triggered by climatic events, especially periods of intense rainfall and runoff. Climate change appears to be increasing early spring rainfall (see Section 42.5 Drought, subsection Climem Change Cansidera ions, especially Figure 4-19). This trend is likely to contince for the foreseeable future and could amplify landslide hazards. In addition, the increased wildfire occurrence. expands the area affected by bum scan. Bum scar areas are especially prone to landslide and debris flows. Soils in these areas can become hydrophobic and dramatically increase rainfall runoff at the same time that slopes lack vegetation to stabilize soils. While this process is well known and has led to disastrous flooding and debris flows in other areas, it isnot dear that the issue has been explicitly studied in eastern Montana. This issue should be monitored in future HMPs. Pabsrrtisl 111agniasde anal 5--ity The extent of landslides and debris flow events within the Eastern Montana Region range from negligible to significant depending an the event While landslides and rodeslides can result in the destruction of infrastructure such as roadways, water, and sewer fines, electrical and telecommunications utilities and drainage where they are present the potential magnitude of landslides, rockfafl and debris flows would typically be isolated in most counties in the region. However even a small, isolated event has potential to dose state or US highways in the region that can result in long detours far days or weeks. With the added cost of detours, and the potential for rife safety impacts, some landslides could have greater costs. There is relatively limited potential for complete destruction of buildings and death and injury from landslides and debris flow. Landslides can be classified using the Alexander Scale, shown in Table 4-40. The smile is predicated on landslide debris impacting the built environment Based on the history the highest extent level expected within the planning area is level 5 (Very Serious), but this is likely to be isolated to limited areas in where maintenance is limited and wooden buildings, mofs, or porches are collapsed or disconnected from foundation. Table 4.40 Alexander Sate for Landslide Scale Damage 0 None Building n intact 1 Negligible HaWnecracks in walls ar structural members no distortion of structure or detachment of external architectural details 2 Light Buildings continue to be habitable, repair not ugent Settlement of foundations, distortion of structure. and inchnadon of vans are not sufficient to compromise overall stability. 3 Moderate Walk out of perpendicular by on ree or two degs orthere has been substantial racking Insim munilmember, or the foundations have settled during differential subsidence of at least 6 inches budding requires evacuation and rapid attention to re its continued life. 4 Serious Walls out of perpendicular by several degrees open cocks in wails; fracture afswctunl embers; fragmenadon of masonry, differential settlement of at least 10 inches ompmnlsing foundations floors may be Inclined by one or two degrees or mined by heave. Inmmal partition walls will need to be replaced; door and window, frames are too distorted to use occupants must be evacuated, and major repairs tamed out 5 Very Serieus Walk out of plumb by five ex six degrees mucture grossly duterted;differential settlement has seriously cracked flear, and wafts or caused major rotation or dewing of the building [wooden building, are detached completely from their foundations). Montana Eastern eagion Hazard Mlogatlon Han Hazard Idmtifiaem and Rsk--an, 11 Partite, walls and brick infii will have at lean partly collapsed; moats may have partially orc collapsed; asthea— porches, and patas may have been damaged more seriously than the pdndpal swcture itself. Occupants will need to be raHhoused on a long -tern basis, and rehab3trtion of the W living willprobably net be feasible 6 Partial Collapse Requires immediate evacuation of the accupants and the cordoning off of the site to prevent accidents with falling masonry. T raid Cella a Requbn daarmc, of thesite. The severity of landslides or rodalidas depends on the amount of material (sail, debris, ornodn) moves and where it stops moving (e.g. on roadway). Although the extent of the hazard is geographically small, the severity of landslides and mckfalls can be critical with potential to cause severe injuries, shutdown transportation corridors to critical infrastructure, and damage property. VulnweWHyAasammt The landslide Vulnerability Assessment identifies, or at least discusses, assets that are more likely to be exposed to landslide hazards and are susceptible to damage from that exposure. In this context assets are (1) people, (2) property, (3) critical facilities and lifelines, (4) the economy, (5) historicand cultural resources, and (6) natural resources. Exposure indicates interacting with landslide hazards, and likely to be exposed indicates a presence in areas deemed to be, especially likely to experience landslide hoards. Susceptible indicates a strong likelihood of damage from exposure to landslide hazards and is described in greater detail In Section 42.1, subsection titled Vulnerability Assessment Finally, vulnerability under future conditions is considered as it relates to both climate change and development The role of climate change in future vulnerability to landslide is discussed above in the section titled, Climate w Charge Considerations, while the effect of future development is considered below in the section titled Development Trends Related to Hazards and Risk Detailed data are not available to identify or analyze specific structures, facilities, or people at risk of landslide. However, Figure 4-43 depicts the NRI risk index rating for landslide at a county level Most of the Eastern Region is rated as a mixture of relatively moderate and low. The counties with a Landslide Risk Rating of nelativelymoderate are Big Hom, Carbon, Carter, Garfield, Powder River, Prairie, Roosevelt Stillwater, and Wibatu counties. The EasternMontana counties with a relativelylow landslide risk rating are Carter, Daniels, Dawson, Fallon, Golden Valley, McCune, Musselshell, Sheridan, Treasure, Valley, and Yellowstone counties. The one county in the Eastern Region with a few, rating is Richland County which borders North Dakota and contains more of a plains landscape. Figure 4-43 Risk Index Rating for Landslide by County Western Eastern Carnal ! - �. MAINIUMMaIEW ar1e"u"4 i People living in, traveling through or recreating in landslide areas are all potentially exposed to this hazard. There have been no recorded deaths or injuries due to landslides in Montana. However, people are conceivably susceptible to death or injury from these hazards, such as when traveling in a vehicle where rockfall has a higher confidence of occurring. The Eastern Region's elderly and people with disabilities and access and functional needs are both at greater risk to landslide hazards given it may be more difficult for these population groups to travel around a landslide hazard area during an event such as finding an alternative mute. This risk is also mostly likely to occur during spring or summer months following heavy rainfall and affect some of the more popular recreation areas in the Eastern Region, suds as Yellowstone County and Carbon County. Overall there is some vulnerability of people to landslide. P-R2 Landslides are more known for damaging structures. This happens in two general ways, 1) disruption of structural foundations roused by differential movement and deformation of the ground upon which the structure sits, and 2) physical impact of debris moving downiope against structures located in the travel path. Landslides have been known to create temporary dams in some locations, partially or fully blocking rivers at the use of the slide. These dams can subsequently burst as the pressure of the impounded water builds, leading to flood damage for structures and communities downstream as well. Within the Eastern Region, NRI data indicates that Carbon and Stillwater counties have expected annual loss ratings due to landslides that are relatively high This is followed by Carter, Garfield, McCune, Powder River, Rosebud, and Yellowstone counties have a relatively moderate estimation of annualized losses due to landslide damages. The other 12 counties in the Eastem Region have a relatively low expected annual loss to landslide hazards. The risk for each county in the Eastern Region is detailed in Figure 4d4 below. Montana Eastern Region Hann Mitigation Ran HwN Idanufuid- and Rsk Assessment Figure 4-44 NRl Expected Annual Loss Rating Montana Eastern Region Austin, r......, Eastern -- F t. I -- I I — ��-ENPM C G— rwaA.ru.iew �xa..argw a�ww,wasa.r eo,v r aw...�a.rar �'ra.e ra+awa: crux fittlmlF 7ltiesardLf/e— Transportation systems are usually the most unprotected critical facility type in the region to rockfaq landslide and debris lbw incidents. Residentsand visitors alike are impacted when Wads are damaged by rockfall and landslides. The loss of transportation networks could potentially cause secondary damage to the overall regions infrastructure, including revenue, transportation availability, emergency response mechanisms and other essential capabilities by preventing the means of these resources from activating or moving between locations. Pipelines and other buried infrastructure are notably susceptible to extension, bending, and compression used by ground deformation Failure of any component along the pipeline cos result in failure to deliver service over a large region Once broken, transmission of the commodity through the pipeline ceases, whids ,an have catastrophic repercussions down the line; loss of power to critical facilities such as hospitals, impaired disposal of sewage, contamination of water supplies, disruption of all forms of transportation, release of flammable fuels, and so an Therefore, the overall impact of pipeline failures, including secondary failure of systems that depend on pipelines, can be much greater than the impact of individual building failures. Y Losses as a result of geologic hazards can result in economic damages sustained to buildings and property. These losses can also result in indirect losses, such as lowered pmperly values in hazard exposure areas, the extended closing of businesses that are damaged, and as a result lost wages and revenue if workers are not able to go to work Tourism ran also be interrupted. aizi 4.1a Montana E—ni Peel. Hand Midgadon non 11araN Idsshtifiuo'. aM Nsk Assasmenm M.am Ias R•gi. Hxad Mldgation non IW Id.6flosu.wd Risk—iismwnt Hirtwic and Cultural Rewww Landskdes can damage a destroy historic or cultural sites, just like any other property. The biggest impact would likely be on older properties such as wooden or masonry buildings, though reinforced masonry structures would be much more resilient during these types of incidents. Noeunf Resewrtes Landslides and other gsolugic hazards are considered a natural process, however, they can have varying impacts to the natural environment, with the potential to permanently alter the natural landscape. For example, landslide effects on the enironment and natural resources could be very destructive depending on the size of the landslide event and secondary/cascading effects from an event (eg, mckfdq. Additionally, rockfalls to rivers on cause blockages causing flooding, damage rivers or streams, potentially harming water quality, fisheries, and spawning habitat Also, hillsides that provide wildlife habitat on be lost for prolonged periods of time. DeueiopmentT ids Related to Hize nds and Risk In general, the Eastern Region has a lower risk for landslide and other geological hazards in comparison to the entire state o(Montna. For most of the geologic hazards profiled, the greatest risk is along the Missouri River where geography makes processes such as landslides and mudflows more likely. As counties such as Ghder and Cascade see growth in population and housing units the exposure could increase as well unless careful consideration of landslide hazards is included in land use decisions. Steps to mitigate these risks should be taken as the Eastern Region accommodates future gmwth, such as mapping of hazard areas, adoption and enforcement of engineering and building codes for soil hazards, and ordinances to limit development on steep slopes. • Although historical landslide occurrence data is limited it an be assumed that these geological processes will continue to occur occasionally in the future but the overall risk to landslides is law. People exposed to landslide hazards are most at risk to death or injury from these hazards. This includes not only people residing in areas prone to landslides but also outdoor recreationists and travelers in the region. • Within the Eastern Region, Carbon, and Stillwater both have an expected annual loss rating due to landslides of relatively high. Carbon and Stillwater counties has an expected annual loss rating due to landslides of relatively high. Meanwhile Carter, Garfield, McCone, Powder River, Rosebud, and Yellowstone counties have a relatively moderate estimation of annualized losses due to landslide damages. • Losses as a result of geologic hazards an result in economic damages sustained to buildings and property. • Transportation systems are usually the most unprotected critical facility type in the region to rockfall, landslide and debris flow incidents. Residents and visitors alike are impacted when roads are damaged by mckfall and landslides. • Related Hazards: Earthquake, Floods, Severe Summer Weather, Wildfire Table 4.41 Risk Summary Tabla: landdide Eastern R Low None B Ham Coen law Haig., Lodge Goss None Carbon County Medium Bearcreelt Bridget, Unincarp.rted areas with greater Joliet Fromberg, Red topographical relief my be moe Lode ble. Marra Eanem pagi. HaaM Wdaad. Mn Ward Idendfiud. and Nik ka.vnem Cainercounly tar Ekd lm Nona CusterCwn Low hansy,Miles Cier None Crow Tube Medih.w None Daniels County Law Scoby, Nanile Dulds County has reported landslide events following heavy and Roar . Davaan County Lae Ridley, Glndive County has reported landslide evens fo0mAng heavy inn and floockno. Falan Court Low Pleves, Baker N. Garfield Court Lai Jordan None Gold. Valley Coanty Lon RyS.t,Lavku Nome Wan Ceenty Low Circle None Musselshell County Low Win— None P—derRivaeCourity Madinn 8roadw None Prairie County law Terry None Rkhlnd[oun tar Fairview Slain Nine Raoseveh County _ Lao .. Wolf Point Poplar, Bifluile, C01her.m, Froid None Rosebud County Low Colsui F None Shedd. County Low Plenty s..it Medime L.k.,Oudook.Westby None S6*~Ccun Medlin [.Iambus None Treasure Can Lae Hynharn None ValleyCounty Low Glasgow, Fort Peck N.hua,O ens None Wbaux C.n Madinm Wibaux 1 None YelawMeCounty Lee B81ngs, Broadview, L.- Unincaeporrted areas of with more tapagnPhy to the southwest my bemaresw 'Netolandsides. 4.2.10 Sawn Summer Weather HerardlPeeblem Description For this plan, severe summer weather in Montana includes extreme heat events, hail, heavy rain, and lightning. A brief desorption of these weather phenomena is presented below. More information an thunderstorm winds, high winds, and microbursts can be found in 42.13 Tornadoes & Windstorms. Extrerme Heat Extreme heat occurs from a combination of high temperatures (significantly above normal) and high humidity. At certain levels, the human body cannot maintain proper internal temperatures and may experience heat stroke. The NWS heat index (Figure 4.45) is a measure of what the temperature feels like to the human body when relative humidity is combined with the air temperature, in shade conditions. In most of the United States, extreme heat is defined as a long period (2 to 3 days) of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees. It is generally a prolonged period of excessively hat weather when temperatures are above average. Montana has less extreme heat risks than most of other states, and MT DES defines extreme heat when there are approximately five days par year of dangerous heat events that can lead to heat -related illnesses and death to wlnemble populations. In extreme heat evaporation is slowed and the body must work extra hard to maintain a normd temperature This can lead to health impacts by overworking the human body. Extreme heat alien results in the highest numberof annual deaths among Al weother-ralated hazards. Figure 4-45 NWS Hnat Index and Potential for Health Effects Tenmp—dim, ('Fl 40 W 8/ 83 85 88 91 94 97 101 4051W III 11N 1 4rY'' ll� 45 80 82 84 87 89 93 96 100,hflil tr9'11a 119 124 50 81 93 85 58 91 95 99 103 1C8 113 11R 12a 131 1l7 55 81 84 88 09 93 97 101 106 112 717 124 !30 1:17 60 82 84 98 91 95 1001705 110 116 1Z3 120 1'f1 85 82 85 89 93 98 103 106 114 121 `128 I:» 70 83 86 90 95 100 105 112 119-126 134 75 84 88 92 97 103 109 116 124 132 80 84 89 94 100 106 113 121 .129 85 85 90 96 102 110 1176 135. 90 86 91 98 '105 113 122 31 95 86 93 100 .lea 117'01F 100 87 95 103 �112 121 13Z Likelihood of Heat Disorders with Prolonged Exposure andfnr Strenuous Attivih Caution . Extreme Caution ■ Danger ■ Extreme Danger w.R.d own smo•rwM...n«ia.4wram.'d..i�d� •erH�hiNa••I••dam�•a•� u.vier�romu�..ma,.d.,.arnhenue...o...weq w m hs•r. Heft Hail farms when updrafts tarty raindrops into extremely cold areas of the atmosphere where the drops freeze into ire Hail falls when it becomes heavy enough to overcome the strength of the updraft and is pulled by gravity towards the earth The process of failing, thawing, moving up into the updraft and refreezing before falling again may repeat many times, increasing the size of the hailstone. The severity of hail is often measured in inches and referred to by objects of similar size (Table 4-42). Hailstones are usually less than two inches in diameter but have been reported much larger and may fall at speeds of up to 120 mph Severe hail is classified as hail 1-inch in diameter or large. Hall is typically associated with thunderstorms and occurs in the summer months in the Eastern Region. Table 44Z Hail Diameter and Common Description oso Marble moth ball 0.75 Penury 08B Nickel iD0 Duaner 125 Hall d.IIw M.am rasa. Ragl. Head MiuPua. Plan Wised Idetifimd. and Nsk Axmuxwm 150 Walnut ping fang beg 1.75 Golf bat 2DD Hen egg 250 T.nk bat 2.75 Barebal 3D0 Tea sup 4D0 Softball 450 G.,fmlt Data attained from hnorl/www.soerroaa.aov/mist/bbies/ha0da.hbn Heavy Rain Heavy rain is typically associated with thunderstorm conditions and on result in flash flooding. Rainfall severity is typically measured in inches of rainfall or inches or rainfall per hour. In Central Montana, more than 0.1' of rain per hour is considered moderate, and more than 03' per how is considered heavy rain. The reviewed history of heavy min events in the Eastern Region of Montana mentions roads and ditches being Hooded due to heavy rains, but there was no repeated location given in the datmet On occasion, heavy rains and melting.srxlw have been reported to cause icejams and flash flooding. It is rarely reported that flash floods muse an accumulation of water in stna:tures in the planning area Lighenbrg Lightning is an electrical dachage that results from the buildup of positive and negative charges within a thunderstorm and the earths surface. When the buildup becomes strong enough lightning appears as a 'bolt' This visible electrical discharge produced by a thunderstorm can occur within or between clouds, between the cloud and air, between a cloud and the ground or between the ground and a cloud. Cloud -to -ground lightning is the most damaging and dangerous type of lightning, though it is also less common It frequently strikes away from the rain care, either ahead or behind the thunderstomt and on strike 5-10 miles from the storm in areas that most people do not comider to be a threat Lightning's electrical charge and intense heat can electrocute on contact split tree; ignite fires, and cause electrical failures. The severity of lightning can be measured on a scale of lightning activity level (Table 4-43). Table 4-43 lightning Threat Levels Fxtnm• 'An Estnma Thnet W Life and Pmp dy from Lightning: • Wahkh 12 miter of a location, a moderate likelihood of CG lightning for 50% thunderstorm pmbabify),with samhc capable of s .4-CG lightning. • AND/OR- high Rkeihaod of CG lightning (or 60% to 70% thunderstorm probabEy), with norms capable of frequent CG ightni q. • AND/OR every high likelihood of CG lightning (or 9D%ta 90% thundentom pmbabifty), High •A High Threat to UH and prop" from L"ghtni q.' • Whthkhl2milesofahxation,alawfkeihood of CGlightnmg(or3D%w40%thunderstorm probability), wimp eiamw capable al excessive CG lightning. • AND/OR_,modud,kkefhoodofCGfghtning(or50%thumfentompmbabdy),wmh Mwnana Eastem Poq(on Harnrd Mitgatlon f4an Huartl Itlmtlfiudon antl llisk AnnRHnt • AND/OR -a high I:knli!ro.f d Cf, Gyhtnitg ;orfilay to 7016 th,+drrronn urobabB'ny). �.iM norms cawbla of nucaslond CG Fgnt,ng Modem 'A Mvdwa•.. ThnRlo lily and 7roparly from Liohbdn9.' • WMh 12 miles of a I —Son, aver lcnRkAihood of CG Bghtn,ng(a, 10% 10 20% thunderstorm pmbability),,ith storms capable of exces4w CG lightning. • AND/OR_a low likahhood of CG 091ttning(w30% to 4psg thundentam probability). wth storms capable of frega ont CG lightning. • AND/Ofl_a moderate likelihood of CG 6ghtoing(w M thunderstorm probability), with stormsca ble of wcasiond CGG hmin . Low 'A l os�Thnatto Ufa and PropartybI, U9Mrdng: • W,thn 12 miles of a location, a very law fikeffhood of CG lightning (or, 10%10 2M thunderstorm probabllty), pith storms capable of frequent CG Bghming • AND/OR-. low likelihood of CG 6ghtning(w 309L to 40%thunderstorm probabifiry), rdtn stopscar ble of.,,, ,CG6 htnn Wry low -A Vary Low Threat to Uf. and "am from Ughtnhg' • Wshin 12 miles of a location, a very law lkeflhood of CG lightning far 10i6 to 20% thunden,1— bola ,with storms a able of occasionalCG li htnn . Non- 'No Dne•mabla ThnK to Life and fhcp.rty from Lightning.' Threatening Within 12 miles of.1—tiw.e Mrannnmalconddons do not support CG lightning. Ii42ir • Wth cloud-to-graund(CG) lightning, everysb&e fs potentially l.tnal • Occasional-CG lightning at the rate of 1 to 3 flaahas par mhvt, • Frequent -CG lightning at the rate of 4 to 11 flashes par minute • Excessive- CG lightning rate of 12 flashes or mare per minute Mentana Eam, Region Hazard Midg,bon Nan Hazard Idmufiudon and..k Auesvnm G.M.phiol Ana Affected The geographic extent of summer weather is extensive. The entire Eastern Region is vulnerable to experiencing severe summer weather, but there are regional variations apparent when looking at the frequency of events. Some types of hazards, such as extreme heat events, occur an a regional scale and typically impact several or all counties in the Eastern Region planning area at once. Other hazards, such as lightning, hail, and heavy rain, impact more local areas. Lightning tends to strike a single point and it is rare for lightning to strike people or property multiple times in one storm event Hail and heavy min generally occur in small pockets of an accompanying storm. Figure 4-46 below shows the history of hail events in the Eastern Region. Fiaun a-a6 Hall Fenb lire Man4nfry epbn 119aa-goel) w•slem Region central Raglon r- la e • • � 6ro,wr• 0 w•a� or� O-• ....... ,...� O rw.,... �......•.. Montana Eamon eagion Hand Mitpatlon Ran Hazard Idrnti fixab- am NA Aunsmant past Orcterertras The National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEq database was used to gather information an historic severe summerweather events in the Eastern Region of Montana. The NCFI data is a comprehensive list of oceanic atmospheric, and geophysical data across the United States and aggregated by county and zone. It is important to note that weather events that occurted on Crow Tribe and North Cheyenne Tribe are also included in the dataset tables down below. However, instead of indwidual records, tribal data records were grouped into the closest/nearest County. The NCH dataset contains information on hail events from 1955 to March of 2022, in addition to lightning, heavy rain. and excessive heat events from 1996 to March of 2022. Table 4.44 summarizes the data from NCEI. It is important to note that not all severe summerweather events get reported by the NCF1 and losses are estimates, therefore, actual losses may be higher than those reported below. Based on this data, hail is the most frequently orcuring and damaging severe summer weather event in the Eastern Region. Excessive heat and lightning events have resulted in casualties. Excessive heat events had no reported property or crop damages in the NCEI dataset Table 4-44 Summary of Loseas by Hanrd in the Eastern Region, 1996-2022 Death, Injw*a Property L... Crop I... D.ya �Ith E_ Total Event, Esc. —Heat 1 0 4 7 Han 0 S $37580100 $31954 1 S 62 He Ran 0 0 52000 67 15a L htnin S 12 S 64100 21 21 Total 6 17 f 31 6s0 zoo S 31 9f M t 100 S 40 Soura..a I There are variations in losses and frequency of hazards across the Eastern Region According to the NCEI database, Yellowstone and Valley counties experienced significantly more hail events than the rest of the planning area. Valley County also experienced the greatest number of reported heavy rain events in the planning area, followed by Carbon County. Twelve counties have reported previous lightening events. Sir counties have documented excessive heat events. Table 44S and Figure 447 display the summary of total severe weather events by county. Table 44S Summary of Sven Summer Weather Events by County in the FAAann Region, 1996- 2022 Now.. Exmein Me., Mail HUW Rain lightnbg 0117. 4,1 _ MpNna Dr— Pa9ion Hanrd Keg— flan Huard Idmdfiredm and Nak Au. —I Mm4re Eastem Re9;en Hazard Mitigadon flan Huard Idendfiudon and Nsk Anexment Eamai-Hew Hail Haavy Ran lighting Figure 4.47 Summary of Sw,m Summer Weather Events by County in the Eastem Region Numberof Events D So 1. 150 200 250 30D 350 400 450 500 Grbon County tartar County Custer County Dankls County e� Daasancounty hlbn County Garfield County .. Waey Couwy a�saeaa�eal Mccone County Musselshell County Powder River County Prairie County M�lp Richland Count' Roosevekcounty Rosebud County Sheddan County sew¢ stNwatercounry eeaseeeeraseee�eo Treasureeounry a Wiley County _ Wheatlznd County ao VAbam County �1 Yelbwstoce Cwnry ereaa� 0 •Hail •Heald Rain �Uahtnirg Source: NCU Graph bywSP USA There are also vadatiom between counties in the Eastern Region in terms of losses from severe summer weather wants. A summary of losses reported by the NCEI dataset by county is displayed in Table 446 and Figure 4d8. Based on this data, Valley County has experienced both the greatest property loss and crop loss from severe summer weather wants. All crop losses and nearly all property losses are due to hail wants in the Eastern Region, There have also been 17 reported injuries due to hail and lightning, and five deaths due to lightning in the Eastern Region. Figure 4.48 Summary of Severe Summer Weather Events by County in the Eastern Region Ngsam county { wrwn c;x,mv Carter County CurterC—y Daniels County Damon County FAD,County Gadield County Golden VAWC,uwy Wcone County Musselshell County Powder Rive County Prairie county I Rkhbnd County Rooseveh County Rosebud County Shedd -Comity Stdiwater County Treasure County Valleytounty wheatland Cwnry V au.County I Yellow —County I volip"5��9� Source: NCD, Graph by WSP USA The NCEI dataset reports details on seeeral of the severe summer weather wants in the Eastern Region: July 4, 1998 (Yellowstone County): Several reports of hail up to 1.75 inches in diameter were reported in and around Billings from spotters, amateur radio operators and law enforcement The hail severely ManUna Eanern Replan Haurd Midgatkl Plan Monona Eastem Pegion.—M Mibpdon flan Haaard Iderldfiudm uM Pick Assesvnent IUvaM Idmdfiradm ant Nsk Asswenent Table 446 Summary of Woes by County in the Esstam Region teethe Inlunw Prop tans Crop too MEEK ���f�iRLR77 NEESE = s—NCEI damaged several cars and mofs. The hail also mused heavy damage to crops in the Billings area. The property and crop losses of this went were S4,0D0,000 and $1,000,000 respectively. July 31, 1998 (Yellowstone County): Numerous observations, of large hail were reported by spotters, amateur radio operators and NWS personnel. The hail damaged several vehicles in the Billings area, and also caused heavy damage to crops This went resulted in $8,000,000 of property losses and S1,G00,000 of crop losses. June 25, 1999 (Custer County): A 14-year-old boy was struck and killed by lightning while standing on a front tire of a tractor in a field. May 16, 2001 (Rosebud County) Three men suffered minor injuries when lightning struck their truck as they were crack sealing on Interstate 94. e June 16, 2007 (Valley County): During the late afternoon and evening of June 16, 2007, a high precipitation supelcell thunderstorm tracked from across northern Montana,just to the north of awarm front This was the most devastating hailstorm to affect the area since at least 199- and prompted 22 ere thunderstorm and 6 tomado warnings in Glasgow county warning area. Properties such as homes, vehicles and businesses suffered severe damage. Trees were uprooted. Horses and rattle were injured by hail and wind, so were wildlife such as birds and small animals. Acres of crops such as alfalfa, wheat and corn were also completely destroyed. This event results in $8,000,000 of property losses and $1S,000,000 of crop losses. According to the NCEI database, the overall estimated damage in this want Including hail and wind damage, as well as the subsequent flooding; is estimated to be $342 million June 16,2010(Valley County): Astrorg system ejecting out of the central Rockies brought heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms to the area during the wering. This e0iif'6de produced an EF1 tornado in ` northern McCone County and a microbulst in eastern Roosevelt County that killed one person near Fmid, Monaca. This event also caused $2,000 of property damage. fse peencyAkiiiihowofommrtn The frequency of severe summer weather wants in the Eastern Region is ranked as highly likely. All counties in the planning area are likely to experience a sweet summer harard yearly. Since 1955, 5,240 severe summer weather events over 1,100 days have been recorded in the Eastern Region. As discussed above, there are variations in frequency and swerity of damage from severe summer weather across the Eastern Region Several few counties in the Eastem Region, including counties of Valley, Powder River, Yellowstone, Rosebud, Carter, and Garfield had highest exposure to severe weather in the 2018 SHMP. As shown above in the NCEI data demonstrated, Valley and Yellowstone Counties experience a higher frequency of reported events than the rest of the counties in the Eastern Region. Extreme heat is uncommon in the Eastern Region. In the 27 years from 1996-211222, one extreme heat went has occurred in five countles in the Eastern Regan: Daniels, Garfield, Richland, Roosevelt and Valley counties. Only Dawson County has experienced two extreme heat wants in the same time period. All of these counties are in the northern end of the Eastern Region. It is probable that extreme heat is most likely to occur in the northern part of the Eastern Region. While there is some variation between counties in Eastem Region all counties are likely to eperience at least one hail event per year. Counties such as Wheatland and Treasure averages less than two extreme hail events per year, while some counties, such as Yellowstone and Valley [aunties, average more than slot hail wants per year. Figure 4-49 displays the trend of hail events by year in the Eastern Region from 1955 to 2021, showing a sharp increase in hail wants in recent years. Heavy rain events occur in all Eastern Region Counties The frequency of heavy rain wants ranges from once per 26 years (Golden Valley and Musselshell Counties) to once par 12 years (Valley County). Valley County experiences nearly twice as many heavy rainfall events (1996-20221 than any other county in the region (fable 4dS). Pwalot3z.-;..... � ibge{a-t Mprtana EisWn Re9im Haab Mitlgatbn Pbn HaUrd Idmdr<adm antl Pisk assenmmt All parts of the Eastern Region expedence lightning, though only six counties have reported damaging Iighming events from 1996-2022 and none has reported more than two damaging lightning events in this 26-year period (Table 4-45), This could indicate a trend in the lightning hazard, or perhaps inconsistent and incomplete reporting of lightning events in the NCEI database. figure 4.49 Hail Events by Year in the East— Region (1955-2021) Soo rSo a00 a� � zoo ! • 15a �..�.......�. 100 •..........�.-` •• •• e r'�•~_•M_'Y�•••~•�MJ•_•••••• M 055 1965 075 1985 1995 2005 2015 20n Year Swrtc N E6 Oran b7 The figwes hdow depict annualized (requency of hail and lightning at a county level based on the NRI. The NRI data shows dnmadcally higher hail frequency throughout the Eastern Region compared to the Western and Central Regions. This difference between regions is confirmed in the NCH data charted in Figure 4-49, when compared to equivalent figures in the Central Region and Western Region base reports. . - Ppe(4•t3 Rp�n a-sa NW--iud 1.,u al..a Evmu by County Western CeMnl Ea Raglan Region R, . ,am.ost ®nn•t1s �tr I� •M-iat {iqun 4al NglRmualiatl fre9u•rcy n1110irminq [x•nn by Wunry Western Fa Region Central it urea• ""- _ jas Fsn car-<i 199 ta.at 1Mla 1 � ub-Nu � uos•a:h .. 1 Marna Easum Wyim 14 a ,d Mi6pban Ran tlaraN idmii Udun atd aisx Annrment cYrrub ch regs cowd—dorl• The planning area is warming due to dimate change and even comervative estimates indicate the trend will continue and even accelerate in the future. Increasing exposure to extreme heat is described as the greatest concern far human health in the 2021 Montana Climate Change and Human Health study. This study documented statewide average temperatures have increased 2-3 "F from the 65-year period from 1950- 2015 and are projected to increase 4-6 BF by 2069 relative to average temperatures 1971-2000, roughly 65 years of warming. The Montana Climate Change and Human Health study provides state-wide estimates, but states that charges between climate divisions are slight Seasonalfy, temperature increases were greatest in summer and winter (Figure 4-52), with August having the greatest average temperature increase n all climate divisions. Figure 4-52 Observed Avenge SummerTemperabne, 1895.2020 3 E 1= a 6-year Period aoU np,esmt summer avenge bmpUtun fa a spatl6c lea• ears an Syear avenges of wmmer trmpenwra W rx hwie0nUl fine is Ne avenge wmmar UmpxaWm brill yvR 1995202a. Fgurt adapted I-2aa.0. SUU Eli —Summaries, —Una hap �/autewmnuriesnocury/Aapmr/mV Exposure to extreme heat will increase due to dimate change, heat -related health impacts will increase, but it is useful to keep the situation in perspective; the fifth National Climate Assessment notes that reme heat in the Northern Great Plains region remains modest relative to much of the country. The NRI rates the planning area as having a relatively(ow or very Iow risk of Heat Wave impacts for current conditions. Even under future warming scenarios, it appears unlikely the NRI ratings will change dramatically. Hail is presently a relatively low impact hazard according to the National Risk Assessment and little is known about how it will] be affected by dimate change. The 2022 NOA4 Climate Summary for Montana acknowledges that hail exists in Montana The Fifth National Climate Assessment includes projections of Montana Eastem.,ion HaraN Mivaadm Ran —M Id,rer.um and Wsk -- Montana Duero eras;-- Miyadon Ran HaraN Mmnfiuum antl Wsk Assnsment large hail increasing in frequency and season length throughout the Northern Great Plains. The 2021 Montana Climate Change and Human Health report mentions hail three times, acknowledging it exists, that I can damage sops, and that the link between severe summer storms and climate change is not well understood or easily predicted, though there is a solid physics based sinkage between the two. Hal can be an extremely damaging hazard and the linkages with climate change are vrorthy of monitoring in future HMP updates. To date, climate change has not increased the frequency or severity of heavy rain and it is unclear if it will in the future. Increasing rainfall intensity is a commonly cited impact of dimate change. However, neither the 2021 Montana Climate Change and Human Health study, the Fifth National Climate Assessment or NOAXs 2022 Climate Summary address rainfall (or hail) intensity directly. As described in Section 4.2.7 Flooding, subsection Climate Change Considerations, multiple Sources document spring rainfall has increased slightly in total amount and/or is projected to increase substantially in the future. However, none of these sources document an observed or projected climate -change caused increase in heavy rainfall. Lightning is another summer -weather hazard that is relatively modest in scale. The NRI rates counties in the planning area either relatively low or very low for lightning risk There are presently no data or studies that document lightning is increasing in the planning area, Likewise, no projections exist to suggest the hazard is likely to increase or decrease in the future due to climate change. The 2022 NOAA Climate Summary acknowledges that lightning exists. The Fifth National Climate Assessment mentions lightning once, as a potential source of ignition forwildfire. The 2021 Montana Climate Change and Human Health study states both that lightning exists in the planning area and that it is a potential source of ignition of wildfire. Potential impacts of severe summer weather hazards are discussed in the Vulnerability subsection of this hazard profile, as well as the impacts of population changes and development trends. Current variability in vulnerability byjurisdiction, based on existing conditions, is discussed in these sections and jurisdictional annexes, Due to the uncertainty with climate change on severe summerweather, it is not possible to define with further specificity the impacts and variability related to climate change on eachjurisdiction within the Region. Future updates to this plan should revisit this topic as scientific knowledge progresses and note any trends that emerge. Pots Magnitude rod severity As mentioned in the 2018 SHMP, severe summer weather an cause damage to buildings, homes, and other property but rarely cause death, serious injury, or long-lasting health effects. Straight-line winds are responsible far most thunderstorm damage. The NWS reports that severe summer weather has caused $51.5 million in property damage and $263 million in crop damage over the past 60 years in the State. Eight deaths and 31 injuries were attributed to lightning strikes. Across the country, large hail results in nearly $l billion in damage annually to property and crops. In the Eastern Region alone, 6 fatalities, 17 injuries, $31,650,200 in property damages, and $31,954,000 crop damages have been recorded since 1955. The individual scales for each severe summer weather hazards are summarized in the beginning of this chapter. W&—.biBtyA—.d The severe summer weather Vulnsrn erobifityAssesent identifies, or at least dissse essi ats that re in a high hasard area forsewre summer weather and are susceptible to damage from that exposure. In this context, assets are (1) people, (2) property, (3) critical fadlitioe and lifelines, (4) the emrromy, (5) historic and cultural resources, and (6) natural eosou= Exposure indicates interacting with eevwe summer weather hazards, and likely to be exposed indicates is presence in ones deemed to be Mmtana Eastern Pagim Hourd Mit,.c.n Ran Huard Idmufiuum and Wsk Ass —art especially likely to experience severe summer weather hazards. Susceptible indicates a strong likelihood of damage from exposure to seven summer weather hazards and is described in greater detail in Section 42 Homrd Pmrdc , subsection 42.1 Prof -de Methodology, subsection VufnenbiliftyAss—riz nt. Finally, vulnerability undw future conditions is coruidered shove as it relates to dimate change and below as it ni to development Figure 4-53 and Figure 4-54 illustrates the relative Risk Index (R rating to hail and lightning events for Montana counties based on data in the NRI. The RI calculation takes into account various factors, including the expected annual losses fmm Chase events, social vulnerability, and community resilience in each county awls Montana Most counties in the region have a very low to moderate rating; none have a high or very high RI rating. lipua a -a Hnt alak W. xaana car Has ' our Central Al people are potentially susceptible to injury or possibly death from summer weather. Some groups, such as the elderly, young children, outdoor workers, and people with respiratory illnesses or weakened immune systems are typically the most susceptible to especially extreme heat especially if they lack access to air onditioning or do not have adequate breaks for water and to refuel. Outdoor enthusiasts and workers are most likely to be caught outdoors and exposed to hail and lightning; this may include outdoor workers an farms or working in the ail and gas fields in the far eastern portion of the Eastern Region. Young children playing outdoors are also a concern. Lastly, unhouwd persons are more vulnerable to heavy rain, especially if they inhabit floodplain areas prone to flash flooding. Most of the planning participants noted that severe summer weather events do have greater impacts on their seniors, young children, outdoor workers, and individuals with health conditions. Property Individual storms have a limited exrent but over time all outdoor property is tkelyto be exposed to heavy rain, extreme heat and hail. Lightning typically strikes the highest objects in an area but can cause hazardous power surges that extend much further. Lightning strikes can also start fires. The secondary effects of fire are discussed in the section below titled Wildfire. Some property is especially susceptible to damage. Houses and cars have a reputation for receiving expensive -to -repair damage from hail events. Electzical equipment is often susceptible to the effects of lightning far from the strike location. Lightning can cause power outages with potentially serious secondary effects. Susceptibility of property to heat and heavy rain is less of a problem in the planning area. Heat can expand metal and cause problems with infrastructure. Heavyrain can damage foundations, especiallywhere water is allowed to accumulate near a foundation rather than being channeled away. Secondary effects of heavy rain include flash flooding and are discussed in the section above titled Flooding. Despite the hazards of heat and heavy rain, there are no reported property damages from excessive heat or heavy rain in the planning area. Critical Facilities and Lif lines All infrastructure and critical facilities located outdoors are similarly exposed to heat and hail. Lightning typically strikes the highest objects in an area but can cause hazardous power surges that extend throughout electrical circuits. Infrastructure can be susceptible to damage from extreme heat Heat expands roadbuilding materials and cn use road surfaces to crack Power infrastructure is especially susceptible to heat Heat expands above- ground power lines, causing them to lengthen and sag. Sagging power lines are a well-knawn fire hazard and w e at least partially at fault for recent catastrophic fires in California and Colorado. A mitigation technique in certain states is to simply tum off power distribution during these times. Heat also reduces the efficiency of power generation, transmission, and distribution. This happens at the same time that demand peaks due largely to the increased use of air conditioners. The result of this puts stress on the power delivery system The full range of heat effects on power infrastructure is complex and far reaching. -_ ....... ....... _ .._. -..., _. �.._..._ ..... _._......... ......_._..... _..._,.._..... local ecanamlas. Figure 4-55 and Fgura 4-56 illustrate the relative risk of Expected Annual Loss (EAL) rating due to hail and lightning for Montana counties based on data in the NRL For hail, most counties in the region have a very low to relatively low EAL rating. Yellowstone has a relatively moderate rating. For lightning, the majority of the Counties have a very law to relatively low rating. Big Horn and Custer Counties have a relatively moderate rating. Yellowstone County has a relatively high rating. For The EAL calculation takes into account agriculture value exposed to hail and lightning, annualized frequency for hail and lightning, and historical losses. npwe 4as NN Nxa fxp�cM Annuxl lxxx nxUnq Wnhm Fistem R bn Central Regan R.0- CM— ra.nax+..whw a..a (:-:] � uorra aauvc Iaa�E9W tapir ]9h 1 rm.ara A..ara.w•o � �'w� Swcr. nPo FfY.A xo.•nEv 15t L.r—H rwwr sb••sw v.v cexara. amour __-1 x,Ywt lu v.rtd Notrraf Reaouras Vegetation such as trees, caps, and landscape are vulnerable to extreme heat events. Similarly, hail has been documented to cause significant crop damage in the planning area and was also dommented to break branches off trees. The most significant crop damages reported by the NCEI occurred in Yellowstone and Valley counties. Lightning has also been documented to strike trees and cause fires, which can impact vegetation and crops. Deselaun—t Trends Related to Ham and Risk There are no dear trends that recent development has changed vulnerability to severe summer weather. Nor is it evident that future development charges will affect vulnerablity to severe summer weather. In most cases existing development in older and more rural towns will continue to be more susceptible to weather hazards. Whereas new development that is built to mment code should he better designed to withstand the effects of severe summer weather. Wrr Summary The hazard significance of severe summer weather (excessive heat, hail, heavy rain, and lightning) in the Eastem Region is ranked as high. The entire Eastern Region an be impacted by severe summerweather, therefore, the geographic extent is rated as rxt.-hr. • 1,100 days ofsevere summerweatherevents occurred in the Eastern Region ever the course of67 years, from 1955 to March 2022- This averages roughly 16A days with severe summer event(s) per year, therefore, the probability of future occurrence is ranked as highly likely. • Six deaths, 17 injuries, $31,650200 in property damages, and $31,954,000 in crop damages occurred from severe weather events since 1955, therefore the potential magnitude is ranked as critla il. • People most vulnerable to severe summer weather events are children, the elderly, individuals with preexisting medical conditions, outdoor workers/enthusiasts, and people living in dense urban areas. All outdoor property is vulnerable to severe weather events. Properties and vehides are most frequently reported as damaged property in the Eastern Region. Critical infrastructure such as roadways and electric equipment are especially vulnerable to severe summer weather. Power outages, house fires, and damages to vehides have been documented by the NCEI dataset Economic losses typically occur from severe hail events and associated cost of repairs from hail damage Areas with high infrastructure, such as major sides, are more likely to experience emnomic damages from hail than urban areas due to greater quantity of pmpertyo be damaged. • Related hazards Drought Wildfire. Wind & tornadoes Table 4-47 Risk Summary Table: Severe Summer Wernher Eastern Reim Hi h Big Hom I Medium 1 Hardin Lodge Gn None Fatlon Medium Plevna, Baker None Garfield Medium Jordan None Golden V.fie, Medium Ryg.M Lavina None MCC— Madium Circle A higher somber of weather- rel.ted events hive o-wred in MCCme County, Mu—Ishdl Medium Midst—, Roundup None Powder River High aroadus None Prairie High Terry None Rkhhnd Medium FaiivMw. Sidney None Roos It Medium Wolf Point Poplar, Bainville, None Culbenan, Fmid Rosebud Medium Colibrip, Forsyth None Sheridan Medium Plenty—od, Medicine Lake, None Outlook Westby Shchvater Medium Columbus None Treasure Medium H sham None Va1ey Medium Glasgow, Fort Peck Nashua A higher number of weather- Opheim related events hoe occurred in Uley County. Wbaux High Wbaux None Yefl wstme High Hidings, Broadview, Laurel A higher number of weather- rdated even have ecourred In dow Yeslnne County, newer development built to code is better designed to withstand weather. 42-11 Sean Wlntar Weather Himard/Problrm Oewiptimr Severe winter weather presents one of the greatest threats to fife of any hazard in Montana. Statistics an winter deaths are difficult to obtain, but nationwide there are on average 100 fives directly and indirectly lost to winter weather, more than fightning, hurricanes, or tornadoes. Winter storms are considered to be deceptive killers because most deaths are indirectly related to the storm. People die in traffic accidents on snow- or icecwemd roads, from hypothermia due to prolonged exposure to mid, and from heart attach due to overexertion. Winter storms may be categorized as bi uards, heavy snow, ice storms, winter storms, and winter weather. These stom s vary in size and intensity and may affect a small part of the state or several states atone The NWS defines common winter stoma characteristics w follows: defines extreme mid varies in different parts of the country. In this plan extreme mid is considered mid temperatures below zero that are sufficient to cause damage to property, crops, or people. Heavy Scow: This generally means • Snowfall accumulating to 4' or more in depth in 12 hours or less, or snowfall accumulating to 6' or mom in depth in 24 hours or less. • In forecasts, snowfall amounts are expressed as a range of values, eg,'B to 12 inches.' However, in heavy snow situations where there is considerable uncertainty concerning the range of values, more appropriate phrases are used, such as '—up to 12 inches_' or alternatively'_6 inches or mare ' Jail Storm: An ice storm is used to describe occasions when damaging accumulations of ice are expected during freezing rain situatiom. Significant accumulations of ice pull down trees and utility fines resulting in loss of power and communication. These amumulations of ice make walking and driving extremely dangerous. Winter Storm: A winter weather event that has more than one significant hazard (Le. heavy snow and blowing snow; snow, arced ire; snow and sleet sleet and ice; or snow, sleet, and ice) and meets or exceeds locally/regionally, defined 12 and/or 24-hour warning criteria for at least one of the precipitation elements. Normally, a Winter Storm would pose a threat to fife or property. Winter Wwt wr. A winter precipitation event that rouses a death injury, or a significant impact to commerce or transportation, but does not meet locally/regionally defined warning criteria A Winter Weather event could result from one or more winter precipitation types (snow, or blowing/drifting snow, or freezing nin/drizde). The Winter Weather event can also be used to document outof-season and other unusual or rare occurrences of snow, or blowing/drifting snow, or freezing rain/drizzle Wognpphk,A Area AHmted All aun0es in the Pastern Region are impacted by severe winter weather, therefore, the geographic extent of severe winter storms is ranked as eatberad—The 201B SHMP explains that the entire State is considered equally vulnerable o severe winter weather. Arctic cold fronts typimity enter the state from the northeast and may cross the Continental Divide, affecting mainly the western portion of the Stale rather than the Eastern Region Arctic fronts meeting wet maritime fronts often combine to cause heavy snowfall which an occur in all parts of the State The lowest temperatures are typically experienced in the northeast whereas the heaviest snowfall most often occurs in the mountain region in the southwest portion of the Eastern Region. Mt flrarrenm The NCEI database was used to gather information on historic severe winter weather events in the Eastern Region of Montana It is important to rote that weather events that occurred on Crow Tribe and North Cheyenne Tribe are aim inducted in the dataset tables dawn below. However, instead of individual records, tribal data records were grouped into the nearest County. The NCEI dataset contains information on severe Winter weather events from 1996 to Mardi of 2022. The specific hazards selected for severe winter weather consist of br=ard, coWWnd chill heavy snow, ice soon, winter stone, and winter weather events. Mmiana E—Pagion Hazard Mi'on Ran Hasid Idemtifiutim and Wok Aatesenem Table 448 summarizes winter weather data from NCEI. Not all severe winter weather events get reported by the PICA and losses are estimates, therefore actual losses may be higher than those reported below. a nod on these data, winter storms we the most frequently occurring and damaging type of —are winter weather event {n the Eastern Region. Henry snow is another frequently —4.9 event in the Region. Blizzsids. heavy snow, and winter storms are the only types of severe winter weather with dommanted property losses. Blizzards, coldAvind chill, winter storm and winter weather events have resulted in a total of 14 injuries and 13 deaths in the Eastern Region. Table 448 Summary of Loses by Hazard in the Eadtem Region Deaths Injariu Property Loss Drys with Evanb UW Emma There are variations in losses and frequency of hazards across the Eastern Region. Due to the regional nature of severe winter storms, the NCEI records all severe winter weather events by zone rather than by county. The zones used by NCEI can extend over county lines, and many counties contain more than one zone. Table 4-49 and Figure 4-57 provides the total number of severe winter weather events by zone. Red Lodge Foothills Zone has the greatest number of events. Table 449 Summary of Severe Winter Weather Events by Zone in the Eastem Region 2an•N•m• elivard Wind Ch01 Heavy snow In seom Wiener storm Wi M•r w..the. Total = Montana Eartem Peglon Narard Midgatlon qan Huard Idmdfiratlm+nd tick Anavnem Zone Name Nimrd Cdd/ WM Chill Heavy Snow In Stem Winter Stone Winter WeatherWastem T., Carbon on.) Rgw•45/ Summary ofsaran Winwr WaalMrfwna lry Z•rw In Ma Fealam Ragbn Monona Easnm apron Hanes Miugatwn Han HanN Wmufiadon ChM tih aasesvnent The NCEI dataset reported S9,3S9,700 in total property losses in the Eastern Region since 1996. No crop damage was reported in the region. Three zones accounted for 88%of the properlydamage reported. Table 4-50 summarizes property loss by zone in the Eastern Region. Table 4-SO Summary of Property Losses from Winter Waathi r Events by Zone in the Eastern Region The NCEI reported details an several significant events in the Eastem Region: • November 1, 2000: A major winter storm hit eastern Montana leaving over 1,500 residents without power as nearly 2,000 power poles snapped in half. The stone started as rain and produced several hours of sleet before changing to snow. After the ice turned to all snow, strong winds from 30 to 45 mph with gusts to 60 mph developed creating blizzard conditions with 6 to 12 inches of snow. Drifts up to 5 and 6 feet were reported in Sheridan County. This event impacted quite a few zoneycounties in the Eastern Region and resulted in a combined $3,3D6,700 of property losses. April 9, ZDO1: An early spring snowstorm impacted parts of South Central and Southeast Montana on April 8th and April 9th Southern Big Hom County, was the hardest hit An estimated 600 power poles were knocked down from heavy, wet snow, ice, and wind. Thousands of people were without power for up to 7 days. The hardest hit area was along Route 314 in the IOrby/Decker area and in the western end of the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation. This event resulted in $120D,000 of property losses. • February 19, 2009: An arctic cold front moved across the forecast area during the late evening hours of the 19th and early morning hours of Febmary 20e. Upslope lbw developed behind the front This resulted in heavy snow across the foothills of the BeartootNAbmmka Mountains with minor —mulations across the plains. However, very slick roads resulted in dangerous traveling conditions. As a result of the icy mads, a 16-yeargid girl died in a one-vehide crash on Interstate 90 near Dunmore, Montana. In addition, two women died in a two-vehide crash on Highway 212, about 8 miles west of Ashland. Although mad conditions were icy and snow packed at the time of the accidents, Montana State patrol reported speed was also a factor. Maros 29, 2D09: A second major snowstorm and blizzard within a week's time brought heavy snow and strong winds to portions of Southern Montana and Northern Wyoming. This storm impacted areas that were hit hard by the March 23-24 storm. Winds across the area were sustained in the 25 to 35 mph range with gusts from 30 to 40 mph These winds combined with heavy snow resulted in visibilities being reduced to a quarter mile at many locations. In addition, snowfall exceeded 12 in Carbon, Stillwater, and Custer Counties. The storm resulted in one death. A 19year-old woman was killed on Highway 39 near Forsyth after losing control of her oar on the snow-covered highway. This event resulted in $1 SOOODO of property losses. Montana Eanem Region Huard Mldgwivi Nan Hued Iderofiaaduh and Rick Ann•nmr • November 9,2012•Alow-pressure system from the Gulf of Alaska descended over the RodcyMountain region, then moved northeast emerging over the northern high plains. An arctic air mass from Alberta combined with wanner temperatures from the south to steer plentiful moisture through the a,ej, bringing the first major winter storm of the season to northeast Montana This event caused three deaths and one injury, as well as 525,D00 in property losses. • May to, 2016: A very strong low-pressure system from the pacific northwest stalled over southern Montana and northern Wyoming with plentiful moisture. Significant amounts of mode -ate and heavy min spread across many locations while enough cold air from the Canadian Rockies wrapped around the system to change the precipitation to a hea f, very wet snow for some higher elmatiom of central and northern Marano This event resulted in i240,000 of property losses. F.gaM AikWd—d of 0— The frequency of severe winter weather in the Eastern Region is ranked as highly likely. Severe winter weather impacts the state annually with blowing and drifting snow, extreme cold, hazardous driving conditions, and utility interruption. The NCEI dataset reported 738 days with severe weather events over 26 years, which averages to nearly 29 days a year with severe winter weather events in the Eastern Region. According to the 2023 SHMP, winter weather typically affects the state from November to April each year, but late storms can extend into June. Mon— Eutam Region Hmrd Midgadon Nan Huard Idaarofiudm and Risk /useavnmt Figure 4-58 below depicts the annualized frequency of cold events at a county level based on the NRI. A trend exists of increased frequency in the northern part of the region, particularly in Daniels, Valley, Roosevelt and Sheridan counties. Figure 4-59 depicts annualized frequency of winter weather events at a county level based an the NRI. A trend exists towards increased frequency in the southwestern region, particularly Stillwater and Carbon counties. rL- �.;1. g a-sa Nb Annuaena irpuanp al role Frans by-n, V,. W.W. Centrd Ea Region Region Rs r'.di'.II,S : i, Fig. a-sg NM am 11-1F—,... al wl—W.—,E—h by County Western E: Region Central R Region _ r 5�i 1 , a,..wwnwes �zn-nos �du •r Mwmna E.stm Re Ion Narard Midgatlan Plan Heard Idm fiadm and Pick Annsmem Mon.- Ea— xisiw, H—M! Mitgatien Ran tWanl Mmdfudan and Wsk Asswwnent Between 1996 and 2022, winter weather events have occurred more frequently, then less frequently (Figure 4-60). It is not dear if this indicates a meaningful trend moving forward. The frequency of events by month is provided in Figure 4.61. Figure 4.60 Yeerhj Tnnd of Winter Weather Events in the Eastern Region (1995.2022) tin zoo n S Iso S E IN i 50 o I ' scarce: NOEI. Chart by vans Figure 4-61 Monthly Trend of Winter Weather Events in the Fastens Region (1996.2022) NO 500 n aoo `o too E � 200 100 g .. .. _ .....'...C• Swrcr N¢t dart byVhP Mwdana Ersum Paglm Hoard Mhdg.don Pon Heard Idmtifiaem and Nsk Aaanvnmt Climate Change Cordderatiorte The 2021 Ornate Change and Human Health in Montana report documents that annual averege ture temperas have increased in Montana 2-3 IF since 1950 in both summer and winter. This is greater than most of the U.S. due to the mid-continent location of the state. This trend is expected to continue and by mid-century the Montana Climate Assessment anticipates Montana will be 4.5-6.0 IF warmer than it was fmm 1971-2000. Precipitation has not charged significantly, but the 2021 Montana Climate Change and Human Health report anticipates predpitabon to increase slightly, perhaps an inch/year, mostly from March -May. With regard to winter weather, NOM's 2022 National Climate Assessment documents that average winter temperatures in Montana have increased, with a striking reduction in the observed number of very cold days, especially in the last 20 years as shown in Figure 4-62. Both the Montana Climate Assessment and NOAA reports anticipate the number of cold days will continue to dedine. Recent academic researdl also indicates the frequency of blizzards are on the decline in Montana, including a dramatic reduction in the number of blizzards in 2011-2020 relative to 2000-2010! Figure 4.62 Winter Temperature Observations in Monte.. Observed Waaer Tar,yaraaea a Obeerwd NtnewdVeryColdtaeye b b �b {g� 3 s.sys`nes pot nprnem aural awrege tempentur.(A) and Me numlar ofdays vide a high tempeub of 01 car lawn(91 Ban r. SYev avenges (bed, A and Chi. Week hwizenal fin.h the xwng. w nmpentun fw all year, 18115-2a2a. Rgure.diptad frcm 2022 Na S.I. cl.n. Summaries Mont. htrpsJ/strtesvmmadeand<corg/tl,apter/mV Neither the Montana Climate Assessment or the WAS chapter an the Northern Great Plains explicitly address climate change effects on blizzard, wind chill, heavy snowfall, ice storms, winter stom., or winter weather, other than to state that winters are expected to become warmer. Due to the relatively coarse resolution of climate change effects on severe winter weather, it would be speculative to makejudgemenh an differences between eachjurisdiction within the region. Future updates to this plan should revisit this topic as scientific knowledge progresses. Poibetw M4gsli taw. and Severity The 2018 Montana SHMP explains that the magnitude of severe weather is measured by the severity of the event and the resulting damage Winter storms am generally slow in developing and advance notice often lessens their effects on the population. Severe winter weather that results in loss of life, extended mad closures, long-term power outages, or significant isolation problems represent high -magnitude weather events for Montana. Routine damages to property am largely due to frozen pipes. Collapsed mots from snow bads are not common due to the low percent moisture in typical snow loads, in the Eastern Region, millions of dollars have been lost in property damage, in addition to the less of life and several injuries, most of which occurred from a tramportation accident due to severe winter weather. Several disaster declarations were issued in the Eastem Region due to severe winter storms on December 6, 2000, May 28, 2001, and June 13, 2008. In the Eastern Region, NCEI reported 13 dealt., 14 i juries, and almost $gA million in property losses; therefore, magnitude of severe winterweather is ranked as critical. In 2001. the NWS implemented an updated Wind Chill Temperature index as shown in Figure 4-63. This index was developed to describe the relative discomfortjdanger resulting from the combination of wind and temperature. Wind chill is based on the rate of heat loss from exposed skin caused by wind and cold. As the wind increases, it draws heat from the body, driving down skin temperature and eventually the internal body temperature. Figure 4.63 National Weather Service Wind Chill Client The severity of ice storms can be measured with the Sperry-Piltz Ice Accumulation (SPIW Index, shaven in Table 4-51. The SPIA Index is a fon:casbng of ice accumulation and ice damage that uses various parameters that an help predict the projected extent of ice storms. Historical measurements of ice storms using the SPIA Index are unavailable. Monnna Fast. eedo„ Hoard M111gadon Plan Haab Mmdaudon and plat Ao.vx t Table 4-51 Sperry -PiIu Ice Accumulation Index sw,ss Nsys The extent rating of winter storrns that cause issues in Montana includes storms forecasted with Winter Starm Warnings or Brizzard Warnings. The NWS issues a Winter Stonn Warning when conditions that can quickly became rife threatening and are more serious than an inconvenience are imminent or already rcumaig. Heavy snows, or a combination of snow, freezing rain or extreme wind chill due to strong wind, may bring widespread or lengthy road closures and hazardous travel conditions, plus threaten temporary lass of community services such as power, and water. Deep snow and additional strong wind chill or fmstbite may be a threat to even the apdressed propriately individual or to even the strongest person exposed to the frigid weather for only a short period. The most dangerous of all winter storms is the blizzard. A brivard warning is issued when winds of 35 miles an hour will occur in combination with considerable falling and/or blowing snow for at least 3 hours. Ysibirities will frequently be reduced to less than 1/4 mile and temperatures ma usually 20 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. The blizzard marks the upper extent of severe winter storms that could be experienced in Montana NOANs NCEI produces the Regional Snowfall Index (RSq for significant snowstorms that impact the eastern two thirds of the U.S. The RSI ranks snowstorm impacts an a scale fmm 1 to 5, similar to the Fujlta scale for tom adoes or the Saffr-Simpson scale for hurricanes (Table 4-52). As shown in Table 4-52 RSI is a regional Index; a separate index is produced for each of the sot NCEI climate regions in the eastem two-thirds a the nation Montana is included in the Northern Rockies and Plains Regior, along with Nebraska North Dakota, Wyoming, and South Dakotas R51 ratings from 1 to 5 are possible in Montana RSI values for historical '&come, A. h Lien L('.D). Mnirig.ting 1h. era ofbr..M—no vans a. radV_; United sttn udng observrtims a 1te R51 is ndgned. Ming to methods calmed I, - and climate pro)ecvw,s(n veord prmsrch Lmas, lal 1111t 4. ,,rr Mannna Eastern Regim Hara,d Mi091w,, Man Huard I-6.6m and Risk Assesvnent events are unava➢able for the state of Montana or are ambiguous as to the geographic extent of stones in the northern Rockies and Plains states. Table 4.52 Regional Snowfell Index IRS Ratings for Significant Snowstorms Now 2 Signi6;ant 3 Major 4 Crippling 5 EAreme Winter storms and blivards can result in multiple injuries and illnesses; m jor or long term property damage that threatens structural stability, and/or interruption of essential facilities and services for 24-72 hours. This can include property damage, local and regional power and phone outages, and dosures of streets, highways, schools, businesses, and nonessential government operations. People can also become isolated from a ential services in their homes and vehicles. A winter storm can escalate, creating life threatening situations when emergency response is hinted by severe winter conditions. Other issues associated with severe winter weather include hypothermia and the threat of physical overexertion that may lead to heart attach or strokes. Snow removal costs can impact budgets significantly. Heavy snowfall during winter can also lead to flooding or landslides during the spring if the area snowpack melts too quickly and contribute to high ground water tables and seepage into foundations. High snow loads also cause damage to buildings and roofs. Vokr.r.bMtyA—.* Severe winter weather occur in the planting area as extreme mid, ice storm, or severe snow, 'Zi an M combined with high winds Snow events can be classified several ways, including winter weather, snow, heavy snow, winter storm, snow and blowing arrow, or biisard if accompanied by high winds. The National Fisk Index categorises these conditioro together as winter weather, and I- has layers for.xtreme cold and ice storm. The NRI is useful to simplify the vulnerability analysis by providing information on the exposure of assets W these hoards and to some extent the susceptibility of those assets to damage from exposure. The NRI risk index is alcrdated as expected annual toss (PAL) multiplied by social vulnerability, divided by m unity resilience and provides a measure of how severely extreme winter weather is experienced. NRI data for mid waves is provided in Squires w A. (2011) The regimil snowlaR indu aulletin dNe Amenran MrteoNagi W S,dKy, 95(12),1835-18a8. Farmualnfamatlw sea Montana Eanem Region Hxnrd Mi69a61n ilan Nuard Idendfiui andNkAssix— Figure 4-64 for expected annual loss and risk index in Figure 4-6S. The NRI risk index rating for ice storm is not shown below. The ice storm risk is the lowest possible rating in most of the Eastern Region, very low. Roosevelt County is rated one -classification higher risk relatively low, and Yellowstone, Richland, and Sheridan Counties are rated one additional classification higher risk a relatively moderate ice storm risk NRI data for winter weather are provided below for expected annual loss (Figure 4-66) and risk index (Figure 4-67). p9un e-Ra NM Fxpxbd MmNI W u Rating NOm COW Wwee Central Region Region .f� vF(/N iW��I peat Kf NRI Riot IMea /aWp brrMd Warer YY.aLrrr C.rllnl E �9 Region P A)1 awamwe sun Nm w aaan+iNV, FS R+.nwi •® -cants wpwwsa. rice sou�v NrAx•sW xolaaa . -- v +-56 Nw Fip+a -A.. Mtlnphem Winlx Wr.Mx Western Centel Eastern Region Region Region rc..en...nnr. s.av .•Q. � w' � swse nai s�u.sw..,.ce zozu ® Mwwy Ytiv4 Y ao,mw: bM11 - xeawa.rrw csrr. a near Yw wv,mm. we.y m, wn«w..m.. Western Centel Eastern Region Region Region .a.. n..er ® a,..wr eras uw,_.: w-a rtYn nn.a.oa:czu sb ca w. Individuals who depend on electricity are also vulnerable during blackouts mused by severe winter weather People without approp date shelter or who work autside are more vulnerable to cold -related illnesses. In all the cases of injury or death reported by the NCEI due to winter weather events, the impacted individuals were on the mad during a severe winter weather event and suffered injuries due to an accident The NCEI reported one death and ten injuries due to severe winter weather events P-Warly All property located outdoors is exposed to severe winter weather events. Acaenuladon of snow and ice on mots can muse collapse, especially on old or poorly constructed facilities. Ice storms can coat the exterior of a facility and an cause superficial damages. Prolonged mid can cause significant damages to poorly insulated facilities. The NCEI reported property losses in the Eastern Region were primarily due to blackouts mused by downed powedires and poles, as well as damages to cars from automobile crashes. Communities in the Eastern region that have experienced recent development may report that these structures are better able to withstand severe winter weather as new construction is built to current code and roof loads are better designed to withstand greater snow loads. CrWoulf dlitiaa and G/affnes The safe and efficient Row of traffic is susceptible to extreme winter weather. Automobile crashes are more frequent dump extreme winter weather and roads can become difficult or impossible to travel. These problems can isolate many people and create a dangerous situation for stranded motorists. Additionally, overhead power lines are susceptible to damage from the accumulation of snow and ice. This can cause power outages that lead to a dangerous loss of heat or electricity needed to operate medical equipment, all during periods likely to be extremely cold and possibly windy. &ononny The economy is susceptible to extreme winter weather hazards. Examples include lower economic activity due to business interruptions associated with poor mad conditions. Indirectly, power outages can cause very costly impacts. The NCEI reported $93 million in property losses in the Eastern Region. Eapect.d Armual toss due to cold waves as MmYm Eanem Aegim Hmk Miegatlen Han Huard MmaRadm ark Risk Asseavnmt Monona rasmm ne9bn Hack Mitigaaon qan Hunk Mm.fiud'm and Nh Attaurent Figure 4-64 and Figure 4-66. Losses from cold waves are greatest in the northern end of the Eastern Region, while losses are generally highest in the south and southwest parts of the region. Historic and Crrlmral A — — Historic Historic and cultural resources are somewhat smmptible to extreme winter weather. Historic buildings, in particular, are unlikely to be insulated to the standard common to new conswctiors This leads to less protection for property, and people inside the buildings from extreme cold temperatures and wind, greater susceptibility to damage from power outages, and increased probability of damage to or caused by frozen pipe, Natural Resources Trees, landscaping, and caps can be damaged due to prolonged periods of extreme mid weather and the accumulation of snow and ice. Trees that break due to the weight of snow and ice have also been reported in the NCEI dwaset Oevelopmarrt7 ads Related to Hamrds and Risk There are no dear trends that recent development has changed vulnerability to severe winter weather ne way or the other. Nor is it evident that future development will affect vulnerability to severe winter weather, other than new construction should be better designed to handle greater snow loads and the effects of extreme temperatures through better insulation and efficient building materials. Risk Summary In summary, the Severe Winter Weather hazard is considered to be overall high significance for the Eastern Region. Variations in risk byjurisdiction are summarized in the table below, followed by key issues noted in the vulnerability assessment • Severe winter weather indudm blizzards, mld/Wnd chill, heavy snow, ice storm, winter weather, and winter storm. The hazard significance rating for this hazard is a Madium. • These events an impact anywhere in the planning region; therefore, the hazard extent is rated as extensive. • The NCEI data reported 1,738 days with severe weather events over 26 years, which averages to nearly 28 days a year with severe winter weather events in the Eastern Region; therefore, the future occurrence is rated as Eighty likely. • The NCEI reported 13 death, 14 injuries, and f9,359,700 in property damages, therefore the magnitude is rated as Critical. • People who are dependent on electricity and populations who work outdoors or in transportation are most vulnerable to severe winter weather events. People who do not have appropriate shelter or who live in homes without proper insulation from winter weather, such as homeless populations and those in mobile homes, are most vulnerable to winter weather. • Power outages and poor road conditions are likely impacts of severe winter stoma. Structures can collapse under the might of snow and ice. Most property damage in the Region occurred due to or accidents because of poor mad conditiom from winter storms. • Significant economic losses can occur from business and transportation disruptions, as well as from repairing damaged infrastructure. • Related hazards: Extreme Temperatures, Windstorms, Transportation Accidents Tabl. 4-S3 Risk Summary Table severe Winter Weeth.r Eastern Region I Mecum Big Han I Mecum Hardin, Lad .Grass I Nan. Mmtana Eamem 54,9im Hank Mltlgaeon Mn Huard Id—fioum and Risk Asseserant Carbon goifiomoa Medium Beii—k Bridgen J Iiet FrombM Red lad . None Carter M.dbm EWA. None Custer Medium bma,Md. City None Cray Tribe Mob None None Dmkls Mecum St ,Fl—ile None Dawson Mecum Richey, Giendwe None F.Bon Medum Pkvm, Baker None Garfield Madura Jordan None Golden Valley Mecum lii,me.lxvin. None Mccone Medbm Cade None Mu—Ishell Madura Mel— Roundu p None PowderRku High Broads None Pride High Tem, None Rkhlmd M.&M Fafivfew, Sidney None Rooseveh Mecum Wolf Pant Poplar, Bonvilh, Culberson, Frdd More Rosebud M.&M Cobuip. Forsyth None Sheridan M.&M Plentywood, Medkine I.A. o dockwas None stilwater Medium Columbus None Treawre Medium H None Valley Medium Glasgow, Fora Peck Nashua, Optiti. None Vex High Wbaux None Ydmwton. Mecum Billings, Broadview, Laurel Likely greater dsk due to presence of more property and kdrxsruktrre vuincnble, to winter weather. 42.12 Human Co~ Human conflict includes terarisnl active shooters, and civil unrest Descriptions of these hazards are presented below. - Tamriam The FBI defines terrorism, domestic or international, as the unlawful use of force orviolence against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government or civilian population in furtherance of political or social objectives. The US State Department designates 72 groups as Foreign Terrorist Organizatiom around the mdd. There is no similar list of domestic terrorist groups. The Global Terrorism Database (GTD) maintained by the National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism lists 241 groups known or suspected of carrying out terrorist attacks on US sail since 1970. Incidents involving weapons of mass destruction (WMIDs) are a special subset of terrorism and mass violence incidents. Such incidents may involve chemical, biological, radioactive, nuclear, or explosive (CBRNE) weapons with the potential to cause high numbers of injuries or fatalities. Historically explosives have been the most common terrorist weapon, accounting for 51%of all attacks since 1970. Hazard impacts are typically instantaneous; secondary devices may be used, lengthening the duration of the hazard until the attack site is determined to be dear. The extent of damage is determined by the type and quantity of explosive. Effects are generally static other than cascading consequences and immmental structural failures. Some areas could experience direct weapons' effects: blast and heat others could experience indirect weapons' effect Biological terrorism is the use of biological agents against persons or property. Liquid or solid contaminants can be dispersed using spmyer/aemsol generators or by point of fine sources such as munitions, covert deposits and moving sprayers. Biological agents vary in the amount of time they pose a threat They can be a threat for hours to years depending upon the agent and the conditions in which it exists. Another type of biological attack is agmtermrism, directed at causing societal and economic damage through the intentional introduction of a contagious animal disease or fast -spreading plant disease that affects Fwestock and food crops and disrupts the food supply chairs Such an attack could require the agriculture industry to destroy livestock and food crops, disrupt the food supply both nationally and globally, and could also affect mmumer confidence in the food supply resulting in tremendous ecommic damage for potentially an extended period. Chemical terrorism involves the use or threat of chemical agents against persons or property. Effects of chemical contaminants are fike biological agents. Radiological terrorism is the use of radiological materials against persons or property. Radioactive contaminants can be clopersed using sprayerslaerosol generators, or by point of line sources such as munitions, covert deposits and moving sprayers or by the detonation of a nuclear device underground, at the surface, in the air or at high attitude Active Shooter The FBI defines an active shooter as one or more individuals actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a populated area. Implicit in this definition is the shooters use of one or more firearm, The 'active' aspect of the definition inherently implies the ongoing nature of the incidents, and thus the potential for the response to affect the outcome. Typically, active shooters are not interested in taking hostages or attaining material gain, and frequently are not even interested in their own survival. Unlike organized terrorist attacks, most active shooter incidents are carried out by one or two individuals. School shootings are a special subset of active shooter incidents. The US Department of Homeland Security notes that in most cases, active shooters use firearms(s) and there is no pattern or method to their selection of victims situations are unpredictable and evolve quickly and are often over within 10 to 15 minutes.' However, the presence or suspected presence of secondary devices can lengthen the duration of the event until the attack site is determined to be dear. Although this definition tomsm on an active shooter, the elements remain the same for most active threat situations. Civill Unrest The federal law defines civil disorder, or civil unrest as 'any public disturbance involving acts of violence by assemblages of three or more persons, which causes an immediate danger of or results in damage or injury to the property or person of any other individual" (18 U.S. Code 232). FEMA noted that civil unrest an be triggered by a variety of reasons, including -disputes over exploitation of workers, standard riving conditions, lack of political representation, poor health rare and education, lack of employment opportunities, and racial issues' (FEMA 1993). frrgnpMral Ana All di d Although human conflict events an occur anywhere in the Eastern Region, individual events will typically only impact ldcafized cities. Past events indicate that the reported terrorist attack and civil unrest events in the Eastern Region have been concentrated to eight (8) tides in the Region listed below. Therefore, geographic extent of these events is rated as significant Monona U-m Regan Hook Mitigation Han Wrak ldmdf rim and Risk Asaarant Rosebud County o tame Deer Custer County o Gty of Mlles city • Carbon County a Townoflaliet o Gtyof Red Lodge . Big Hom County o CmwAgency o Cityof Hardin • Yellowstone County o Ciryof Bklfings o C1tyof Laurel Acts of terrorism are typicaly a pre -meditated, targeted attack on a specific place orgroup such as religious or ethnic groups or sites of significant economic strategic military, or cultural significance. Consequently, amas of higher risk include densely populated cities and counties and military facilities. Large venue events, such as a sporting event attended by tens of thousands of people might be considered a desirable target Again, such events typically occur in densely populated areas since those area can provide the infrastructure support (hotels, eateries, etc) for large numbers of people. Even a small-scale terrorist incident in one of these locations would likely cause cascading impacts to the mmmunifies in Eastern Montana Like terrorist attacks, active shooter incidents most frequently, occur in high -population areas. The FBI report Active Shooter InddenN 20-Year Review from 2000-2019 found that 29% of active shooter incidents in the U.S. occur in businesses open to pedestrians, 15% in open spaces, 13%in schools (Pre-K- 12), and 12%in businesses dosed to pedestrians. Civil unrest such as protests and demonstrations, can also occur anywhere. The 2020 George Floyd protests occurred in cities across the United States and even extended to other counties across the world. Highly populated cities are more likely to see large protests that an turn violent and result in property damage and death. Protests an also be localized to a single city or organization. Past Ocaxanrtu. Tmroriarr The GTD catalogues more than 200,000 domestic and International terrorist attacks frem 1970 to 2020. Table 4-54 displays a list of the GTD reported seven events that have occurred in the State of Montana since 1970. Of the seven terrorist attack events reported in Montana, one occurred in the Eastern Region. This terrorist attack occurred in the City of Billings (Yellowstone County) on March 15, 1970, and was aimed at the police. No injuries or deaths were recorded. Table 4-54 Terrorist Attacks in the State of Montana 1970-2020 2017-05.16 Three Forks And-Poke—Irts 2 5 P.m 1997-0/-02 8ouman Anti -Abortion extremists 0 0 Abortion Related 1994-1D-11 Karin 0 MO-AbortwneNemha 0 0 Abortion Related 1999-01-00 H.lena AnlMbard—nbemhts 0 0 Abortion Related 1992-01-19 Helene And-Ahartron eximmishs 0 0 Abortion Related 19ST-04-19 Missw4 Aryan N.tian su 0 0 Polk. - vap.)4.175 ege141M a— Eanem Reim Hazard Midgnk,n Plan Nuard Idmdficaum and 2h asasment Montana Eanern Rgion 1laasd MJ",,n Han NaraN ldmn� non end Risk Assnsment Date city1970-03-15 swin; Unknown 0 0 Police Source UD 1970-11IN As shown in Figure 4-68, GTD data shows that there was an overall de:reasing trend in the number of terrorist attacks from 1970 to 2005. However, since 2010, there has been an upta'ce in the numberaf terrorist attacks in the United States once again. Figure 4.68 Terrorist Attacks on US Soil, 1970-2020 Sauce, GTD, https/Awvw M.nxIadu/gtd/ The increase in attacks over the last decade has been driven primarily by domestic, not international, terrorism A domestic terrorist attack is a terrorist attack in which victims 'within a country are targeted by aperpetratorwith the same citizenship as thevictimi (Predicting Malicious Behavior.Tools and Techniques for Ensuring Global Security).A recent report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies records 980 domestic terrorist attacks in the US since 1994, with sharp growth over the last 10 to 15 years Figure 4-69 shows the increase in domestic terrorist attacks from 1994 to 2021 broken down by the ideology of the attacker. As shaven in the chart the rise in damesticterrorist attacks since 2015 has been largely driven by violent far -right groups. Data for 2021 was net complete at the time of this risk assessment and this explains the drop in attacks shown for that year. Mmuna Eastern Rgim Hoard Mlda.dm Flan Hazard Idmd6cadm nth Risk. —ant Figure 4.69 Domestic Terrorist Attacks in the US, 1994-2021 '22 �r. zt2 - a2 Smrtc Crrtr for Sinn"k and Intarvnmil Saida Active slraefax - The FBI reported 434 active shooter incidents from 2000 to2021 in the United States: 333 of these events occurred between 2000 to2019 and were reported in the FBI 20-year,active shooter review. Figure 4-70 shows the location of where these incidents took place. The FBI reported an additional40 incidents in 2020 and 61 incidents in 2021. While none of these 434 incidents took place in the State of Montana, trends from past events can be used to predict the likelihood of future events Figure 4-70 Actva Shooter Incident Locations, 2000.2019 Swrte FBI report Attire S.—ncidmg2 Yea, Re4ee 200 NISI civil U.— Count Love is an open -source database containing a comprehensive list of U.S. pretests from January 20 % 2017, to January 21 a, 2021. The dataset reported 27,270 protests across 4,042 cities in the United States. In Montana alone, 293 protests were reported across the State 228 in the Western Region, 42 in the Eastern Region and 23 in the Eastern Region Table 4-55 provides details on these events. 5,178 people attended these protests in total. Table 4.55 Protases In the Easti m Region, Jens. ZD17—J.-2021 1/762021 Billies Yen--. 30 CB Right, 1AM21 Billkigs Yellowstone 50 S'evat"e a2912020 Hardin Big Hem Other U1612020 Red Lade Cadmn 200 Other 7/302020 Billings Yellowstone 100 Other 6212071) Bifiin Yellowstone 1300 Racal ",stk. 5/30/2020 Bien Yellowstone 50 Racial Injustice 4/19/2020 Billings Yellowstone 100 Heakhcare 224/2020 Hardin Bin Hom I Other 1 7 19 Billie Yellowstone Executive 9 019 Hardn Big Hom 100 Other 79 Hatd Big Ham 100 Other 6A22019 Bien Yellowstone 20 CW Rkfits S/2IfZDI9 Billie YeBowstone 60 CB Rights 5212D19 Billings Yellowstone 10 OW Ri tits 19 Bifiin Y.Ila-tort 400 Other 19 Billie Y.11—tone Education 22 lg Miks Ci Cusser Education 14 19 Lame Deer Rosebud Other 1 9 19 Bifiin Yellowstone Cn Ri fz i 1 1B Lame Deer Rosebud 100 Other Comnal)ustke 11 /8 C—A Big Hom b6We 10 1 18 Miles City Custer 5 Heakhcare 9 18 Billitni, Yellowstone 50 Executive 7252018 Billings Yellowstone 20 Executive 6/30/2DIS filling, Yellowstone 100 Immigration(Families Belong T ethe 626201E Billings Yellewstchre 60 C.9 Rights Pro.Choke 0/2318 Billings Yellowstone 150 Heaklncan idem' 42/Z018 Billings Yellowstone 100 Guns sand Amendmen0 3124r4l8 1 Bifiin Yallewstona 3 1 Guns 324/2018 Bilfin Yellowstone 400 Guns amhfar Our Lives 3/14201B Offiatis Yelle—tone Guns(National Walkout Day) 1262018 Billings Yellowstone Education hod Choke) 1 18 Bifin Yellowstone 100O CB Rights Womett, Meath) 120/2010 Miles Cl Custer So Civil Rights Woren's March) 915 17 Billings Yellowstone 10 Immigration 6/172017 Billings Yellowstone 200 C BRight; Pdde 5/12=7 JiMago Yellowstone 100 E 11n, 429/2D17 Biftga Yellowstone 100 Environment (Peoples Cl ate March) 421 17 Billingri Yellowstone SO ExeruWe 328/7217 Laurel Yell owstone 1W Education(Principal Find1212017 Miks C Custer 50 CNN Rights on's March) Saurcc hnpa//muntlavao W —an. Filson li,e Head Miff atia. Han Hoard Idmtifiadm and list Arscsment Frequ am.yAlleall—clofOccu reraca The probability of a temanss attack, active shooter attack and civil unrest ran be difficult to quantify, largely due to different definitions and data collection methods. In Montana, seven terrorist attads have been reported in the State since 1970, only one of which took place in the Eastern Region The FBI recorded 434 active shooter incidents from 2000 te2021, none of which occurred in the State. While both terrorist attack and active shooter attach are rare in Montana, civil unrest is a more common occvnence. Over the course of 4 years from 2017 to 2021, 42 protest events were recorded in the Eastern Region of Montana, most of which occurred in the City of Billings. This averages out to about 10 or 11 protests per year in the Eastern Region. Based on the limited number of past events, the likelihood of these events is occasional. Corned. Change, t onsickratJane Climate change has the potential to impact terrorism and dvil unrest in the future Extreme weather has been known to worsen social tensions, poverty, and hunger. Social instability and global conflict brought on by dhmate change could result in an increase in the number of bath domestic and international terrorist attacks and civil unrest While it is unlikely that climate change will have a significant impact on human conflict in the Eastern Region of Montana, if conditions continue to worsen it is possible in the future. Potential Maiginh da end Snowily The severity of these incidents can be measured in multiple ways including length of incident, fatalities, casualties, witnesses, and number of perpetrators. Although an active threat may only directly impact one specific piece of infrastructure (e g, a school, theater, or concert venue), it:ndimctlyimpacts the community.. - in many ways, including ongoing closures for investigation local and national media logistic, VIP visits, mental health concerns, need for additional support services, avoidance of similar infrastructure, and subsequent impacts to businesses. The psychological impact is often much worse than the direct impacts and can continue to affect a community foryeam Thus, the overall significance ofthis hazard is Critical. Terra d"m The GTD catalogues more than 200,000 terrorist attacks between 1970 and ZD20 (the most recent year the GTD has analyzed). Those incidents averaged mughly one fatality and five injuries per incident. However, this data is to a large extent skewed by a handful of deadly attacks. These five attacks account for 64% of the fatalities and B7%of the injuries from terrorist attacks in the US: September 11, 2001, attacks on New York and Washington DC, which killed 1,385 and injured 10,878 — more than all other terrorist attacks in the US since 1970 combined. October 1, 2017, shooting at the Route 91 Harvest Festival concert in Las Vegas, Nevada, which killed 59 and wounding 851. a April 4, 2013, Boston Marathon Bombing killed three and injured 264. a April 19, 1995, bombing of the Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, kilt g 168 and injuring 650. Sept mbee-October 1994 salmonella food poisoning attack in Dalles, Oregon which sickened 751 people. Atli. Shooter Figure 4-71 summarizes the outcomes of 333 active shooter incidents in the US from 2D00 to2019 studied by the FBI. Casualties for active shooter incidents vary widefy, with 2,851 casualties from 333 incidents, averaging over 8 deaths per incident •{ r . Dsge14778 Pge14170 i Madam Fuam Reglm Hoard Mit mJa flan Hard Idmtifiudm and tick Assnvnmt Montana Umxm Rx iim Hxald Mitipmn Mn HaranfMmtifiadmand Risk Ail —nt Figure 4-71 Attiw Shaater Incident Outcomes, 2000-2019 6 _ r 80 Number of eoShe.r G.nd.r Shooters O O 34.9 V(uIW' 19 10- 29 It, vs.•. u.ey amyl .-322 fa.Ws: la Casualties 119 Sh• C...M.4 S rid. 2,851 , M.I. Fade n3 1 irridw.. m•1 ac.a� ■s ssn od—sh.•ter O—a- s sh..s.ra lean W Paco. YSag d•Rniti.,a tou kaea ^a+o^i nu. IsOfi.•I.r. krl.l icy sltlaa•a Ol�xx. 11 Ilea a+raga m .tt1.,u^da0. 67 ■ ah.sMl a erahaM.d P ypaeri oRcn...e.,.a.ryp+el. 4 ■Skew.. xtrq. 5oxcr. FBI report Aktive shoran Inddma 2a-Yea1 Redraw 2000.2019 Civil Unrest Civil unrest resulting in large scale protests and demonstrations can have significant impacts to people and infrastructure in a community. The U-1, Crisis Monitor is a database to facilitate efforts in tracking, preventing, and mitigation political violence in America in partnership with the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project (ACLED). The U.S. Crisis Monitor reported that in 2020, 11 people in the United States were killed while participating in political demonstrations and another 14 died in incidents linked to political unrest Property damage, such as broken windows and vandalism, are also commonly reported during violent protest in the United States. VulnerabihrAnwatennwd people Most terradst attadss are primarily intended to kill and injure as many people as possible. Physical harm from a firearms attack or explosive device is not completely dependent an location, but risk is greater in areas where higher numbers of people gather. If a biological or chemical agent were released indoors, it could result in exposure to a high concentration of pathogens, whereas an outdoors release could affect many more people but probably at a lower dose. Symptoms of illness from a biological or chemical attack could go undetected for days or even weeks. local healthcare workers may observe a pattern of unusual illness or early warning monitoring systems may detect airborne pathogens. People could also be affected by an attack on food and water supply. In addition to impacts on physical health, any terrorist attack would likely cause significant stress and anxiety. Martana Eastem Pegim Hoard Mitlgatlon Pun WaN Idmtifiutim and tick Aanvnmt Similarly, most active shooters primarily target people, attempting to kill or injure large numbers of Individuals. The number of injudes and fatalities are highly variable, dependenton many factors surrounding the attack including the location, the number of type ofweapom used, the shooter's skull with weapons, the mount of people at the location, and law enforcement response time. Psychological effects of the incident on of only victims and responders but also the public, may last for years. Civil unrest and large political demmstratiom can also result in death or injuries to protestors, responders, and community members. Property The potential for damage to property is highly dependent on the type of attack. Terrorist attacks involving explosives or otherweapons, may damage buildings and infrastructure. For most attacks, impacts are highly localized to the target of the attack, although attacks could potentially have much broader impacts. Active shooter incidents rarely result in significant property damage, although crime scene measures may deny the use of targeted facilities for days after the incident Civil unrest can result in damaged property such as broken windows, vandalism, damaged vehicles, stolen property, and fires. Critical FadGtfes and Welimrs Impacts to critical infrastructure would depend on the site of the attack Short or long-term disruptions in operatiore could occur, as well as gaps in continuity of business or continuity of government depending on who the victims of the attack are, and whether a continuity plan is in place. While active shooter incidents rarely cause major property damage directly, indirect effects can be significant such as the lass of critical fadlities for days or weeks due to crime scene concems. Terrorists could disrupt communication and electric systems through cyber-attacks. Additionally, terrorism, active shooter incidents, and civil unrest an result in a drain on first responder resources and personnel for days to weeks following the incident Eciamerill, Active shooter or terrorist incidents could have signifiant economic impacts. Specific examples could include short-term or permanent dosing of the site of the attack Another economic impact could beamed by general fear- as an example, an attack in a crowded shopping center could cause potential patrons to avoid similar places and disrupt eanomic activity. Potential economic losses could include cost of repair or replacement of damaged facilities, lost economic opportunities for businesses, loss of food supplies, disruption of the food supply chain, and immediate damage to the surrounding envimnment As an m extree example, after the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in New York and Washington the US. stock market lost $1A trillion, the Gross Domestic Product of New York City lost an estimated $27 billion, and commercial air travel decreased by 2016 Hishiek and Cultural Resavnces Terrorists have been known to target sites with historic or cultural significance. Civil unrest and protests also frequently target historically or politically significant areas, such as espial buildings, which an be damaged during a civil unrest event if a protest turns violmt Additionally, active shooters an target cultural significant areas if the motive is for religious or poflical reasons. Naharel Resouces Generally, active shooter incidents would not have an impact an the natural environment Agro-terrorism or chemical terrorism could mutt in significant damage to the environment in areas near the attack These events can pollute the environment and muse nearby plants and animals to get sick or die. Contaminated material that gets into the air or water supply an affect humans further may from the incident site. Development Trends Related to Hazards and Risk The link between increased development and terrorist attacks is uncertain at best Many terrorist attacks have targeted larger metropolitan areas, so a larger population could potentially make public events more attractive targets. Population growth and development could expose more people and property to the impacts of an explosive or other large-scale attack Depending on the rmtgation behind the attack incidents will most likely be focused on sa-called'soft targets.' Protective design of buildings can reduce the risk of an active shooter indent and if one occurs, can mitigate, or reduce the impacts and number of potential victims. IGdt Sunmary In summary, the human conflict hazard is overall mall ban significance for the Region. Variations in risk by jurisdiction are summarized in the table below, followed by key issues noted in the vulnerability assessment Them were no recorded incidents of active shooters, one recorded terrorist attack, and forty-two (42) recorded civil unrest cases in the Eastern Region, most of which occurred in Billings; therefore, the ranking of frequency far human conflict is rated as occasional. • Based on potential for death, injury, and significant damage to critical infrastructure and property, magnitude is ranked as critical. Although human conflict events can occur anywhere in the Region, individual events will typically only impact localized cities. Past events indicate that these events in the Eastern Region have primarily occurred in 8 cities in the Regan; therefore, geographic extent of these events is rated as significant • Impacts on peaple from human conflict include injury and death as well as psychological damage from being in an incident Impacts on property include vandalism theft and damage. Total destruction of property is possible in the rase of an extreme terrorist attack Sugnificant economic damages are possible in the rue of a significant terrorist attack due to repairs and business closures. • In a severe human conflict case, it would be possible for significant disruption of critical facilities including loss of power, transportation interruptions, and disruption of first responders. • Unique jurisdictional vulnerability. the City of Billings experienced a disproportionate amount of civil unrest • Related Hazards: Cyber-attack Table 4-56 Risk Summary Table: Human Conflict Fastens R 'm Medium Big Hom Medium Hadin, Lodge Grass Mies Cray had four documented civil unrest rawC Grau had none Carbon Medium B.woreek Bridge, ).get F—beM Red Lodge Jokehad one dcoamented civil unrest Incident Caner Medium 9elaka WA Custer Madam hmay, Mg. City Miles City had fourdocimented civiunn:st—aii, Ismay had none Claw Tribe Medium A Daniels Med m SooFlaaviBe None Dawson Madam Richer, Gkndrve Nan. Fa1on Medium Pkvna Baker None Garfdd Medium Jordan A Gallen Va Medium R ate. Lave, None McCma Mecum Circle WA Musselshell Madam Mahlon. Roundup A PowderRM.r Low Br due A Prairie Medium Te N A Richland Medium Fairvew i5'dn Nana Monona Earmm pagkn Hand Milkelson Pun FuuN kmtifiadm aM tirt Nsearcnt R.—It gnificamce Md.. Wolf Point Popla, None Bainvile Culberson, Fro'' Rosebud Medium C.lstrip, Forsyth Lame Deer hd two civil unrest uses, neither Colstdp nor Forsydl had dmmntd human mnRct Sheridan Lox Pknty—L Med ink None Lake. 0. k, Wenhy Stilk-er Md.. Columbus A Treasure Md.. Hydiam WA Valley Law tRasgow, Fort Pack None Naha O VAbaux Law Wbaux None Y.lk— me High Billings, Bsodview, lour' Billings experienced more than hall of the ta alnd cM1 times[ Incident, in the Region athe only tworin attack Laurel had one documented civil rest ncident 42-13 Tomadces 14 Windstorms H-41Probem Description Tarnadou Tornadoes are one of the most destructive types of severeweather According to the 2018 SHMP, a tornado is a violently mtating column of air in contact with the ground and extending from the base of a thunderstorm Until 2006, tornadoes were categorized by the Fujita scale based on the tornado's wind speed. The Enhanced Fujita (EF) Salewas implemented in place of the Fujita scale and began operational e an February 1, 2007. The EF scale has six categories from zem to five representing increasing degrees of damage. It was revised to better align wind speeds doselywith associated storm damage. It also adds mare types of structures a well as vegetation, expands degrees of damage, and better accounts for variables such as differences in construction quality. The EF-scale is a set of wind estimates based on damage. It uses three -second estimated gusts at the point of damage. These estimates vary with height and exposure. Forensic meteorologists use 28 damage indicators and up to 9 degrees of damage to assign estimated speeds to the wind gusts. Table 4-57 describes the EF-scale ratings versus the previous Fujita Sale used prior to 2007 CNOAA 2007). Fujita Sale D.rwed Op.ratianal EF soul. F Number Fnbst'A mil. (mph) 3—cond gust (mph) EF Number 3—cord curt (mph) EF Number 3sacond gusta (mph) IV)rrdalonmms Windstomw represent the most common type of severe weather. Often, accompanying severe thunderstorms cause significant property and crop damage, threaten public safety, and disrupt utilities and Mm4na Gnem Peglm HaaA Mitleatlon Ran 14nA IdmdBradm and Risk Ann —in communications. Straight -fine winds are generally any wind not associated with rotation and in rare rases can exceed 100 miles per hour (mph). The N WS defines high winds as sustained wind speeds of 40 mph or greater lasting for one hour or longer, or winds of 58 mph cr greater for any duration Vindstorms are often produced by super -cell thunderstorms or a lima of thunderstoms thattipi ally develop an but and humid days According to the 2023 SHMP, high winds can occur with strong pressure gradients or gusty frontal passages. These winds an affect the entire State with wind speeds of more than 75-10J mph. For this hazard, three different classifications of windstorms were ur•,alyzed: high winds, strong winds, and thunderstorm winds. The most significant distinction between high winds and thunderstorm winds in the NCEI dataset is that high winds are most frequently reported in the winter months (December,lanuary, and February) and are recorded on a zonal scale, whereas thunderstorm winds are most reported in the summer months Uwe, July, and August) and recorded an a local county or city sale. Strong winds are another type of windstorm, which originates from thunderstorms and are any wind exceeding 58 mph. Strong winds are the least frequently documented category of wind in the Eastern Region. Despite these differences, the wind speeds and associated impacts from these winds are comparable. Wind speed an also be rated on the Beaufort wind scale (fable 4-58). The Beaufort wind scale is particularly useful for estimating wind speed in the absence of instrumentation. This HMP update uses the aforementioned NCEI wind speed classifications and data to evaluate wind hazard extent Table 4-58 Beaufort card Sale Gaographid Area Affected The spatial extent rating for both tomadoes and wind hazards is extensive. Windstorms and tornadoes an occur anywhere in the Eastem Region The rural, unpopulated areas afthe County typically experience the highest frequency of wind events due to the abundance of Bat, open land in rural areas of the region. The Montana State Hazard Mitigation Plan 2018 highlights that greatest monetary losses due to property damages are likely to occur in cities with concentrated infrastructure' Figure 4-72 and Figure 4-73 display the historic tornado and wind events in the State of Montana by region. fl9en 4•i2 Part Tuvde rra,na In Momam by napion (19ae2p21) Western Fasten Region Central Ragior Region 1J r . ° °°do n.°ar�e•-ii ....,w wri ° va.ak.a i., e8 z1' or 10 neon 6i3 who Fame In Re9bn 19 ".. Western Central Easlom Reg -� Region Region M•. t'-� a ej .. •g..u__ 4r •~ 9 ♦ o V, 2. • ,.�... ,,..,n O�r— M—n.F m Weion Hanil Mifiu6sn Ran t1+nA MmdfiuR'on and Risk Assessnxnt PM 0— The NCEI database was used to gather information on historic severe summer weather events in the Eastern Region of Montana. The NCEI data is a comprehensive list of oceanic. atmospheric, and geophysical data across the United States and aggregated by munty and zone It is important to note that weather events that occurred in Crow Tribe and North Cheyenne Tribe are also included in the datnet tables down below. However, instead of individual records, tribal data mmrds were grouped into the nearest county. The NCEI unm ique ethods of recording various hazards. High wind and strong wind are recorded by zone rather than by county and these datasets begin in 1996. Thunderstorm wind is recorded by munty, and the dataset starts in 1955. Tomadoes are also recorded by county and the dataset begins in 1950. All these datasets contain information up to March 2022. The NCH database reported 4,730 windstorm events on 1,218 days and 252 tornado events on 172 days. A summary of these events is captured in Table 4-59. In total, over $68A million was lost in property damages and over $10.6 million in crop losses. Eleven fatalities and 35 injuries were also reported in the Eastern Region It is important to note that due to the nature of the NCH data, losses from unreported events are not included in the dataset and some losses may be duplicated between counties: therefore, the real losses from severe windstorms and tornadoes are likely different than what is displayed in the table below, but estimates are useful for planning purposes. Table 4.59 Smermery of losers by Hazard in the Eastem Region Days with Deaths Injuries Property don Crop trs9 Total E-nbi The NCEI dataset reports variation in the frequency of events across the EasternRegion. Thunderstorm Winds are the most common type of windstorm event The Southern Wheatland Zone experiences the highest frequency of high wind events. Both the Southern Wheatland and Central and Southern Valley Zones also experience a high frequency of high wind evens in comparison to the other zones in the planning area. Table 4-60 and Figure 4-74 below display a summary of high wind and strong wind events byzone. Table 4-60 Total High Wind and Strong Wind Events by Zorn (1996 to 2022) Absaroka 1-d:th Mmnhhs m 3 0 e Absarnkee Beartootlh Mmnuhs m 5 0 S Beamooth Foothills o 81 0 a1 Big Horn on 12 0 12 Carter on s0 0 So CentnlAnd Southern VaE 89 4 93 C Mmntains an 3 0 1 Custer aw 41 0 43 Oenbb an 36 0 36 Dawson 78 D 78 Montana fa— Regim Haysd M bvtlon Ran H—d Idmefiradm and Ri[k Aunenam Monuna Fastam Pagbn —M Mitpatlen Ran Hauid Mendf uon+n,i Ri[k rlsnsment Eauem Cuho[ (Zon,) 18 Mill 0 Is Eastem Rooaeveh one 24 0 24 Fallon(Zone) 56 0 i5 Gadid: (zou.)_ T 83 1 Bi Gdden Wull (Zone) 23 0 23 Gdden V01 /Mussdsh Al a 5 0 5 Judith Gap one) 69 0 69 MCCone w 65 0 65 M 57 0 57 Nm 16 0 16 Northern Rosebud (Zone) 49 0 49 Northern Stillwater on 71 0 71 Northern Vap 29 0 29 powderRiver on 17 0 17 Prairie(Zone) 37 0 37 Red Lodge Foothills one 21 0 21 Roosevelt on 9 0 9 RoseWd an 8 0 a Sheridan one) 61 0 6t Swthen Btl Hom on 33 0 33 Southern Rosebud m 14 0 14 Southern Wheatland on 101 0 tot sdllwater(Zone 2 0 2 Sbil-ter arbor on 13 0 13 van 10 0 10 Western Roosevelt en 44 0 44 Wheatland m z a z Vfieatlx snd/Psrk/Swxt Gass on M 0 4! Wbauon e 39 0 39 Yeewssto r, m 72 0 n To. 1.492 5 1,497 Mor— faoem Region Hanrd MM,p000 Ran Mauro! Idmtifiadon nd Risk --en, Fgun 4-74 Total High Wind and Strong Wind E-nu by Zen. (1996 to 2022) Number of Events 0 20 40 60 80 SOE aBS KA/81ARmOTHMOON.M(zo.1) r 485An7CFF /BFARmYJ1H MOON.(XNE) a mom". jac.n N N0.(a1NF) fARTFRRONE) �— CENnIaLaNOSOtmaul(ONE) cRaivxouNTAMSxr4,as(20NE) . CYSTER(a7NE)- O4MELSRONE) DAWSON(7ONE1 FASNR ILTRO F45NRN IO FRONE) ALLON xu, (MNE) G4uRt9aaaaaa�>_ I7oNn Gol0FN V4lLLY ROHE) CALDFN VaLEY/M[SALSHELL uo(ZONE) y rm xn xKN.E(Mx[Ia3NE) MIISSEl5Xfl No—'. BIGHORNp..) ROHEI oar - •r ..EdloOSE811DIFONn NO—'. STRLWnTERRONEI NORMEPNOMI31Nn rowotR"N (Mw) aaaaaaa� PMWEROHn REOIOWEf00m,was ROWMtTj.KjTImxFI �>• . ROSFWo (ZONE) aaTr SHEWD4NIMNn SODm—WHOPN(LoNn SODfHfRNrosEBuofw F) SOVfNFRN Wx WATERRONn ST,1WaNRRONn � SrsVMAUW MNRONn V4ItEYRONt) a.s WESTERN POOSEVE1TImtal WHEAT (Z. f) 'WHEAT HV/Putr/SMUGMS(ZONEI woA RONE) Nu0H5rom RONn ■High Wiod ■StmnBwlnd Sour. Nm, Chan by wSP 120 Similar to high wind and strong wind, there are variation in thunderstorm wind and tornado events between counties in the Eastern Region Valley Countyexperienced the greatest number of recorded events in both thunderstorm wind and tornado events. In total, there were 3,233 thunderstorm wind events since 1955 and 252 tomado events since 1950 in the Eastern Region. Table 4-61 displays a summary of these !Vents. Table 4.61 Total Thunrdarstoms Wind and Tonude Events by County Dig Moon Co. 123 11 C,:bon Co. 28 3 C,—Co. 105 18 Cucte-Co. 215 B D.rws Co. 69 9 Dawson Co. 20S 15 Fanoo Co. 91 14 Garfidd Co. 221 12 Golden Valley Co. 14 0 MCC —Co. 161 9 Musuhhen Co. 43 5 Powder River Co. 121 18 Praide Co. 102 3 Richland Co. 192 13 Roosevelt Co. 236 16 Rosebud Ca 172 9 Sheridan Co. 107 10 SU—ter C. 66 1 Treawn Co. 47 17 V.kv Co. 512 39 Wheatland Co. 23 7 1Vlbaux Co. 761 B YeBawstone Co. 300 1 21 Told 32n 1 252 Figure 4-75 and Figure 4-76 display crop and property losses by county from tornado and thunderstorm wind events. According to the dataset, Roosevelt County experienced the highest property loss and Dawson and Garfield Counties experienced the greatest crop loss from thunderstorm wind events. Yellowstone County experienced the greatest property loss from tomado events. Montana Fasrem Region H of Mitig— Pun NavM Idenufiraum+M Rh Asersment Figure 4-7S Total Losses from Thunderstorm Wind by County ■Pnpemr Loses ■Crop Loses Big Ham Ceunry Carbon County 1 Goer County Custer County Daniels County Dawsonc,unty Falb, County Gadleld C-.V Gdden Valley County MoC—County M-1,1,01 County Powder River County Paid, County Rirhund County Rooev.h County Rosebud County I Shedd,n County St9lwater County I Treasure County �( Wit, County — Wheatand County %loam County Yelbwstorw County v 5 scot yoppys 0.'rip V.'do S,o�dA S-', Nat Dud by MP Mmana E— W— HennlMideadon Han HUM Idmdfi,edm and Hsk Aaanr nmt M.— Fasten Panics H—M Mtboxmn Han Haab bmdfiudon aM Rnk lusessment Figure 4.76 Total Losses (ram Tornadoes by County G S Parn Ceur+V I •CroVeny Lnsu •Crop.c;s!s carbon ro-,.,y [araC•;unty 1 C•.ssar CcumY 1 Daniell ccwty Dawson Counry Fallon Cowry � Gadield County Goldin VA, C...y Mcc—Canty ■ Musseahell County Powdm aver C.—y ■ - PnirleCountV I Richland County I noosevek County W Rosebud Counry Sheridan Counry 1 Stdiwner County Treasure Canty 1 vallryc—ry ■ Wh-land C-nly Yelbwaone Counry 9 000 SSDtWPp Sy.6p?� �tpp>� �. apt �dpifp 53bgfpf� Sourer NCB. Mart by WSP The NCEI reported details on significant events in the Eastern Region: • July 13, 2005: A severe bow, echo raced from west to east across Roosevelt County and caused extensive damage from Poplar to Culbertson between 8 and 9 pm. Various properties and crops suffered from severe damage, including but not limited to two hangers from the airport were blown off; quite a few vehicles were blown off track homes and businesses suffered roof and siding damage; large grain bins were destroyed; many trees were also damaged. This event resulted in S3M of property damage. • Novemberl2,2007.Astrong cold trontmoved auoss Western Mantanaandproduced heavymowfall and high winds in the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains as well as high winds in the Anaconda and Deer Lodge areas. This event resulted in 5650,000 of property damage and 2 injuries. • June 20, 2010: A very moist and unstable atmosphere was in place across portions of the Billings Forecast area during the afternoon and evening of the 20th. A moist, southeast surface flow, strong M,atana E.— Regim Haan! Mbnadon Han Huard Idmdfudan aed Risk NauunM wind shear aloft and ample afternoon heating provided the necessary ingredients for severe weather. Numerous thunderstorms, some of which became rapidly severe producing tornadoes and large hail, developed across South Central Montana. Debris from an arena impacted other nearby businesses creating additional damage, mainly in the form of broken windows. Debris from the arena was reported to have landed as far away as a mile from the tomado touchdown. This event resulted in S30M of Property damage. • July 21,2015: A1aw-pressure circulation over southeastern Montana; favorable winds, and warm, moist air all combined with an approaching strong upper -level storm system quickly developed and maintained well -organized severe thunderstorms over many locations; there was also a maomburst in the Glendive area. This event resulted in $2.5M of property damage. September 28. 2019: Strong east winds developed on the western side of the Whitefish and Mission ranges as high pressure settled into north -central Montana resulting in considerable damage. Severe wind caused various damages, including but not limited to damages to trees and powerlines; power outages that lasted for almost two days for thousands of customers; boat and dock damage as waves reached certain heights This event resulted in $300.000 in property damage. FsigsrncyNikdilood of Ommulo According to the NCEI datase0 there has been 4,982 total recorded severe windstorm and tomado events aR 1,390 days over the past 72 years in the Eastern Region; therefore, there is an average of nearly 20 days with severe wind and tomado events per year in the planning area. This corresponds to a highly likely prohabilityofoccurrence. , -- Strong wind is the least documented type of windstorm in the Region and thunderstorm winds are the most common. Based on the NCEI dataset tornadoes are likely to occur somewhere in the Region around 35 times a year on average. Valley County experienced the greatest number of recorded events in both thunderstorm wind and tomado events The highest number of high wind events occur in the Southern Wheatland and Southern and Central Valley zones. Fgure 4-T7 below depicts the annualized frequency of tomada events at a manly level based on the NRI. The mapping shows a wend towards increased likelihood in the western and southern regions, particularly in Valley and Garter Counties. Counties in the eastern and northeastern parsons of the Region have a relatively law. Frequencyof tomado evune. r•gure 4.78 below depicts the annualized frequency of strong wind events at a county level based on the NRL A majority afdle counties in the reg'on are ranked as moderate and moderate w high frequency, with the highest frequencyof events occurring in McCune. Richland, and Dawson Counties. now.a-n <mudu Fri ..nry of Tonutlo Fresh by Counry Western Cantml Ea. Region Region 1 y Ro Nwra.r,.•,•., '-"naeo+o Ann t♦ aoe•ev t♦aa•ou Ma MwsP.om sevnxFawu+m.IRSEs•-!__».,. _ _ _ As. -1a A. fund Fr ...,of strong - Erma q-i, YYestem G� sii g- Il�gao ee� h a. va If a trend cumanay eases. Ine rnm waaorim -ate Assessment noes not arecay aaafess c9mate-cnange impacts on summertime wind. This assessment also did not suggest a trend in wind conditions exists, nor is anticipated. Additionally, the 2021 Montana Climate Change and Human Health report does not directly address the issue of summertime high winds. Interestingly, this report discusses an increase in wind osian of soil in wheat production, but attributes this to increased summer draught and changing precipitation patterns, without mention of changes in wind conditions. Potential impacts are discussed in the wlnerability subsection of this hazard profile, as well as the impacts of population changes and development trends. Current variability invulnerability byjurisdiction, based on edsting conditions, is discussed in these sections and jurisdictional annexes. Due to the uncertainty with climate change on tomadom and windstorms, it would be speculative to define with further specificity the impacts related to climate change an eadhjurisdiction within the Region Future updates to this plan should revisit this topic as scientific knowledge progresses. Pot-lial Magriltude curd Severity To calculate a magnitude and severity rating for comparison with other hazards, and to assist in assessing the overall impact of the hazard on the planning area, information from the event of record is used as well as the Beaufort Wind Sule (see Table 4-58). In some rases, the event of record represents an anticipated wont -use scenario, and in others, it reflects common occurrence. While it is possible these estimates are greater than actual losses due to potential duplicates in the datwet, these losses provide an understanding of the likely magnitude in the planning area. Overell, windstorm or tomado impacts in Eastern Region are generally Gitiul. While wind occurs rather frequently in the area, most events "use little to no damage. The impact on quality of life or crib"I facilities and functions in the affected area would be minimal. Injuries or deaths are possible due to wind -thrown trees in the backwuntry or from other blown debris. %%d—bility Aces .t Other populations vulnerable to tornado and wind hazads induda the elderly, low-income arlinguistically isolated populations, ph.•ople with hfe-threatening illnesses, and residents living in areas that are isolated from major roads. Power outages due to severe wind or tornadoes can be life -threatening to those dependent on electricity, for life support These populations face isolation and exposure during thunderstorm wind, high wind, and tornado events and could suffer more secondary effects of the hazard. Oveall however, the vulnerability of people to tomado and wind hazards is low P-P�Y Exposure to windstorms and tornadoes is low throughout most of the planning area, property in poor condition or in particularly vulnerable locations may be susceptible to damage when these hazards do occur_ Property located at higher elevations and on ridges may be more prone to wind damage. Property located under or nearoverhead powerlines oriarge trees may be damaged in the event of a collapse. Older buildings in the planning area may be built to low code standards or none at all, making them more susceptible to severe wind and tomado events. Mobile homes are disproportionately at risk due to the design of homes. Tornadoes often create flying debris which can cause damages to homes, vehicles, and landscape. In the Eastern Region, property damages due to wind and tornadoes totaled over S68AM. Reported impacts from high wind in the planning area include damage to trees, mobile homes, roofs, power lines, and vehicles. Gitimf Focilities and tifefirues Transportation is susceptible to wind and tomado caused blockage of roads by downed trees or power lines. Of particular concern are reads providing access to isolated areas and the elderly. Temporary loss of utilities, most notably power, is a susceptibility. Downed power fines can cause blackouts, leaving large areas isolated, which was reported several times in the NCEI dataseL Phone, water, and sewer system service can be interrupted. loss of phone connection, cellular or landline, would leave populations isolated and unable to call for assistance. Economy Exposure of the economy of the Eastern Region toil effects is somewhat different for tomado and windstorm hazards. Windstorms are more frequent in the Eastern Region and have less intense impact over a wider area. In contrast, tornadoes are relatively rare, effect a relatively small area, but have a well - deserved reputation for causing intense destruction over a relatively narrow area. Both hazards expose local economies to potential property damage, business closures, lass of services such as power and transportation displacement of people, loss of tourism and difficult to predict cascading effects. However, the economy is exposed to these factors somewhat differently depending on the storm type. For example, tornadoes are more likely to cause displacement of people, while windstorms can cumulatively cause very expensive damage, especially to housing. In addition, the economy of the Eastern region is susceptible to damage from exposures such as property damage, business closures, loss of services such as paver and transportation displacement of people, and loss of tourism. The economy is also susceptible to cascading effects caused by these exposures. tomado hazards in all Eastern Region counties. The EAL calculation takes into account agriculture value exposed to these events, annualized frequency, and historical losses. The EAL rating is thus heavily based on agricultural impacts. Figure 4-81 NRI Strong Wind Expected Am uaT Los Rating Westam Foam R Ion Central u� � Region ... e.. .. Mmtam Eastern R•gim Hoard Mio'gamon Ran Heard Id.dfiatim aM NO, — .- MmYN Ei— H it Mitigation Mn NaraN Idendfiaem •M Risk -.—I Figure 4-82 NRI Tornado Events Gga.cted Annual Loss Rating Western 1-1 Eastern e..•rrersa car. Map by MI, 0aY Soso FEMA Natimd Nsklnda+ hnoc_rA—, lama awJnnJdnamdr�no-�zk Historic and Cultural Resource Historic and cultural resources are exposed to tomadom and windstorms simil arty to other assets. In teens of susceptibility, historic buildings are typically built to old building codes or no codes at all and are more likely to sustain damage than newer buildings. This causes historic buildings and their contents to be more vulnerable to windstorms and tornadoes than newer buildings. Historic assets within newer buildings, such as a more recently built museum, are likely no more vulnerable to windstorm and tornadoes that non - historic assets. Natural Resources The environment is highly exposed to severe winds and tomadoes. Large swaths of tree blowdowns can occur, particularly in the beetle -killed forests prevalent in the region. Severe winds an spread wildfire or even triggerwili fire nearoverhead power lines. Crops are also at risk of losses. The NCEI datmet reported over $10.6 M in crop losses from windstorm and tornado events in the Eastern Region. Development Trends Related to Hazards rand Ris4 NI future development will be a posed to severe winds and tornadoes. The abifity to withstand impacts fies in sound land use practices and comistent enforcement of codes and regulations for new construction. Development regulatians that require safe rooms, basements, or other structures that reduce risk to people would decrease vulnerabifitybut may not be cost-effective given the relative infrequency of damaging tornadoes in the Eastern Region. The State of Montana has adopted the 2012 International 8uilding Code IBC The IBC includes a provision that buildings must be constructed to withstand a wind load of 75 mph comtant veladty and threesecond Mmtana Eastern Region Hoard Mitigation Ran Heard Idaitifiutim and Pis* assesanen[ gusts of 90 mph. Buildings must be designed to withstand a snow load of 30 pounds per square foot minimum. Wes Summary In summary, We tomadoes and windstorms hazard are considered to be of overall high signiriance for the Region. with key issues summarized below. Variations in risk by jurisdiction are summarized in the table below. • Severe windstorms (high wind, strong wind, thunderstorm wind) and tomado events are rated as having high overall significance far the Eastern Region These events an impact anywhere in the planning region; therefore, the hazard extent is rated as iiud"vs. The NCEI data reported 1,390 days with severe weather events over 72 years, which averages to nearly 20 days a year with severe winter weather events In the Eastern Region; therefore, future occurrence is rated as highly likely. • The NCEI reported ll deaths, 35 injuries, over S68A million in property damages and over$10.6 million in crop damages, therefore, the magnitude is rated as critical. People who are dependent on electricity and populations who work outdoors or in transportation are most vulnerable to severe windstorm events and tornadoes. Individuals living in mobile homes are also disproportionately likely to experience losses from wind and tomado events Power outages and damage to buildings are frequently reported impacts to property of severe windstorm events ssd tornadoes. ' • Downed power lines resulting in communication and electricity failures are the most common impacts on critical facilities. • Significant economic losses are possible in the event of a severe windstorm or tornado due to infrastructure repair and business/service disruptions. • Related Hazards: Wildfire, Severe Summer Weather, Severe Winter Weather, Transportation Accidents East—R Medum- Big Han Mod m Hardin, Lodge Grass None Carbon Medum Bearcreek Bddgenldiet F—ber9,RW Lod e None Carter Medium Ekalaka None Custer Med m Itm . Miles Qy None Crow Tube Hioh None Daniels Medum Scob ,Fl fle None Dawson High Rkli GlendIve There have been a higher member of wind events that flaked in lass.In Dawson Coun Fallon Med m Plevm, Baker None Garfield Medium lawdan There have been a higher comber of wind —1 diet resulted in loss. inGarfield Ca G.ldxnV.l1W Medium Ryegme, Lavin None MCC— Medium Circle There have been a higher member of wind events that resulted in loss. n M<Co_ Coon Musselshell M. r m Mehtme. Nona Roundua Pow.dar Wet Medium aroulus Nor. Prairie hledum Tenv Nate Richland Medium - iwv S'Mn- None Rocserett High 'Nod Paint There have been a higher number of wind events tlut Poplar, Bainvifle. —shed I.;.. in Roosevelt County Culbeo— Froid Rosebud Medium Cohrd ForsythNone Sheridan Med m Hentywood None Medicine Lake, Outlook Wes StiBwrter Medico C.L.hus Nane Treasure Medium Hirst. None V.by High Glasgow, Port There hoe been a higher number of wind events that Pack Nashua —Red n loss. in VaBry County helm Wibaux Medium Wib.. None YaEuwdona High Billings, There have been higher number of wind events that a madv'lew, n Iawkedinlosses in Yeflowstone County I.=Laurel 4.2.14 Trar.portation Accfdants Havind/Prohkm O—iption This harard encompasses air transportation, highway transportation, waterway transportation, railway transportation and wild animal vehicle collisions. The transportation incidents an involve any mode of transportation that directly threatens life and which results in property damage and/or death(s)Arjury(s) and/or adversely impact a community's capabilities to provide emergency services. Incidents involving buses and other high occupancy vehicles could trigger a response that exceeds the normal day -today capabilities of response agencies. Air Tromportation An air transportation incident may involve a military, commercial or private aircraft. Airplanes and helicopters are used to transport passengers for business and recreation as well as thousands of tons of cargo. A variety of circumstances can result in an air transportation incident mechanical failure, pilot error, enemy attadr, terrorism, weather conditions and on -board fire an all lead to an air transportation incident Highway Transportation Highway transportation incidents are complex Contributing factors an include a roadways design and/or pavement conditions (e.g. rain snow, and ice), a vehicles mechanical condition (e.g, tires, brakes, rights), a drivers behavior (e.g, speeding, inattentiveness, and seat belt usage), the driver's condition (e.g, alcohol use, age -related conditions, physical impaimhenU and driver inattention by using a wireless device. In fact the drivers behavior and condition factors are the primary cause in an estimated 67 percent of highway oashes and a contributing factor in an estimated 95 percent of all mashes. Rod—yT si—ofil- A railway transportation incident is a train accident that directly threatens life and/or property, or adversely impacts a community's capabilities to provide emergency services. Railway incidents may include ManYna Eii.m.,,ion W M-1,13on Pon HaaM Idmtifiutim aM Rkk Aaesamnt derailments, collisions and highway/rail crossing accidents. Train incidents an result from a variety of causes, human error, mechanical failure, faulty signals, and/or problems with the track Results of an incident an range from minor -track hops' to catastrophic hamrdow material incidents and even humarVanimal casualties. Wolerwv • Transportation A waterway incident is an accident involving any water vessel that threatens rife, property, or adversely affects a communitys capability to provide emergency services. Waterway incidents primarily involve pleasure watercraft on rivers and lakes. Waterway incidents may also include events in which a person, persom, or object falls through the ice on partially frozen bodies of water. Impacts include fuel spillage, drowning, and property damage. KddAnL7.1 Vehicle Collisions Wild animal vehicle collisions comist of any roadway transportation accident where an animal is involved in the accident These accidents typically occur at dusk from 6pm-9pnt when deer and other wildlife are most active and when the vkibirity of drivers decreases. Deer are the most common wild animal involved in roadway transportation accidents in the United States and in the Eastem Region. C—gmphiral Arse Alfsutsd All counties in the Eastern Region are prone to transportation incidents. Due to transportation accidents typically occurring along roadways, waterways, or near airports, the significance rating for the geographic area affected in the Eastern Region is rated as sigrvRrant (ID-SD%of planning area). Roads with fi equently reported roadway transportation accidents in the Eastern Region include Highway 4 Highway 12. U.S. Route 191, Interstate 90, and Interstate 94. The BNSF railway is the most significant railway running through the Eastern Region; therefore, the counties that contain the BNSF railway will be more likely to experience railway accidents. The Eastem Region is also home to Billings Logan International Airport as well as several smaller regional or general aviation airports, any of which could be the location of an aircraft accident However, documented aircraft crashes have happened across the planning aea and are most frequently documented as being small civilian aircrafts. PM 0— Air Tmnspormrian /ncidentsu The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) reported 505 air transportation incidents in the Sate from 1964 to 2018. Figure 4-83 displays the annual trends of total fatal air transportation accidents. The greatest number of incidents were reported in 20D6 with 32 total incidents. Since 2001, there has been a significant increase in the number of events reported Most crashes have been small, private planes. Small Cessna and Piper a'ucrafts were frequently reported in the daaset Mmana U— aeglm Haam Miuq,t Ran Montana Eastem eagbn H—M My— Na, Homed IdmrO.a'm and NAAss— Figure 4.83 Annual Aircraft Incidents in the State of Montana Figure 4.85 Roadway Crash Severity in Montana (2011.2020) stirs \\ 'rs.6.w ryrr<ua 1+1 UW l4 �e�pnYpnn Uan �IIIIIt1111�1 II IIIIII IIIIIIIII tw Iv rev as nn .m nrr Ins m rws ao ran awl a wr wa .ma erns rqa axe twr avla mu cos resr � �/ Sartc msa.aun gwse Highway Transportation Incident: The Montana Department of Transportation's Office of Traffic and Safety maintains traffic crash statistics and location maps by county. Table 4 63 and Figure 4-84 shows the trend of crashes in the Eastern Region between 2016 and 2020. This dataset was extracted from the MDT's Crash Database compiled for the purpose of safety enhancement of potential accident sites, hazardous roadway conditions, or railway - highway crossings. The dataset has reported 26,984 road transportation events over the course of 4 years across the counties in the EasternRegion. Yellowstone County had the greatest number of reported crash events by far, with a total of 16,475 reported events, comprising fit%of the total incidents in the Region from 2016- to 2020. Table 4.63 Roadway Crash Statistics by County in the Eastern Region (2016.2020) Mmtana Eastem "g" Hoard Mltlgadgn Ran Hoard ldmufirrd—d Fisk Assazvnenr Figure 4-34 Roadway Crash Statistics by County in the Eastem Region (2016.2020) I6000 toot -- - -- — 14000 --. - .-- 12000 e000 6000 4000 20)0 g — . — .._V.L..—I - - 464�0 �13: pv��a S cr�4+p�t� Swrcc Mmtana UapwnmtarTn�o,tatlm Ml6.3@0 The Montana DoT also reported crash severity from 2011 to 2020 for the entire state of Montana. Figure 4-85 displays the temporal trends of crash severity. Throughout the state, accidents with no injury are most commonly reported, followed by accidents with minimal injuries. Since 2011, 499 fatal crashes have been reported across Ole state and 858 serious injury crashes. There is an average afA9.9 fatal crashes per year in the 5 tate of Montana. a :glt Mli AIS Nta MI5 l Sowce: Mmtana Department d Tmnsponadm WI I-2020 Wddlift CarAacidanb The Montana DoT also documented the number of accidents caused by wildlife and the animal carcasses recovered. Montana DoT emphasbes that this dataset is best used to identify patterns in wildfire or accidents, but the data 4 incomplete due to not all carcasses being reported on a regular schedule or some amasses not being reported at all. According to the Montana DoT dataset, there were 28,652 wildlife or accidents from 2016 WON. figure 4-86 displays the animal carcass data by county in Montana. Most of the Eastern Region has experienced between 1-348 wildlife or accidents, however, Carbon, Custer, and Dawson County have experienced significantly more. Flqun 0.a6 Wldgfa[naa atatinicgrnunry In Monn,u t20f 6.202g) Weetem e....�.... Central Gft.w. 1 c.re.C— 1 p l .ace oN - o �. Iw.riv ooi. wpgrnr I Mmum Eaaem Paglm Hmrd mldsa on M. Haerd Idendfiudm and Nsk Aaessmerh Figum4-87 displays a breakdown of the crashes by species of animal involved. Whitetail deer was by far the most reported animal with 19203 incidents in the past 4 years, followed by mule deer in second place Wth 6,826 reported incidents. Figure 4.81 Wildlife trash Statistic by Carcass Type in the Mont.-(2016.2020) -(ea f W unh f j ,vuM 4ea T = an _ etx ■ — ■ a : ,r r Mg ,° r � [ �< <,, ��. rj��.�r �{- ,• .. Swrte worn.,,. o.pw.,.nws,wp.,uua,xota-xoxa r The Montana DOT also reported on the date that these wildlife accidents occurred. Figure 4-88 displays the temporal trends of these crashes. The greatest frequency of events occurs in the months of October and November. This is likely because deer mating season occurs at this time of year and therefore, they are more active and likely to wonder onto roadways. Accidents with deer are most likely to occur from 6 pm — 9 pm due to the crepuscular nature of deer, meaning that they are most active during twilight Montana Enna. Pagion Hva,d Mingatbn Plan Nawd laan0(eadm eM Risk Assessment Fnqu.my/{R s,19—d of 0-- Overal( transportation accidents are all but certain to occur an a yearly basis; therefore, the frecl—cyAikelihood of occurrence is rated as highly likely for the Eastern Region. Air traffic overall is more limited and any planes that crash are likely to be small planes with no more than a pilot and potentially one to a few passengers. Howevsr, since there are many commercial planes that fiy over the Eastern Region, there is always a chance for a mjar crash. More people are utilizing au travel now than in the past The NTSB documented 505 aircraft accidents over 54 years, which averages over 9 aircraft accidents per year across the region. The trend of increasing numbers of people flying is likely to continue as will the crowdecimss of airports and the skies above Montana Although traffic engine,ering, inspection of traffic facilities, land use management of areas adjacent to roads and highways, and the readiness of local response agencies have increased, highway incidents will continue to occur. As the volume of traffic an the states streets, highways, and interstates increases, the number of traffic accidents will likely also increase. The combination of large numbers of people a the mad, wildlife, unpredictable weather conditions, potential mechanical problems, and human error always leaves the potential for a transportation accident open. Local jurisdietiom sheukl continue to look at where traffic signals and speed limit changes are needed to protect the public Montana DaT reported 26,984 roadway traffic accidents from 2016 to 2020 in the Eastern Region, or an average of 6,746 accidents per year. Collisions involving wildlife is commonly reported in Montana. The Montana DoT camas database reported 28,652 accidents resulting in an animal carcass from 2016 to 2020, or an average of 7,163 accidents a year. Many ponds, rivers, and lakes are used for recreation including angling, boating, and swimming. The number of users of Montana lakes and rivers is increasing with increased tourism and population growth in the area. Minor incidents involving one or two boats and/or individuals an occur that tie up response resources and cause death and injury are possible but unlikely each year. Incidents will be recreational - related, as opposed to tramportation-related, because the waterways are too small to support barges. Waterway accidents are less likely to occur than roadway incidents. However, the US. Cowl Guard reported 82 waterway accident events from 2017 tu 2021 across the State of Montana, or an average of 16 events peryear. Based an the available information, the probability of air transportation highway, waterway, or railway incident that directly threatens fife and which results in property damage and/or death(s)Anjury(s) and/or adversely impact a communitys capabilities to provide emergency services is 'Highly Likely as mgltiple occurrences happen each year. CK-11. Cluing. Considerations If projections regarding milder winters come to fruition, climate change impacts may reduce the number of transportation incidents associated with some severe weather. However, if ice occurs, rather than snow, this could result in higher incidents of weather -related accidents. Extreme beat an also impact the performance of motorvehicies, especially planes (McFadden, 2021). Increasing temperatures due to climate change could therefore pose threat to aircrafts. Potential Magnitude and Sntha)ly The U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration issued a technical advisory in 1994 providing suggested estimates of the cost of traffic crashes to be used for planning purposes. These figures were converted from 1994 dollars to 2020 dollars The costs are listed below in Table 4-65. Injuries and deaths are also impacts of transportation accidents. While transportation accidents are frequent in the Eastern Region, most accidents result in minor property injuries to vehicles irwoWed; therefore, the magnitude ranking for transportation incidents in Eastern Region is Iiri Mmtana Eastern.91m Hannt MitJ1tbn Plan Montam Eastam w91m HaoN Miii a.n plan Harard Identifivamand Fits— Haant Mendloi aM Nsk Asses 1 Figure 4-88 Wildlife Crash Statistic by Month in Montana (2016-2020) Table 4-65 Costs of a Traffic Crash tan Fatal $4,645.467 Eviden S64,32 .,moo I Pcssible $33,948 Pos[ibk In' 533,949 priperty Damage OnS3.573 tmn ■ Saone US DOTF-1 highway Mininistnbo Tadmlot Adh" T75702, 1194Adrysbd a 20M.dam 0 NiLdr .b8ity Assn—s it s xm 5 Swnr. Mmum Depeemnt WT.-s naamxma-xme Waterway Timensporhation Incidents Montana has a number of gladal-fed lakes and free -flowing rivers that provide opportunities for tourism I'd recreation. Several major rivers in the Eastern Region include the Yellowstone River and Missouri River. Fort Peck Lake also provides space for outdoor recreation in the Eastern Region. With extensive opportunities for water recreation in the state, there are msodated risks including boating accidents and drownings. The U.S. Coast Guard documents annual recreational boating statistics across the United States. Table 4-64 below displays information from the annual reports for the State from 2017 to2021. In total, 82 accidents have been reported in Montana over the past 5 years, resulting in 32 deaths and 41 injuries, as well as $450,92595 in property damages. Tobits 4.64 Year Boating Accidents by Year in Montana (2017-2021) Nwmbar o/Arddma Rnorta lmolved Total Fetal N.- D male Total Deaths F—J In)und Damages people All people are vulnerable to transportation accidents in the Eastern Region. Travelers, truckers, delivery personnel, and commuters are always at risk on the mad. During rush hours and holidays the number of people on the road is significantly higher. This is also true before and after major gatherings such as sporting events, cdoncerts, and conventions. Pedestrians and bystanders of the community are less vulnerable unless they are in the madway. Any individual incident will have a direct impact on only a few people. Inviduas involved in a tramportation accident an have cuts, bruises, broken banes, loss of limbs, and death It is also common for individuals involved in an accident to experience psychological effecs from is severe accident Not all people are equally vulnerable to transportation incidents. According to a study, An Analysis of Traffic Fatalities by (face and Ethnicity 2021, by the Governors Highway Safety Association, found that traffic fatalities are more common in low-income areas and among Native and Black Americans. The study found that in 2020, total traffic deaths in the United States rose by 7296, but total traffic deathsamongBlade Americans increased by 23%. The study reported several reasons for this, including poor road quality in low-income areas, pedestrians being disproportionally Black and members of the low-income population being unable to stay home from work during the pandemic P-p" All property is vulnerable to transportation accidents, including the modes of transportation themselves and all associated equipment Roadway accidents an impact surrounding infrastructure, including surrounding buildings, poles, or guardrails. Raihvay accidents frequently result in damages to the railway tracks which an be expensive to repair and result in delays in the transportation of goods.Aircraft accidents frequently result in damaged or destroyed planes, as well as damage to infrastmctum in the landing area. Boating incidents an cause extensive damage to ships, bridges, and dodos. Critical Facilities, and Wistines Transportation accidents an result in delayed responses for emergency vehides and severe or multi -car accidents can put a strain on response services and hospital capacity. The transportation of goods an also be delayed due to road dosures from an accident Power outages are also possible due to damages infrastructure. lr-y There are significant economic impacts likely to result from transportation accident. Cost of repairing properly and hospital bills for those impacted by the accident can be substantial. The U.S. DoT reported the estimated cost of a fatality is over 54.6 million in damages. Additionally, lost revenue from business disruptions and disruptions in the transportation of goods an be significant Nistoric and Cufhrral Resources Historic and cultural resources are equally vulnerable to transportation accidents as other types of property. Natumf Resource The impact of transportation accident to natural resources are typically minimal These accident can result in debris and fuel leakage into the environment which an harm the surrounding a asysterr, Trees and _ Montana Eastern Wglm -eel! Mesa— tan HoundtJ—f.i.and Risk,%a, nil other landscaping an be damaged when a vehicle leaves the roadway. Wildlife is also at risk to injury or death due to vehicles on the road. Significant threat to natural resources could occur if a transportation accident involving hazardous materials occurs. Development Trends Related to Hamrds and Risk Increasing roadway Infrastructure and number of ars on the road will like+/ result in en increase in the umber of transportation accidents in the Eastem Region. Increase in air travel is likely to continue and themfom the increase in number of aircraft disasters. Construction and re -muting of local mods also increases the chances of a traffic accident Ir.k Surnmary in summary, the transportation accidents hazard is considered to be overall medium sigmficance for the Region. Variations in risk byjurisdiction are summarized in the table below, as well as key issues noted in the vulnerability assessment • Theseevents typically impact areas along roadways, railways, waterways, or near airports; therefore, the hazard extent is rated as significant • The data sources used for each type of transportation accidents reported significentty more than one accident a year, therefore, frequency is rated as highly likely. • While transportation accidents commonly occur, most accidents impact only the people and vehicles involved and therefore magnitude is ranked as limited. e People who work in transportation and spend extensive time an the mad, such as truckdrivers ardeliver drivers, are most likely to experience transportation accidents. Studies have found that Blade and Native Americans are disproportionately likely to be involved in a transportation accidents and acddents are mare likely to occur in low-income areas. • Transportation accidents are likely to cause damage to the vehicles involved as well as surrounding infrastructure First responder services may be delayed due to multi -car pileup accidents or significant train derailments • Significant economic losses an result from business interruptions due to delays in the transportation of goods and from repairs to tramportation vehicles and infrastructure. • Critical infrastructure sudn as bridges and major roads can be blocked off or dosed due to major madway accidents. Railroads can also be dosed for extended periods of time due to track damage, which would limit the movement of goods in and out of the areas impacted. • The frequency of transportation accidents is frequent across jurisdictions, but some counties such as Yellowstone County are likely to experience greater losses due to larger populations and greater concentration of transportation systems. a Related Hazards: Hazardous Materials Accident Table 4-66 Riek Saanmery Table: Tremporbition Aaddents Additional Eastern R 'an Mecum Big Hom Low Hardin, Lodge Grass Railway In Big Hom County. through Hardin and Lesliz.Grass Carbon Lox Bear—ek Bridge, Joliet. Fmnberg, Red Lodge N/A Carter Lwv Ekalaka N/A Custer tow Ismay, Miles City Railway through Miles City; 1-94 crosses county Montana us—p.gion Haean Mrcgaton Mn t nil Ideraduaon and Rba Ass.asmmt activity and has experienced the effects ofvolanic activity w recently as 1980 during the eruption of Mount St Helens in the State of Washington. Based on the evidence of past activity, volcanoes can be considered 'active','darmnt', or'utinct"Active' volcanoes usually have evidence of emption during historic times. Volcanoes have a wide degree of vadabiliry in their emptions, from mild lava flows to large explosions that eject tans of material and ash into the air. The degree of volcano hazard depends largely on if the volcano has a reasonable probability of empting, the mtum of the eruption, and the associated hazards that may be triggered. There are 20 active or potentially active volcanoes in the United States. The two valanic centers affecting Montana in recent geologic time are: 1) the Cascade Range of Washington, Oregon, and California; and 2) the Yellowstone Caldem in Wyoming and eastern Idaho. Based on the historic trends of past eruptions, volcanic eruptions in the Cascade Mountains are morelikely to impact Montana than Yellowstone eruptions. The primary effect of the Cascade volcanic eruptions in Montana would be ash fail The distribution of ash from a violent eruption is a function of the weather, particularly wind direction and speed and atmospheric stability, and the duration of the eruption. As the prevailing wind in the mid - latitudes of the northern hemisphere is generally from the west volcanic ash 'a usually spread eastward from We volcano. Exceptions to this rule do, however, occur. Ash fall, because of its potential widespread distribution can result in significant volcanic hazards According to the U.S. Geological Survey, Yellowstone National Park has been identified as a prominent hot spot for geologic activity. The hot spot is presumed to exist under the continental vest in the region of Yellowstone National Park and rorthwestem Wyoming. Large calderas under the park were produced by three gigantic eruptions during the past two million years, the most recent of which was approximately 600,000 years ago. That particular volcanic emption blasted molten mck into the air at 1,000 times the volume of the 1980 Mount St Helen's eruption subsequently collapsing to create the Yellowstone Caldera (Tracking Charges in Yellowstone's Restless Volcanic System, USGS Website). Ash deposits from these volcanic eruptions have been mapped in Iowa, Missouri, Texas, and northern Mexico. Theme] energy from the hot spots fuel hot pools, springs, geysers, and mud pots in the park today. According to recent surveys, parts of the Yellowstone region rise and fall as much as 1 centimeter a year, indicating the area is still geologically active (IQous, Jacqueline and Robert Tilling ND). However, these measurable ground mairemeriN which most likely reflect hydrothemhal pressure changes, do not necessarily signal renewed volcanic activity in the area' (IGous, Jacqueline and Robert Tilling ND) Geographiol Am Affected The geographical extent ofvolanic ash b extensive. All areas of the Eastern Region would be affected by a volcanic emption of the Yellowstone caldera According to the 2018 Montana SHMP, western and southwestern Montana are mostvulnemble to eruptions and ashfall from the Cascade Volcanoes. As shown in Figure 4-89 below, almost all of the state of Montana has been covered with volcanic ash at some point in the recent geologic history. - 1'aNl4-tits - Monona Eii a 14g1m Hann Mitiption Nan Haan Idenefiudan and Nsk Assesvnmr Owna Additional Craw robe law So, urs we sham Native American populations may be at Increased vidn—bility for lraff aacidmta Dank[, Lox Scob ,Hawifle None Dawson I— Richey, Glendne Ra'hMvy through Glendivr,, 1-94 crosses county Fallon Law Pl—., Baker Raiivay through Pleura and Baker, HighwayHighmy 12 crosses county Garfield Law jordan None Golden Valley Lax R e ate, Lwinis Railway cresses, county McCone Low Cink N/A Musselshell Low Melnone, Roundup Highways 12 and 87 let-- in central MussAsheB Comity Powder River Medium Brosdus NA Paid. Lox Te Railway thou h Tarry; 1-94 craw. eaurty Richland Inw Fairview Sid." None Roosevelt Low Wolf Point Poplin, BainviOe, Culbvson, Froid Railway through Waif Point and Poplar, Highway 2 crosses county Rosebud Law Cahtrip, Forsyth Railway through Forsyth;1-94 crosses Shedden Low Pienty—.4 Medicna take, Cutlook Wesiby,mold ReBway throe gh County, crosses through etovms Stillwater Medium Columbus Railway through County, 1-90 crosses ourity Tm..m I— Hysham Railway through Hysham; I. crosses county Valley Mad— Glasgow Fort Peck Nashu a, Opheim Railway through Valley County, W,baux Low Wba.a None Yd—tone Mad— Billings, Broadviex, Laurel Billings is the largestdry In the Side, and Yellowstone County is the most populous runty. This high level of traffic volume coupled with exesive transportation nfnswcture of multiple modal gives Yellowstone County the greaten numbers of incidents by far in the region 42.15 Vokank Ash Haxrd/ProbMm Deaafption A volcano is a vent in the earth's oust or a mountain farmed by the eruption of subsurface material including lava, rode fragments, ash, and gases, onto the earth's surface. Volcanoes produce a wide variety of hazards that an damage and destroy property and cause injury and death to people caught in its path. These hazards related to volcanic activities include emption columns and clouds, volcanic gases, lava/pyrodastic flaws, volcanic landslides, and muciflows or debris flows (called lahars), Large explosive emptions an cause damage several hundred miles away from the volcano, primarily from ashfall. Volcanic eruptions are generally not a major cemarn in Montana due to the relatively low probability of events in any given year- However, Montana is within a region with a significant component of volcanic Monism Fasum Fallon Hann Mifiwn Nan — Haut Idennfiuhim and Risk Assessment Figure 4-0 Anti of the United Statesonaa covered by volani...h from major eruptions Mlles Sw,cc JS Geobgid Suns, Past Ooerreraces Since the late 1700s, volcanic emptons in the continental United States have occurred in Oregan, Washington, and Califamia The most recent volcanic activity in the Yellowstone region occurred 70,000 years ago in the form of a lava flow. However, the volcanic ash fallout from the emption of Mount SL Helens in 1980 was the most recent occurrence of volcanic activity to impact the region. Local news scumes reported the sky appeared to be foggy, and a thin layer afgritty, dull, grey powderwac deposited in many areas of Montana The 2018 Montana SHMP notes travel was restricted in westem Montana for over a week beause of concerns For public health, and that the main hazards associated with ashwere reduced visibility (rewlting in closed mads and airports), dogging of air filters, and a health risk to children, the elderly, and people with cardiac or respiratory conditions. Fre "m:y/Ukeliltood of O¢crnnw The frequency of volcanic as in the Eastern Region is ranked as unlikely. Ashfall from Cascade Volcano is the primaryhazard to which the State maybe vulnerable in the future. Future eruptions in the Cascades are certain and have occurred at an average rate of 1-2 times per century during the last 4,000 years. Seven volcanoes in the Cascades have erupted in the last 200 years. The next eruption in the Cascades could affect hundreds of thousands of people. The effect in Montana would depend on the interaction of such variables as source location, frequency, magnitude and duration of eruptions, the nature of the ejected material and MmYna Eastern Pegion Hazard M16,0an Can 14zard Idemifiratm and Rid Aaavrwrt the weather mnditions Therefore, the entire State may be considered wlnerable to ashfall to some degree in the event of a wkanic eruption. Three major periods of activity in the Yellowstone system have occurred at intervals of approximately 600,000 years, with the mast recent occurring about 600,000 years ago. The evidence available is not sufficient to confrmn that olderas such as the one in Yellowstone erupt at regular intervals, so the amount of time elapsed is at necessarily a valid indicator of imminent activity. There is no doubt however, that a large body of molten magma exists, probably less than a mile beneath the surface of Yellowstone National Park The presence of this body has been detected by scientists who discovered that earthquake waves passing beneath the park behave a if passing through a liquid. The only liquid at that locadon that could absorb those waves is molten mck The extremely high temperatures of some of the hot springs in the park further suggest the existence of molten rock at shallow depth A small upward movement in the magma could easily rouse this magma to erupt at the surface I a major eruption occurred, the explosion would be 'comparable to what m might expect if a major nuclear arsenal were to explode all at once, in one place' (Roadside Geology of Montana, All and Hynd man, 1986). Qnnate Change Corsdantiom While climate change is not expected to impact the size or frequency of eruption, eruptons themselves an have a huge impact on dimate. Eruption an inject millions of tons of gases and debris into the atmosphere, which an drmlate far may from the incident site and disrupt normal climate pattern. Large - sale volanic activity may only last a few days, but the massive outpouring of gases and ash can influence climate pattern for years, influencing both heating and cooling. For sample, the 1883 eruption of the Yxakatoa volcano in Indonesia resulted in far reaching global climate impacts, with the avenge summer temperatures in the Northern Hemisphere fairing by 0.72 degrees Fahrenheit the year after the eruption. The 1815 Mt Tambora emption, also in Indanesia, was the deadliest volcanic eruption in recorded history. It also led to global climate impacts resulting in 1816 being referred to as'the Year Without a Summer. According to NASA average global temperatures dropped with frost and snow experienced in the middle o(summer as far away as New England and Europe, leading to massive sap losses and famine A similar scale aruption of the Yellowstone Caldera would also likely eject massive amounts of gasses which would affect the global climate, as well as the Eastern Montana. Potential Magnitude and SevaHty The potential magnitude and severity of volanic ash is amited. Population living near volcanoes are most vulnerable to voiunic eruptions and lava flows, although volcanic ash can travel and affect populations many miles away and awe aviation issues. The USGS notes specific characteristics of volcanic ash Volcanic ash is composed of small,jagged pieces of rods, minerals, and volcanic glass the size of sand and silt Very small ash particles an be less than 0.001 millimeters across. Volcanic ash is at the product of combustion, like the soft fluffy material mated by boning wood, leaves, or paper. Volunic ash is had, does not dissolve in water, is extremely abrasive and mildly corrosive, and conducts electricity when wet Volcanic ash is formed during explosive volanic eruptions. Explosive emptians occur when gases dissolved in molten rock (magma) expand and escape violently into the air, and also when water is heated by magma and abruptly flashes into steam The force of the escaping gas violently shatters solid rods. Expanding gas also shreds magma and blasts it into the air, where it solidifies into fragments of volanic rode and glass. Once in the air, wind an blow the tiny ash particles thousands of miles away from the volcano. Cataclysmic emptians of the Yellowstone volcano 2.0,13, and 0.6 million years ago ejected huge volumes of dhyolite magma; each eruption formed a caldera and extensive layers of thick pyrodastic-flow deposits. The caldera is buried by several extensive rhyalite lava flows that erupted between 75,0W and 150,000 years ago. Mauna Era— pegt. Hard Mlagaaon ran Huardfdmufio,6 MPink Aaaanwa Figure 4.90 Historic Vdanic Eruptioro Measured on the Volcanic Explosiv)ty bide:Sole Historic eruptions measured on the Volcanic Explosivity Index scale. Red spheres Indicate thevolume of ash ejected. Image adapted from USGS. Vulmrabi6ty Aerarnwst People Al people in the planning area are potentially exposed to volcanic ash fallout as well as indirect effects of volcanic ash Direct exposure to volcanic ash can be reduced, though not eliminated, for people inside buildings. People are susceptible to complea health risks, related to both the physical effects of ash and secondary impacts related to disruption awed bythe ash fallout The health impacts of volcanic ash are complex. The abrasiveness of the volcanic ash particles can scratch the surface of skin and eyes and in general cause discomfort and inflammation. Inhaling volanic ash an cause a wide range of health impacts, including death The International Volcanic Health Hazard Network OWHM provides a good reference to the current research and information on the health hazards and impacts of volcanic eruptions (hra,,JAw,w.ivhhn.oro/1. Populations that are especially vulnerable include children, the elderly, and individuals with cardiac and rapiraory considerations. The US Department of Health and Human Services tracks Medium beneficiaries MmYna raeYm Aogbn Haab Mitigation R+n Huard W<ntifiohion+ntl Pick Assewwnt who rely on electricity -depending medical equipment such as ventilators, oxygen concentrator equipment and implanted cardiac devices. Many of these same indi viduals will be vulnerable to effects of wkanic ash. P"'PersY Virtually all property is potentially exposed to volcanic ash Building exteriors and property located outdoors are exposed to a greater degree, but property located indoors is also rep osed.In fact the USGS website on impacts & mitigation of vakanic ashfall imp acts contains a page dedicated to indoor cleanup procedures thtmWAml anoesusas.mvhalunic asWclranim ue inidebtm0. Susceptibility of property to damage caused by exposure to volcanic ash hazards is variable but potentially extensive. Paint in general and especially on carsis susceptible to the abusive nature ofwkanic ash. Non- structural elements ofmoftaps, such as gutters and drains, are susceptible to damage From as little as a few millimeters of ashfall. Gutters tend to collect ash from the moftop, an become blocked, and collapse from the weight especially when the ash becomes scat In extreme cases, roofs have collapsed from the weight of wet ash Building interiors can also be susceptible to damage From ash Ash may dog ventilation grills and cooling fans, which may cause overheating of buildings. Ash certainly passes through ventilation systems and an mat interior surfaces. Some electronic equipment is specially susceptible, such as keyboards and mice Hard drives, however, are well sealed and at particularly susceptible to damage Damage may become appatent months or years later due to corrosion that is chemically accelerated by ash. Generally speaking, nearly everything is exposed to ashfall hazards and susceptibility to damage is extensive. Cleanup is complex, difficult, and expensive After the Mount Saint Helen eruption in 1980 extensive cleanup efforts were required throughout Montana. Vulnerability of property to ash is high but is fortunately muted somewhat by the low probability of ashfall occurring. C itirnf Fa tildes and LW.Unes Critical facilities and infrastructure are most vulnerable to the effects of ashfall. As stated earlier, nearly everything is potentially exposed to volcanic ash following an eruption. As is the case with property, susaptibirity is widespread. The supply of electricity is susceptible to ashfall. Air intakes for backup generators are also susceptible to becoming dogged by airborne ash post eruption. Telephone and radio communications an also be susceptible to interruption due to ashfall. Potable water supply an be susceptible to ash Water treatment is susceptible to deceased quality of raw water sources, both from increased turbidity and fiam chemical charges in the water, both awed by ash Cleanup also creates a high demand for water, which puts additional stress on the water supply. Strmtwater systems collect great amounts of ash from a broad area and an become dogged and cause surface flooding. Clearing underground accumulation of ash in stommvater systems an be extremely difficult Pumps used in stamhwater systems are especially susceptible to damage from volcanic ash Wastewater collection systems are also susceptible to damage from ashfall Buildup of ash in drainage systems an result in stormwater flooding. Ash -laden sewage that makes its way o wastewater treatment plants an cause mechanical damage and, if it makes it further through the system, it will settle and reduce the capacity of biological reactors, increasing the volume of sludge and changing its composition. Transportation infrastructure is also vulnerable to the impacts of ashfall. Roads, highways, and airport runways an be made impassable due to the slippery ash and reduction of visibility. The abrasive volcanic ash can have damaging effects on aircraft notably causing the engine(s) to stall. Volcanic ash can also lead to the failure of critical navigational and operational instruments. fatermw Virtually everything that affects the economy is potentially exposed to wkanic ash The emamy is susceptible to both the direct costs of damage and cleanup, as well as indirect effects of reduced ecoamic Monzana ream Paginn Hazard MlYptlon Mn Ha Wentificed and Pick Arsassment activity following ashfall. The emamy can be impacted toryears following a significant ashfall. Vulnerability is difficult to calculate but is fortunately muted to a large degree by the low probability of ashfall occurring. Historic and Ca@mnl Reswcv All historic and cultural resources are potentially exposed to ashfall. Historical buildings and historical assets within and outside of buildings all are smmptible, Terrestrial and especially aquatic ecosystems are vulnerable to mhfalL which damages recreation and tourism. Natural Reaauca Volcanic ash an collect urban dioxide and fluorine gases that can be toxic to human and have significant impacts on the natural environment Windblown ash an spread and pollute areas that had previously been unaffected. Vegetation is also vulnerable to the impacts of ashfall. Ashfall an result in deceased plant photosynthesis and reduced pollination, impacting the oveall vegetative population in the region. Visual inspection of vegetation in a large area of the State of Washington impacted by the Mount Saint Helens eruption showed three broad categories of plant damages: (1) Breakage due to the weight of ash (2) physiological changes such as decreased plant gmwth and (3) dhemical damages to the leaves (Ayris, Delmelle, 2012). Water bodies are also vulnerable to the effects of ashfall and an cause dhemiul changes that an affect water quality. The following table from the USGS Volcanic Ashhll Impacts Working Gmup show the typical effects of ashfall on the quality of surface mterbodies. Table 4-67 Typical Effects ofAshfall on the Quality of surface Water Bodies Ash suspended in waterwill hioneaee itrbiddy let bks, reservoirs, rivers, and streams. Very fine ash will settle simy, and msidrai W rhn<ty may remak, in standing watm miter bodies. in streams, ash may continue to be mobilized rainfall event; and lehars ma be a hazard in some Fed, ashfall commonly has an add. surface mating This may cause a sTightdepresswn of pH not new below in low-Airtfin' .dace waYrs Fresh esh has a surface coating of nobble salts that rue raptly released on contect with water. The most abundant wUble ekments are typically, Ca, Na K Mg. At Ct S and F. Compositonal changes depend on the depth of ashfall and Its'urg& of water-soluble elements the area of the catchment and vobme available for ddutiom and the pre-existing composhion of the water body. On rivers and stream; there still be a short-IMed pulse of c issahed constio,enK 41n lakes and reaewoir; the vobme It u Vy large a 911 that changes in composition am not ds<emiNe The con,al-nts most hkey to be elevated above background levels in net,ral waters are Fe, AL and MR because these . rwmutlevels y Present at very low Thu; water is Rey to become unpaleuble due to diuobration or a metallic tote before it becomes a health hazad Swrc USGS VdnNe mhw I... wortinr Gmuo. Valtw ieAt h leava R hirimCvh-wahrre meNn DerropramtT reds Retailed to Hazards and Risk All development that occurs in the planning area will be exposed to volcanic ash hazards. Susceptibility is widespread. Overall, vulnerability of development to ashfall is high, but muted to some extent by the low probability of occurring. Itif Sunmmry Overall volcanic ash is considered a low significance hazard throughout the Eastem Region due to the long remnence intervals between events. While low pmbabifity, effects can be widespread and awe serious impacts. Paq•f4am tYgal4-q22 lvar— Eastem R•gim H—ed M1e9.dm Ran Haxard ldemlf wand Risk Asanenmt • Effects on people: Serious adverse health impacts an occur, such as snatches and abrasion to the skin and eyes from direct contact with ash, and ultimately death potentially if ash is inhaled and cements in the lungs. • Effect: an property: exterior of buildings can have abrasive damage to roofs and guttae can be blocked, and the collapse of roofs if too much ash accumulates. • Effects on the economy: rchfill can lead to disruptions in the tourism industries, through the prevantim of travel and access to affected areas, as well as massive losses to ag.rialture if heavy mnfall were to cur during the growing season. • Effects on critical facilities and Infrastructure: ash can samusly damage electrical and mechanical components of infrastructure, disrupt air travel and EMS/first responder operations, and lead to backups and damage of wastewater systems. • Unique jurisdictional vulnerability. the vulnerability is largely uniform as this hazard would likely result in impacts on a large scale, regionsvide manner. • Related hazards: earthquake Table 4-68 Risk Summary Table: Volcanic Ash Lon . law Hardin t Grass None 7i6 Law Beamreek. Bridget, J9fiet Franberg, Red Lod e None Lasw EkA.kaLaw Ism .MBaC' None Ion None low Sc,bey,Flaxv9e None Dawson Low Richey, Glendiv. None Fallon Low Nara., Baker None Gadidd Low Jordan None Golden Wiley Low Ryegiae, Latina None Mccone Law O cle None M—Isheil Lose Mdstor,,Rwndup None Powder River Law Broadus None Prairie Low Terry None Richland Law Fairview. Sidra None Roosevelt Low Wolf Point Poplar, Bainville. Culberson, Raid None Rosebud taw CIruip, Fannth None Sheridan Low Plentywood, Medicine Lake, Outlook Wmtby None 5611—ter Low Columbus None Treawre Lan H None Vestry Low Glasgow, Fort Peck N., .,Oph&n None Wmadnd Law Hadowton Judith Gap None Wit— I Law Wit,.. None YeBavttone Low BBGng,, Broadvi—, Laurel None Mmtana E.—Reghm Hmrd Mitlgatlon Nan Hazard Iderpeudm and Nsk Aa—e a 42.16 WldFrsa HazaWProblam Description As defined by the National Wildfire Coordinating Group (NWCG), a'wildland fire' is any non -prescribed, non -structure fire that occurs in the wildland' (NWCG 2012). Eastern Montana's semi -arid to mmic climate, rural setting, variable terrain makes most of the region vulnerable to frequent and potentiellysevere wildfire. As such wildfire is an ongoing concern for the residents of eastern Montana The two main types of wildfires affecting the Eastem Region are rangeland fires (wildfires occurring on rangeland) and forest fires (wildfires occurring within a forest); however, while infrequent wildfires an also occur in agricultural areas. Fires can occur at any time of the year in Montana, but historically, the fire season extends from spring to fall, with large fires being more common in the later summer months and early fall months when fire conditions are more probable. Prime wildfire conditions occur when accumulated fuels become sufficiently dry from high temperatures and drought and an more easily ignite. Furthermore, high winds during the summer and fall an favor the chance of wildfire spreading. Climate change has led to hotter summers and has caused an increase in fuel drying, which has resulted in increases to wildfire size, intensity, frequency, and fire season length (NIFC, 2022a) as well as wildfire suppression costs (NIFC, 2022b). Throughout Montana, these trends are expected to be exacerbated as climate change progresses (Whitlock at al 2017; Steblem 2021). Historically, wildfire has been an impartantand normal component of the forest and rangeland ecosystems in eastern Montana. Wildfires are necessary for maintaining the natural conditions and ecology of the region (MT DNRC 2020a). Until the latter 20th century, fire suppression was the dominant fine management policy across private, state, and federal lands across the wstem US. As a result, high levels of fuels have built up in many fire prone ecosystems, Including eastern Montana (MT DNRC 2020a). Management goals in wildfand areas typically are focused onbringing fire regimes back to their natural historic range of variation. However, in areas with heavy human use. fuel maintenance and land management strategies will be required to replace the historic role of wildfires. These an include, but are not limited to, pre -bed bums, targeted livestock grazing, and mechanical fuel removal treatments (MT DNRC 2020a). Generally, there are three major factors that predict wildfire behavior and predict a given area's potential to bum These factors include fuel, topography, and weather. Fuel: In order for fire to occur, fuel (a combustible material) must be available to bum Fires are generally determined by fuel type and volume. Generally, the various fuel types and fuel characteristics that cover a landscape have significant impacts on wildfire behavior. Fuel types vary drastically throughout the eastern Region Fuel sources an vary from dead fine grasses, leaves, and needles to live large trees. Combustible manmade structures also contribute to fuel sources. Fuels can be modified by humans through land use and land management (e.g., prescribed bums, mechanical fuel removal, invasive plant management and .grazing, among others). Scott and Burgas s (2D05) fire behavior fuel models were used to model fuels in in the Eastem Region of Montana. The primary fuel types in the Eastern Region are grass and grass -shrub fuels, as shown in Figure 4-91. Grass - shrub (GS2) fuels are the most commonly observed fuels in the region and are characterized as lands with up to 50%shrub cover with shrub height ranging from 1 to 3 feet high and accompanied with a moderate grass load. Wildfire spread rate for GS2 fuels is usually high (20-50 chains per hour (1 chain k eclual to 66ft)) and flame lengths are moderate (4-8 feet. Sagebrush (Artemisia sp.) ecosystems usually exhibit GS2 fuels. GR2 (_grass) fuels are also commonly observed fuels. Scott and Burgan (2005) describe GR2 fuels as moderately coarse continuous grass with an average depth of about 1 foot Wildfire spread rate is usually high and flame lengths are moderate. Bundhgrass ecosystems typically exhibit GR2 fuels. In the forested portions (e.g., the Beartoath Mountains, the Pryor Mountains, northern terminus of the Big Hams, and other scattered island mountainous terrain in the region) of the Eastern Region primary fuel types are timbe—nderstory (TU2 and TUS) fuels. TU2 fuels are characterized by fuelbeds with a moderate _ Mesa. Fenton W9an H.wN Mid tbn Mn F4r4rd IdeneBudon.M Nsk Amesmant litter bad with a shrub component where wildfire spread rate is usually moderate (5-20 chains per hour) and flame lengths are predicted to be law (1-4 heal. Low -elevation forests comprised of species such as Douglas -fir (Pseudotsuga mermaid and ponderosa pike (Pious ponderosa) usua9y exhibit TU2 fuels. TUS fuels are characterized by fuelbeds with a high bad of conifer litter and a shrub understory where wildfire spread rate and flame lengths are moderate. Higher elevation forests comprised of species such as subalpine for OUm favororpa), Engelmann spruce (F1'oeo angefmooni0, and lodgepole pine (Pines coatmrto) usually exhibit TUS fuels. Topography: A region's topography is determined by slope and aspect Nannally, wildfire behavior, such m fire intensity and rate of spread, is mare pronounced on steep slopes due to corwective heat transfer Q.e. heat rising up the slope). South facing slopes are typically drier due to receiving more sunlight than north facing slopes. Thus, they narmally contain drier and finer fuels that are more prone to producing fasterraters of spread than the fuels seen on wetter north facing slopes. Eastern Montana s topography is diverse. It contains hilly rangelands; steep forested mountains; deep unyons; forested hills, valley rangelands; flat grasslands and shrublands; and flat farmlands. Weather. Important weather characteristics, such as precipitation, wind speed, wind direction, temperature, relative humidity, and lightning an affect both the potential for wildfire and spread of wildfire. Low predpitstiom high temperatures, and low relative humidity In drought years dry out live and dead fuels. These dry fuels an amplify wildfire activity and result in more extreme fire behavior. Additionally, antecedent wet years an build up finer fuels that may contribute to extreme wildfire behavior during summer or fall droughts. Weather regimes in the Eastern Montana region an vary drastically between low and high elevations, where the mountains to the east receive more precipitation than the eastern plains (PRISM 2022). Spedfially, the Beartooth Mountains, Pryor Mountains, and Big Hom Mountains in Carbon and Big Hom Counties receive the most annual precipitation, while the plains to the east are comparatively dry. For precipitation across the Eastem Region, April through July are usually the wettest months of the year, December through February are usually the driest months. The latter summer and early fall months of August and September are comparatively dry compared to the spring and early summer months. Hazardous wildfire risk and activity are most likely to occur in late summer and early fall (Whitlock et a] 2017). Figure 4-91 Wildfire Fuel Model of the FAstem Region Monbna Easbm Pegien W idl Mitlg.don Ran Har.Nt 65ardm and Nsk Aonsmmt Pap•)M79 P49e14426 ,,.fir ;•�+ I Meeana Eanem Rgloa HauN Mitigation Pan Wald Ida floiuon and aisle Aaemnmrt Wildland-Urban Interf sm: The wildland-urban interface (WUQ is defined as the zone where structures and other human development meet or intermingle with undeveloped wildland or vegetative fuel (MT MHMP 2018). Starting in 2011, Montana DNRC compiled Will boundaries far all counties within the state based upon information provided from countywide Community Wildfire Protection Plans (CWPPs) or through mnsuhation between the County and the MT DNRC The methods for Vrlll delineation vary by County (MT DNRC, 2020b), which is why some MI areas encompass en entire county land mass, and some areas are more nuanced, based on (:sets, hazards, population density, infrastructure, and other factors. (see Figure 4-92). In Eastem Montana, humans are a significant cause of wildfire ignitions. This is mpetialy true is Eastem Montana's WUI, where wildfire risk is strongly with the WUI (e.g, exurbml areas human caused ignitions and utilities and vehide/roadside ignitions); however, lighting strikes during thunderstorms are also a major source of ignition (see Figure 4-95; MT DNRC 2022a). Most of the counties in the Eastern Region, with some notable exceptions (e.g, the Billings area), have not experienced significant population trends or increases in development (US Cemus 2020); however, property located in the WUI will likely experience greater risk from wildfire due to increasing trends in human caused wildfires and a warming climate (MT DNRC 2020a). Mamma Easam ii ion Wad Miupt— Plan Huard Idendfinsm eM Psk Aasassnant Geop"Mcd Am ARactad The climate of the Eastem Region varies from and to semi -add to mesic All climates, mmbined with continuous loading of rangelands, grassland, and some forest fuels, make most of the region susceptible to wildfre; the geographical area affected for wildfire is therefore alit-shre (PRISM 2022; MTDNRC 2022). The two main types of fires that can occur in the Eastem Region are rangeland and forest Tres. These fire types are reflected in the mapped risks from wildfire Gn Figure 4.105 in the Nld6re Risk Smdon) The rangelands of the central portion the eastem regime that have complex topography and occasional patchwork of dry coniferous forests have historically been most at risk of wildfire (Figure 4-10S). Large rangeland and forest fires in the region have most commonly occurred in the counties of Powder River, Big Ham, Yellowstone, Treasure, Rase Bud, Musselshell, Garfield, Carbon County, and Stillwater (Figure 4-97). Almost the entire Eastem Region is at -risk and/or susceptible to wiidfve. Large tracts of lard with agricultural crop cover (especially in the north—tem portion of the region) are usually at less riskof wildfire compared to undeveloped rangelands and forests. Pant 0— The Montana Wildfire Risk Assessment (MWRA) database, maintained by the Montana Department of Natural Resounam and Conservation (MT DNRQ includes perimeter GIs layers for recent wildfires throughout the state of Montana (MT DNRC 2022a). A —ding to the MWRA, wildfires in the Eastern Region occuron an annual basis and are usuallycontained early with little to no damage. Mostwildfnes are usually less than 1,000 acres; between 2002 and 2021 therehave been 106 wild( res greater than 1,01)0 acres (Figure 4-94). Large (fines greater than 1,000 acres) and potentially destructive fires can occur in my year. Over the last 20 years there has been an increase in the number of Class F fires (fires greater than 1,000 acres). Years where there are larger and more destructive fires (e.g, the 2003, 2007, 2012, 2017 and 2021 wildfire seasons) are correlated with drought conditions and/or wamler growing season temperatures (PRISM 2022). Generally, the majority of wildfire occurrences are small (less than 10 acres) and cause no meaningful damage From 2002 to 2021 there were 10,079 fires that burned 10 acres or less (Figure 4-931; however, in the same time frame there have also been 216 fires greater than 10 acres with approximately half of these (106 fires) being greater than 1,13DO acres (Figure 4-94). Figure 4-93 Nuber of Wildfre in Fastam Montane Region by Year end Ste Clause A-B, 2002 to 2021 Eastern Region Fires of A and B Size Class by Year 1200 -- ---------._. zooD 0 E Z D Year , Sbmdau A = 02S acre wka B = grater Dun D2S u 10 acre. Sou— W DNRC 2a21 L,. Pa0a14a29 3.. Montana E.-n Pegim H.— Midgation Pan Hoard Identificaem and .,I Axsesvnmt Figure 4-92 Wildland Urban tmerfaso Delineation CA NA 1)A NIT(. S'V1 S u ° ob ; w., ttlo�t o oo�� Me a Jr • �I o - o iii ear, o caynom C."e—marr 1a1 rr ° 0 Resonation 0 Coun" Bouna-V rws coo ^° OEamasn Raqun We4arW IAtian H ,.,a, Maraxe y 1-3100000 wn� SWCA 5—e Mr 0— 2020b Mon— 6sMn M,- Hoard MWptan PW Haanl ldentifiod'an aM Psk A¢eaurcnt Figure, 4-94 Number of Wildfire in Esd m Montana Region by Year and Sim Class C-F, 2002 to 2021 Eastern Region Fires by Year and Fire Size Class C-F, 2002-2021 is 14 e 12 _.. u 10 E a .1i aaloll ggFig1I11Li ,11uJI .V+I,i 1I1 Year ■C ■D ■E eF a Size claim A= 025 aaa a ka, e=gmtrnun 025 M 10 acm, C =10 to 100 acres; D = 1DO to 300 acres; E _ 300 to 1,000 aces; F = 1A00. acres. As shown in Figure 4-95, natural wildfire accurrences (e.g, lightning ignitions) in the Eastern Region are and particularly common in the high elevation rangelands in south-central pardon of the region where there are expansive tracts of, masty, wild rangelands intemnoied with patches of forests. Human caused wildfire occurmnces are also common and are, generally, concentrated rear the region's municipalities or infrastructure Regional fine managers and emergency planners should take rote that over the last decade there has been a consistent increase in the number of wildfires attributed to human causes From 2017 to 2021 the number of human -caused wildfires outnumbered the number of natural caused wildfires (MT DNRC 2022a). Figure 4-95 shawl the total acres burned by year. 1�a14210 MonMna Eanam M ion Heard Mlegadcn pan Montana Eastern xaglan H . Miagadvn pan Huard Idarrufiutlm and Dirk Assasvnent Hoard Wenrifiouon and Nsk,lss-1 Figure 4.96 Number of Wildfires by Cahoe, 2002 to 2021 Cause of Eastern Region Wildfires, 2002-2021 s0o sw nc0 1 m 2. 1 S S R 8$ R R R R S R R£« R« R es •Human •Natural vUrkr—. Figure 4-96 Total Ave%of Bumed per Year in Eastern Region, 2002 to 2021 Total Acres Burned per Year in Eastern Region ao0000 700000 -- 200000 100000 -- ----- --- - -- -" Year Over the last20 years, the largerfires in the region have generally occtarred in areas that are an intermix of rangelands and forests. Figure 4-97 shows the fire occurrence history in the Eastern Region. Figure 4-98 shows fire history in the Eastern Region. Figure 4-97 Fro Occurrence History in Erstam Montana, 2002 to 2D21 5 P.y.)a-21 w+gala-z1s Mmtana Faitam Raglrn Heard Mltlgatlon pan Huartl Idmufivuan and Fisk Assnsman Two notable wildfire incidents include the Ash Creek Fire Figure 4-99 and the Lodgepole Complex. The Ash Creek Fire was a highly destructive lightning caused fire that occurred in the late spring and summer months of 2012- It Impacted privately managed land, tribal managed lands, and Bureau of Land Management (8LM) managed lands. This fire burned 249,714 acres across Powder River County, Rosebud County, and the Northern Cheyenne Reservation. The fire destroyed 39 structures (nduding 19 residential homes); killed and displaced livestock caused evacuations, and damaged regional infrastructure (Great Fall Tribune 2017; Billings Gazette 2013). Additionally, the Lodgepole Complex of 2017 burned 271.422 acres of Rangeland and Ponderosa Pine savannah in Petroleum and Garfield Counties. The Lodgepole Complex destroyed 16 homes and 16 structures.In total, the state spent $6 million fighting this fire (Garfield County2017). Finally, to emphasize that wildfire risk is year-round, the West Wind Fire of Late November and early December of 2021 occurred in and around Denton, MT On the Central Region) and was started by a power -fine. This fire burned .'. aver of grasslands, pasture, and riparian wetlands. The fire was particularly destructive as it destroyed 25 primary stmctures, 18 semnday structures and 6 commercial structures in and around Denton (NWCG 2022). Among the structures last were family homes, historic grain elevators, and a bridge (3KRTZ 2021). The consequences of these rangeland fires exemplify the threats that wildfire can pose in Eastern Montana's rangelarxls. Monp,u Easmm aagbn Heard Mlt,.n pan Huard Wandfiadon aM Nsk r4snsmmt Mmiana Eastern Pegian Hama Miegadm Nan —H Idenufiratim and NAA .—I Figure 4-99 R•p..nt tive Lrge Rangelasld Wildfire in the Eartem Region -Ash Creek Fire of —rtmda+Y rwr Gere�w ... 0 --Y B---Y rPs rear , �Neaerralan en .p Q AN Gees EIe RBI 2. 219.74—tlooW) I:Jip p00 Mmiana E.— sion Haord Midlud.n Nan Huard laeritifivam antl Nh Auez — MmYna c... Pcal- —M 4.00n Plan Haurd Idenofioum and NAAaes— Fregsrncy/lik.IV.W Of Omurwr• W ldfires occur every year throughput the region and could occur in any county in any given year: therefore, the probability of occurrence is highly likely. Generally, the rangelands in the central portions of the Eastern region exh:bi: a high annual bum probability, usually around 1%annual bum probability. These mmralsnds ,m typicaly hilly and exhibit complec topagraphy. The regions with a patchwork of nmgelands and dry co0o-nus forests exhibit the h`.ghest annual burn probability (2A). These regions and also topographially complex and are found in P—Jer River, Rosebud, and Yello-tone Counties. The northeastern portion of the E-urn Region displays tFe lowest annual bum probabilities. These areas arc typically grasslanbs and/or farmlands with annual bum probabilities ranging from 0.01%to 0.1%- Figure 4-101 illustrates Ina annualized frequency of wildfire event by County. Figure 4-102 illustrates the annual bum probability for the Eastern Region. Rgure 4.101 Anrual®d Frequency of Wildfire E—ft by County Wealerrr c nerel E.M.. C west ¢m eo�on. a— � asxs � asrla.,o Mmora Us— Wgim Word Midptbn Plan H nf-rni odm aM N4 Ass — Figure 4.102 6sbm Mont— Negion Annual Bum Pmbability CA NA DA 4 wrMer Z aYe. �O •�Ih�i...y n -ere 00� esa:.nrq' - ..,~ter^ cnrar 4a,+[awr O Grynwn ��IN 10.000 Q nearrvaear, ... N5,00a Ilb ntl nreNa rssOs rn . O CaYm pqm Ini� Bu.Mur N Carr aaN✓r InSW C= Cave'1'Ba,r0/r N ro �, Ar.wa s�.e.roa.e.n .•Ins sou�a Mr opxczozz �.. -_._.. IJ: w.mo� SWCA_ �i!'•• - f rl I I, s, M— E.M. aaglm Hants Miegatbn Plan Huard Idmtifia6on,n4 Mrs, Anessrnmt The counties with a high degree of undeveloped wildland rangelands and forests are usually more likely to experience wildfire and experience larger wildfires (see Table 4-69 for summary breakdown of wildfire statistics by county). Counties with a larger proportion of agricultural crop cover are less likely to experience wildfire (Table 4-69). While many rangeland wildfires in the region an be small, large rangeland fires can and do occur. It is important to note that the risk from wildfire 6 substantially higher during drought years. The years with the largest wildfires in Montana have normally occurred during periods of drought with associated high temperatures Whiml, et A 20171. Table 4.69 Average Number of Wildfires per year for Fastam Region Counties, 2002.2021 CLrnata Charge Car dderetiore The 2021 Montana Climate Change and Human Health report states that climate change is and will continue to increase wildfire and smoke hazards throughout Montana. The report declares reduced air quality due to wildfire smoke to be the second greatest concern for human health related to climate change, after extreme heat Similarly, NOANs 202.2 Climate Summary dies that climate change will increase in severity and frequency of wildfires. Annual average temperatures acrass the state, including daily minimums and maximums have risen 2.0 — 3.0•F between 1950 and 2015 (Whitlock at al 2017). Furthermore, Montana's growing season length has increased, as spring has came on earlier and fall freezes have occurred later. Between 1951 and 2010, Montana's growing season increased by 12 days. All regions of Montana are expected to experience warming in all seasons and under all future emissions scenarios. By 2050, Montana's average annual Montana Easam Peglon Hoard Kdpdon Plan Hoard Idmdfiodon and Rist - --temperatures are expected to increase 4.5-6.0°F. Additionally, the number of days where 90-F will be exceeded will increase under future conditions. Finally, in the Eastern Region there has seen a significant increase in spring precipitation. However, compared to the rest of the state, the Eastern Region is also expected to experience the greatest increase in number of days where the temperature exceeds 90-F (Whitlock et al 2017, Steblein 2021). Across the Eastern region, wetter springs could fuel the growth of more fine fuels while hotter summers could amplify fire risk Taken together these climate change effects have contributed to increases in wildfire frequency and severity across the state and will exacerbate the future fire wildfire risk conditions across Eastern Montana. These climate impacts are also affecting forest and rangeland health. Hotter and longer summers and prolonged drought are known to put increased physiological stress an trees and increase mortality caused by diseases. such as mountain pine beetle. Douglas -fire beetle, and spruce budworni, among others. Degraded forest health, significantly attributed to climate change, has already been finked with increased fire risk throughout large portions of Montanas forested regions (MT DNRC 202c). As climate change exacerbates disease outbreaks in Montana's forested areas, there will be an increased build up in hazardous fuels (Whitlock at al 2017). Currently large tracts of Ponderosa Pine forests in the Eastern Region are experiencing attacks from pine beetles (MT DNRC 2021). These attacks are especially prevalent in Powder River and Rosebud Counties (MT DNRC 2D21). These attacks are resulting in decreased forest health and build-up in dead, dry fuels. Additionally, climate change can result in an increase in invasive grass and weed abundance in grasslands and rangelands, whicin can contribute to increased wildfire risk in these systems (Whitlock et al 2017). As the fire season increases there will be a higher likelihood of wildfires coinciding with high wind events during fall, winter, and spring storms, especially during drought years. When wildfire, wind, and drought converge they can create conditions for particularly destructive wildfires, even outside of the traditional wildfire season (eg., the Denton, MT West Wind Fire of December 2021, a wildfire that occurred in the Central Region). WhBe the idea that climate change has worsened wildfire hazards, it is less clear haw bad the situation will get in coming decades. There are no projections for wildfire ignitions or acreage burned specific to the planning area that are available in other states. Projections of future wildfire exist but are at large spatial scales with limited applicability to the specific situation of the planning area For example, a well -cited 2022 report by the UN Environment Programme' presented results from modeling studies that predict a 20%- 30%increase in wildfire events from 2020 to 2050 and a 31%-57%increase by 2100. These ranges reflect modeling uncertainty and the use of different climate change scenarios. It's noteworthy that the scenarios modeled were in the low, to mid -range climate projections (RCP2.6 and RCP6.0). Despite the coarse scale of this study, it serves to provide an indication of the magnitude of future wildfire in the study area. It .[so highlights the potential for a future study to model wildfire potential under various climate change scenarios. Potential Magnitude and Severity Montana Wddjsre RiskAsseument The Montana Wildfire Risk Assessment (MWRA) provides information about the wildfire hazard and risk to highly valued resources and assets (HVRAs) across Mantana. This information is essential for planning wildfire response, fuel management, and land planning. The MWRA is a quantitative assessment of how human and natural resources are bath influenced and affected by wildfire. The MWRA considers the following state-wide spatial components when quantifying wildfire risk likelihood of fire burning, the intensity of a potential fire, the exposure of assets and resources based on their location, and the susceptibility of those assets and resources (MT DNRC2020c). Wildfire vulnerability to wildfire is determined by wildfire expasure and susceptibility, whereas wildfire hazard is determined by wildfire intensity and •Syfmn Andrew, a al, 2022, Spreading 11e wtldflre The rislnq throat N amaadimry Iandsmpa flru. Attested 4524 ai Mmnm Easam P,g- Heard Mitgadon non Isarard Ide,ak tie, ami Ahk Assnsmmt wildfire probability. This conceptual relationship is depicted in Figure 4-101. Overall based an the combination of the likelihood of a wildfire, the intensity of a wildfire, and the exposure of assets, the magnitude for the Eastern Region is critical. Figum4-103 Conceptual Breakdown of the Components and Meaning of the Montana Wildfire Risk Aseassntent Fob.blll�IY ))1 Intensity f Exp�.,e ISusceptlbllfty! Hazard �--- Vulnerability Llkeuhood Colroequanca/Impaat Sav— h1T anRC 2o1z MWRA Components Wildfire Hazard. Wildfire hazard is determined by wildfire intensity and wildfire probability (MT DNRC 2022a). Areas that experience frequent and intense wildfire have the gmatestwiHfire hazard, while areas that experience low intensity fires over longer time scales have the lowest wildfire hazard. W Idfire likelihood is the annual probability of wildfire burning in a specific location At the community level, wildfire Ikelihaod is averaged where hauling units occur. It is the probabilty that any specific location may experience wildfire in any given year. It does not say anything about the intensity of fire if it occurs Wildfire likelihood is derived from fire behavior modeling across thousands of simulations of possible fire seasons. Factors contributing to the model, such as weather, topography, and ignitions are varied based on trends observed in recent decades. It is important to note that wildfire likelihood is not predictive and does not reflect any arrently forecasted weather or fire danger conditions (MT DNRC 2022a). The regions cf Eartem Montana that display an intermix of rangelands and ponderosa pine forests are more likely to experience wildfire than continuous rangelands. Rangelands dominated by grass -shrub fuels (GS) are mare likely to experience wildfire than rangelands dominated by only grass fuels (G10. Agricultural areas and alpine areas above tree line are least likely to expedience wildfire (Fgure 4-102). Wildfire intensity is a measure of the energy expected from a wildfire and is mainly determined by the topography and vegetative fuels of a landscape. Greater fuel loads (eg, forests compared to grass lands), especially on steeper terrain, typically produce greater wildfire intensity. Wldf intensity is technically measured in units of heat transfer per length of fire perimeter. However, it an also be observed and expressed in terms of flame length (MT DNRC 2022a). The MWRA(MT DNRC 2022a) uses wildfire intensities calculated in fire behavior modeling simulations. Modeled tall flame lengths (Le, more intense fires) are die 1, s rx Maa— Us— Region --nation Pua Huard Ieendfintim,nd runt Aoesmsmt more likely to occur in regions comprised of forested areas (Figure 4-104). More intense and taller fires are usually more difficult to control (Table 4-70). Only the forested portions with steep slopes in the Eastern Region we predicted to have flame lengths greater than 25 feet when conditions are extreme enough The vast majority of the region is predicted to have flame lengths 4 to 8 feet in length. Areas with extensive crop cover are mare likely to experience flames lengths under feet Table 4.70 Control Efforts Associated with Different Flame Lengths Less than 4 feet Fires can generally be attak cl at the head or flanks by finl'ghten using hand tools. Hardline should hold Are 4 to 8 feet rim are too intense for direct attack in the head with hand tack. Hardline cannot be set d on to hold the fire. • Dorers.tractor-plows. engines. and retardant drops un be effective. 8 to 11 feet Fires, may present serious control probleme torching clowning, and spotting. Control efom at the head WO probably beineff.0— overllfeet Crowning sparring and major fire runs are probable. Control effom at the head of the Are are neRxrive. Soyrtc Mdrtays et A 2011 Monona Fasnm Pa91m Hank MMgatbn Nan Hank Iderkfivdm and Pict AssessmeR Fgurc 4-104 Ea Rem Mortlana Region Estimated game Length I ... . , @IffirC O +J2 1I oL w0d. o� w P° r' Waaw ,off is <,.,.�, o®slq• _ .. o :..n oD Zo 'c YN_ slam"lmvm ON" ten rwaasN.e ° . Reaa,waam o R=- E.—Regm ca c..*B at. sN o v+renvaary aa.a O co,eev aouwr :a. it 10o000 tr.2s h:]. ss SWCA w,cc W DNRC 2022 Mmona Elm, Pegim Hank MW,iSon Nan Hawk Idmtifiva'm and Gsk Aunvnms Vsdnenbility: Wldfire vulnerability to wildfire is determined by wildfire exposure and susceptibility (MT DNRC 2022a). For example, fire susceptible structures and/or infrastructure located in high fire intensity and high fire likelihood environments would have high exposure and high susceptibility to fire. In other words, they would be vulnerable to will fre. Wildfire exposure. Exposure is the spatial coincidence of wildfire likelihood and intensity to homes and communities. Homes are exposed to wildfire if they are located where there is any chance wildfire could occur (.e, bum probability is greater than zem). Communities can be directly exposed to wildfire from adjacent wildland vegetation (eg, homes situated in a forest), or indirectly exposed to wildfire from ember and home -to -home ignition (MT DNRC 2022a). Wildfire susceptibTty. Susceptibility Is the propensityof a home or community to be damaged if a wildfire occurs. The susceptibility of a Highly Valued Resource or Asset D1VRyQ to wildfire is determined by how easily it is damaged bywrying degrees of wildfire intensity and type. Assets that are fire -hardened and can withstand verylnteme fires without damage (rx,., low susceptibility), whereas non -fire hardened structures re more easily damaged by fire (i.e., high susceptibility). The MWRA generalizes the concept of susceptibility. The MWRA assumes all homes that encounter wildfire will be damaged, and the degree of damage is directly related to wildfire intensity. The greater the wildfire intensity, the greater the pncent damage to the structure. A community's wildfire risk 4 the combination of likelihood and intensity (together called'hazardl and exposure and susceptibility (together called 'vulnerability) (MT DNRC 2022a). Wdd(rre Risk As described previously, wildfire risk is calculated by combining the following components: likelihood of fire burning, the intensity of a potential fire, the exposure of assets and resources based on their location, and the swceptibilty of those assets and resources (MT DNRC 2022a). To quantitatively assess wildfire risk MWRA utilized an expected net value change (eNVC) analysis. The eNVC is an effects analysis that helps to quantify wildfire risk to various highly valued resources and assets (HVRA) for example homes, Infrastructure, water resources, utility lines etc (Finney, 2005; Scott at aL, 2013: MT DNRC 2020c). The methodology is described in detail in the MWRA Report Ihtmsl/rmxa- �drvchuharceis.cons/documents/montane-wildfir risk-assessment-reoort/exolore)montane-wildfir risk-assessment-reoortlexolore). As shown in Figure 4-105, the overall risk of lass to those HVRAs is categorized from low to extreme. The risk to highlyvalued resources and assets from wildfire varies from low/medium to extreme throughout the region but the risk from wildfire to people and property is usually greatest within and near the inhabited areas (Figure 4-105) li.e, see extreme risk ratings in inhabited areas). The municipalities most notably at risk from wildfire include, but are not limited to, Red Lodge, Bridger, Bear Creek Columbus, Billing's sub -urban and ex -urban communities, Roundup, Hardin. and Miles City. Across the region, agricultural areas generally have low to medium risk from wildfire, while the rangelands and forested areas range from high to extreme risk from wildfire, respectively. Forests and rangelands in areas with more complex topography and/or drier climates generally have higher risk than forests and rangelands on fatter or less complex topography. Mmoro U_ Ragbn Nook mWilitioe Plan lWak Identifiutim and Risk Aaessmmt Figure 4.105 Easmm Region Wildfire Risk Summary as Determined by eNVC nN (1zl �,,hrlj I li�l}I11 �1 IfCrinls'� y'' _ . I " h �# O Cxyrtown WIWM"Rke WO.sMsoeMMae�i �,„�„ O ROSe,,, --=)wxRto.n,Hebum rR,m,ree ., _... •� 0.—wy �n �Hge j /� B 0wM' o q Q Larxry BouMary _ Ememe _ 11.N .coo -� SWCA •BLsnk areas MT DNRC bumataa trk b,n ro 1NMt H.v" b""n mapp"d farfh"-r (MT peal. M30�. S"wrt": C 3032 Page (a•NS eI,:'9. Montana Fxmm Region Hook MlBgatbn Nan !W rtl MenUfiun'm aM Risk Mumteni It is important to rote, however, that many of the towns and municipalities throughout the region have very high to extreme risk from wildfire, regardless of the risk of surrounding landscapes. This is because the expected net value change (eNVC) risk assessment model provides more weight in assessing detrimental changes (or expected losses) to structures and infrastructure than to wildlands or agricultural areas. Thus, HVRAs (typically structures or infrastructure) are given higher levels cfweight f e, importance) in the model. The results of these expected losses are then summed by each pixel displayed in the map. Thus, areas (or pixels) with a high concentration of HVRAs (mg, towns and municipalities) will display far greater risk to wildfire even lithe likelihood of fire occurring on the surrounding landscape is low. Thus, the results of these eNVC risk assessmentshould be taken In context and Interpreted with caution. To summarize, the observed trends are mainly driven by risk to structures and infrastructure within the region's towns and municipalities. Figure 4-1D6. Most of these structures/infrastructures are susceptible to fire (where the/ tend to be damaged if a wildfire occurs) and are exposed Qocated where there is a chance wildfire could occur), to some degree, to wildfire occurrence, whidr accounts for the high risk overall in Figure 4-1D6. Generally, however, towns/municipalities surrounded by undeveloped forests and rangelands (ie landscapes with a higher probability of fire occurring and fire spreading) have higher levels of risk to wildfire than towns surrounded by more agricultural areas. However, agricultural fires can and do mur (see Denton fire of 2021) and these fires can have substantial economic impacts (Agricultural Climate Network 2021). It is also important to note that the MWRA was developed by the MT DNRC at the statewide scale. Assessments at these scales may omit finer resolution. and more precise assessment of risk as well as input by local subject matter experts. Some county -wide or multi -county community wildlife protection plans (CWPPs) have been developed for counties rxwering the Eastern region. for example, the 2016 Powder River County CWPP provides a fine -scale brat, wildfire risk assessment that incorporates recent wildfire effects, community input and recent wildfire mitigation efforts (Powder River County Commission 2016). CWPPs for all counties in Eastem Montana can be accessed at the MT DNRC website (see http!/dnrcmtgov/d'Msionyfomstryffre-and-a,iatior✓cwpps) (nobs: marry CWPPs in Eastem Montana have not been updated in over decade). In the event that a County has recently completed a CWPP with fine scale risk assessment, land managers and fire responders should carefully consider if those locally derived assessments provide a more accurate, authoritative dataset for use in addressing and mitigating wildfire risk than the statewide assessment VrLrrebiityAswsmwrd Figure 4-106 depicts the risk index rating for wildfire at a county level based on the NRI. The westem and southeastern parts of the region show a trend towards a relatively low rating, while the central, northern, and northeastem parts of the region trend towards a relatively moderate sting. qwl� _..: 'Nigel .:•-.' '. Montana Eartam R i ran - Miu9wm non H-d Identifiutim and Rsk fusnvnem Figure4-106 Risk Index Rating for Wildfireby County wast.. Gal Eastern Ragkan RegMlon Region t:99 +aura weae. �,/,--sue+ �( ue unora. Prepfe The most exposed population are those that are living within the WUL. The WA in the Eastern Region is expansive, but generally, population densities within the Wit are highest in the regions more populated municiparites/towns. More populated areas, generalfy, have more property and, thus, a greater degree of property exposure to wildfire. Counties with higher portions of their property and infrastructure exposed to fire prone landscapes (e.g., greater wildfire risk to structures and infrastructure) will have more of their populatan vulnerable to the negative effects of wildfire than counties with lower portions of property and Infrastructure exposed to fire prone landscapes The vulnerability to property is discussed further below People can also experience deleterious mental and physical health effects from fire. A study conducted in California found that extreme wildfire (and it associated impacts) on result in post -traumatic stress disorder, depression, and exacerbate pre-existing mental illness (Silveim at at 2021). Mother study conducted in Calfomia found that particulate air pollution from wildfire had greater impacts on respiratory health than particulate air pollution from traditional sources (e.g., vehicle and power plant emissions) (Aguilem at at 2021). in Montana specifically, a study conducted an pulmonary function for community members lining in Seeley Lake found that that lung function diminished significantly when exposed to extreme levels of smoke during the 2017 wildfire season (mostly due to the Rice Ridge Fire) and that lung function continued to decline even acre year post fire (Cm et at 2020). In the Western US, ten of the largest years for wildfire (by total acres burned) have occored since 2004. These large wildfires have been directly linked to poor air quality and have led to adverse physical and mental health effects and costs to wdety (EPA 2022). As climate change progresses, it is likely Eastern Montana will have larger and more frequent wildfires. Planning to address the needs of populations at risk will be become increasingly important to mitigate property damage and health impacts from wildfire. Populations especially at risk from wildlife include socially vulnerable populations. As defined by the US Forest Services Wildfire Risk to Communities (USFS 2022) socially vulnerable populations include the MononaE-aa9ian u-.,n1 Mldgatbn Mn Nawd Wrnuficxtian and N. assnvnmt sty The potential impacts of wildfire on property include crop loss; timber loss; injury and death of livestock and pets; devaluation of property; and damage to infrastructure, homes and other buildings located throughout the wildfire risk area. The greatest potential impact on property, buildings and infrastructure is likely to occur to those structures located within high and very high hazard zones including the WUI, and buildings and infrastructure located within fire prone farests and rangelands. Federal, state, and county lands throughout the Eastern Regions have high amounts of property and Infrastructure that are susceptible to wildfire. Public property lost or damaged by wildfire ran exhaust budgets (due to rebuilding and repair efforts), result in degraded conditions leg, damaged roads and recreational facilities), and degrade the value of natural resources (which mold inhibit leasing efforts and result in lost revenue generation). There are multiple state and federal grants available which can ease casts due W damages from wild( (MT DNRC 2022b; FEMA 2022)). Another method of estimating vulnerability is to determine the value of structures that are located within wildfire risk areas. Another method of estimating vulnerability is to determine the number and value of structures that are looted within wildfire risk areas. For this plan update loss estimations for the wildfire hazard were modeled by using April 2022 MSDI Cadastral Parcel layer as the basis for the inventory of developed parcels. GIS was used to create a centroid, or point representing the renter of each parcel polygon, which was then intersected with the Montana Wildfire Risk Assessment (MWRA) data Wildfires typically result in a total building loss, including contents. Content values were estimated as a percentage of building value based on their property type, using FEMAfHAZUS estimated content replacement values. This includes 100% of the structure value for commercial and exempt structures, 50% for residential structures and 1G0%for vaunt improved land. Improved and contents values were summed to obtain a total exposure value. Table 4-72 through Table 4-75 below summarizes the estimated exposed value of improvements in each wildfire risk category for the counties and the Tribes in the Eastem Region. Figure 4-107 show the wildfire risk to structures in the Eastern Region Lass Ratio is the ratio of the improved parcels at risk compared to the overall number of improved parcels in each county. Table 4.72 Exposure and Value of Structures at High Risk to Wildfire by County BI Hom Parcels 261 $69,696,592 S80,783,876 S150A80,468 Rini. 9% Carbon 248 $S 918 $43,791,984 S%,624,902 4% Carter 109 $14.510,555 S12644,693 S27.355.248 12% Custer 342 SS713SA47 S45,742A64 S102877,911 7% Danish 217 $27,659,178 $24,814.628 SS2473,806 13% Dawson 508 S64141 966 $4 77149 f113A19,115 12% Fallon 155 W.759,705 $17,623.048 S41382753 9% Garfield 14S f129248S3 $72.390997 $M,315850 16% Golden Valley 89 it $9,995,274 11 $7,954,322 f17.949.596 14% McCune 238 524,405,086 $19.610,6S3 S44,015,739 17% Mussehheg 236 S22969,386 S17,882548 540.851.934 8% Powder Riser 1S4 $15,626,169 SI42528I5 S29878.984 IS% Prairie 137 $11,667,759 $9,932175 $21,599,934 l Richland T52 $169,6%932 $719 0.227 U89,530159 15% Roosevelt 394 S56,489,395 S44,629,488 S101,118,883 122L Rosebud 197 $213528.752 S17,TT7,T71 S3V06,SZ3 7% Shedd- 340 f45,788,993 $41,760,992 S87,549,985 12% Stillwater 680 $179 T02 $124.273,341 $303,620.043 14% Tmawre 86 S10,736,876 %9S0,580 $19,687,456 19% valley438 $80,19SX7 I SK976.744 $149174831 1 10% ' Rrwl4-zb - - n9a14�,,a Mentana Eanam pc9lon Naiad M g.d.n Ran Haaed Mmdfiadon and Rsk Assnvnmt following: families riving in poverty, people with disabilities, people over65 years, people who have difficulty with English, households with no car, and people living in mobile homes.Across the Eastern Region, wildland fire fighters are also populations at risk from wildfire. Wldland fire fighting is an inherently dangerous profession where firefighters risk their health and lives while battling fires. During the 2017 Lolo Peak Complex in western Montana, two wildland fire fighters were killed while battling the fire (Reuters, 2017). Wildland fire fighters are especiallyvulne able to medium- and long-term health and safety risks associated with smoke and chemical Inhalation and other conditions while firefighting, as well a immediate risks that may endanger their lives due to the fire environment In order to determine the total general population living in wildfire risk areas, the structure taunt of residential buildings within the various wildfue risk areas and applying the census estimated household size for each county to the total number of structures. This provides an estimated figure for the number of residents i'wirg in areas exposed to elevated wildfire risk Across the Eastern Region counties, there are an estimated 8,743 residents exposed to high -risk wildfire areas, 100,683 residents exposed to very high risk wildfire areas, and 92,179 residents exposed to extreme risk wildfire areas, as summarized in Table 4-71 below. Additonally, based on this analysis there are an estimated 2,381 people residing within wildfire risk areas on the Crow Reservation, 5,211 people on the Fort Peck Reservation, and 353 people on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation. However, these residents are included in the counts for their respective counties of residence in the table below. Table 4-71 Population Within Wildfire Risk Areas in Eastern Montana Caumy _ High Risk Population Very High.ghk Extra-RiskPopuladon_- Pcpulatien ®® �Ml I S.n. MSW 2022 M.Rk US Craws Busty Monona Eats. W9ion Hanrd Mihip! Ran Hrzard Mamfiudan.. Risk Asenmmt Wheatland 126 f14929,630 514766.BS0 533,696,480 10% Wis.. 71 f10.416,620 S9A24i740 S79A44,660 12% Y.11-tene wo SS00.524347 S35221 I,74d S852734G91 1% Total 6.723 $7,503,930,222 $1155.113.124 S26S9093,346 6% savn:as Ms01 sou Mwrta Table 4-73 Exposure and Value of Structures at Vary High Risk to Wildfire by County C.umy B' Hom Improved ,.-I. I 470 Improved Value f84,697.265 Content, Value, S55.600.450 T.UIV.1- 5140297.715 Low Reno 16% Carbon 2090 S547754151 S3 10 7161 33% Carter 194 S16,62293; S71.TT7,870 S24400,809 22% Custer 2619 $355.987,960 $205.1139fiSit SS61,127A72 51% 0anteh 597 549379383 $29,321,872 574701,255 37% D-on Z534 s2mavol 16099 812 S4S9 8 13 59% Fatlon 666 $82.437643 $50 550 $132906 93 39% Gamdd 211 %20.S9ZN3 $13 4137 S34 16980 24% Gold-ValleyG.Id-Valley 235 $27723611 $2066719S sa 90806 37% Mccone 279 P3.816.S44 111I.SX307 $40 S S1 20% M.walsh 11 1,027 51114380 96 S6G 4U3% 1154621 50 35% PowderRiver 1 213 1 77 10 S29785 30 SMA6Z340 21% Praide 431 $23 380 $13659171 $3 749551 49% Rkhland 1620 $27 1 590 fI50 99173 W6,913,763 33% Roosevelt Sal $71918 5 S431 3 $115106.808 28% Rosebud 970 S10S 5876 $63,%S,597 $169 1 73 35% Sheridan 758 S83.050 50 $64111 850 5147162301 27% Stillwater 266S $567115185 $316125c,337 S110 71 58% Treasure 210 $16,963574 $10,550,781 S27514355 48% WOW 1161 S760 1 77 90507 57 S2S0729 27% Wheatland 871 567,516A48 f39A57.448 $10T,173A95 66% Wibwx 293 $23,250,971 $14,174 18 QL-S 49% Yegavrstone 24,939 $6, 1S1,314658 S3.597,410,593 $9.744729,251 1 39% Total46,134 f9,199.399000 $i,397,43 321 f14,58 21 1 39% Table 4.74 Exposure and Valor of Structures at Extreme Risk to Wildfire by County County Big Hom Improved 1,550 improved value f202949,949 Content V.1- $737,934,621 Ta.[V.1- 1340,884.570 Law Ratio 53% Carbon f693,167 $378,61 127 S1 71,785 7 S2% Carter 152 $14,455,913 $11,113 807 525569,720 17% Custer 1,521 S217A311M 171 139069 S331177 30% Dankh 228 524,807A57 515.066.852 $39,873,909 14% Davason 466 S54,707.745 $33,992.742 S99ANA87 11% Falb. 439 $54,146,980 $36.121,450 $90,2613.430 26% Gartield 300 123 3 $13A39,102 $36296.065 31% Golden Vat 69 S087.390 S2921,733 S7A09,123 it% Mceone 266 SZ3,428,567 113 39210 S36A67,7T7 19% Mussehhe0 1,267 $116.264,790 f72757,%9 IlB9A22759 44% Mmnna Eastern Pa9im Haord Plop H—m!Idmtlfiodm and ask Aase I andnrft_Mr 339 $26,M358 1U,T75,338 5-11.714.27E 333: Prairie 172 S9.161,738 S4,667,220 S13128.958 15'.{ Ric!Aand GS ff,399,h32 S3.id).1J1_--510379,i 1's 18.5 p_r.^.It 1.333 51G3,A79.t e'1. 559. /24,9i9 S162.531.1U2 37`.6 Rv:eL •d _ 1.211 S13i.i15,514 _ 53_,1_toca _ $217A".785 •l545 Snciidan 2 S92.607.5:51 f57-1L3.98S S143.935.193_ 27M _ Srlhrater 4W2 5101026 61 155171 507 _ S157199,758 12% Treawre 20 S193.233 5471790 f1l654t129 5% Wall 1596 5201,'71171 1114411,111 5322.389wo 301 Wheathnd 27 $2.d81,529 $1.102,472 f1,984,001 Wbaux 10 $1265,355 $375373 Q,140726 2% Yellowstone 24.107 f5,095,993.537 $2674.222.521 S7,770,216,058 33% Total 39679 f7212 04.651 13,899,284,886 S1111148e737 33% Table 4.75 Eastern Region Parcel Esposum and Value of Structures at Risk to Wildfire by Tribe Tube ,.." �® Fatreme !Very High �� M.diun ... Total Imietwed Parsalr', ,.IaPteeed CaoMet Vdua Value _TotalValw la4s Ratie. Montana Eastern Pa9ion HaMrd Kits.— Han Hush Idmdfiadm and Hsk Auessmmt S—MT-aC— MmMna Faitem Region HuaM Mitgadon Plan Harald ldmdfiudm and Risk An — Critical Focilitfes and Gfi!U ses 3uildings, equipment vehicles, and wmmuniwtiom and utility infrastructure are axpased and lost to fecu vMdres y yaar. Potential risk exists to water treatment facilities, govemment building:, public safety fac66es and agaipmen6 and t—fl m —kes. Scour on bridge pilings may result in bridge and mad dasures. NSldfire irnpact, to critical fadfces can include structural damage or destruction, risk to persons located within EiciGtixs, dismptian of transportation, shipping, and evacuation operations, and interruption of facility operatons and crtical functions. To estimate the potential impact of wildfire on critical fadities and lifelines a GIS vulnerabifry analysis was performed similarly to the property vulnerability analysis, by intersecting the Montana Wildfire Risk Assessment (MVAW data with critical facility data from HIFLD, Montana D-c5, and National Bridge Inventory (1,180. Summary tables of these results am shown below in Table 4-76 through Table 4-78, highlighting the type and number of facilities in each county that are located in High, Very High or Extreme Wildfire risk areas. Table 4.76 Critical Facilities at Ride to Ed— Wildfire Hazards County x x Montuu Erne. W giro H—M WCWtJon Han —Id-aflodon and Nti Aeeaanmt Table 4-T7 Critical Facilities at Risk to Very High Wildfire Hands County s S 3 s s 3 3 � F ! s Table 4-18 Critical Facilities at Risk to High Wildfire Hoards Mgman! Eastern Pegim Huard Mitigation ion Haurd Ide fiva'm and Rio Anrsenem Courtly i Mmnna Easum ne9im — Kba.bm Plan —H W-Ati mend tusk Au et Figure 4-108 Wildfire Risk to Infnstructare in the 6stem Region ' • 1' I) 51'A 1 .1 0o����•� �mr . a,•tr Wit" coon • � y � �s� 6 � a•r.m•i .n.r.wr ... e.,h.t+ • •c.wr • c.`�`.p cocoon j= Rxenaem enlonni Itl•a • Hn lB�Mdue, OE—RV. Mhtntructue rRfrmM e� BohxhdahY Q auty e—wq Madam /H Q cauNry 600rWrY r lay -Very Hyn �"'+ 1.3.200.0m EawgmR SWCA S.,— MT DNRC 2022 Mmuna Eat— Moksn Hand —;,awn Ilan Haunt kle d1 odon and Risk Amestmmt The essi impacts of wildfire include loss of property, direct agricultural wctorjob loss, secondary economic losses to bmirmses in or near wildland resources like parka and national forests, and loss of public access to recreational resources. Damage to these asses or disruption of access to them can have far reaching negative impacts to the local economy in the form of reduced revenues, in addition to the monetary losses resulting from direct building losses. Fire suppression may also require increased cast to local and state government for water acquisition and delivery, especially during periods of drought when water resources are scarce Tourism and outdoor recreation are vital components of the Eastern Region economy. Wildland fires an have a direct impact an the Countys scenery and environmental health, adversely affecting the presence of tourism activities and the ability of the regions residents to earn a living from the related industries. The Eastern Regions scenic beauty and cultural resources are a main draw for tourism so the entire region an suffer economic losses from tourists not coming to the area due to wildfires. Figure 4-109 illustrates the relative risk of EAL rating due to wildfire. Most counties in the Eastem Region have very low risk although Garfield, Rosebud, Custer, Powder River, Musselshell, Big Ham, Yellowstone, Stillwater, and Carbon have a slightly higher risk score (but still relatively low overall). Figure 4-1D9 NNI Wildfire Expected Annual Loss Rating by County Centnl Eastern ,_ F (. I ` f.-I IL I IMF- kM7 rai-1 re - tro caoea awe ....Wit_ Nistovir a.d Cuh—I Resouuces Historic structures are often at high risk to wildfire due to wood frame construction methods and being constructed long before modem building and fire codes. Cultural resources include the natural and recreational resources also mentioned In the Economy and Natural Resources section. These resources add not only monetary value and ecosystem goods and services to the region but can also serve as a source of regional identity and pride for the residents of the Eastern Region. This makes these vital resources for the various communities which are vulnerable to wildfire. Mmuna UMm Region H rah Mitigation Plan FtaraN Wmtifiotim and Ruk Au—, Natural Rnourcm Wildfire can be bath beneficial and destructive to the Eastern Regions natural resources. In the rangeland and forest systems of Eastern Montana, fire is an essential component of the region's ecosystems and is necessary to maintain its native ecology (MT DNRC 2020a). However, in recent decades fire suppression, fuel buildup, climate change, and ram -native invasive plant species have altered the natural fire regimes and increased the fikefhood of high severity wildfire. These charging conditions have put much of the regions natural resources at risk (MT DNRC 2020.). Across the westem US, watershed vulnerability to wildfire has increased with the increasing wildfire conditions. Lager and more extreme, high severity vddfires have resulted in degradation to watershed quality. High severity wildfires can result in increased flows (due to increased hydrophobicity of the burned still; higher amounts of sedimentation and contamination (due to destabilization of topsoil), loss of aquatic habitat and degradation of aquatic ecology (Montana Free Press 2024 Rhoades et al 2019). As watersheds became more vulnerable to wildfire, more mitigation efforts will be required to protect watershed health Recreation is a valuable natural resource in the region. The region contains vast areas of highly valued public lands, which include, but are not limited to, the Eastern portion of the Beartooth Mountain and Wildemess; The Yellowstone River, The Missouri River, The Big Ham Carryon National Recreation Area; The Little Big Ham Battlefield National Monument; Charles M Russell National Wildlife Refuge; Custer National Forest BLM managed lands, and multiple state parks: Increasing wildfire conditions an put these recreational resources at risk Increasing wildfire conditions, especially extreme large fires, an threaten access (due to temporary closures), impact air and water quatit)+; and alter visual aesthetics. Taken together, these impacts can potentially deter visitation and hurt the region's tourist economy (IOm and dakus 2019). Timber extraction in the Eastern region is carried out in limited opacity and predominantly occurs in areas with continuous forests, such as the eastern edge of the Bearlotth's and the southern Big Snowy Mountains. Increasing wildfire conditions can halt timber sales (due to closures) and damage and potentially destroy harvestable trees, impacting the Umber industry. In recent years forest wildfires have became lager and more severe Historically, however, wildfires of all frequencies and severities occurred in the region forests and were necessary for maintaining stand structure and native forest ecology (MT DNRC 2020d. Timber management should be afigned with fire management such that it allows natural fire regimes and their dependent ecology to be restored and/or persist while minimizing the vulnerability of regions timber industry. Public and privately managed rangelands across the Eastern Region provide ample grazing for lrmstodr, making the region highly valued for ranching. Increasing wildfire conditions can put ranches and livestock at risk and threaten this region's industry in the event of large fires. However, it is important to note that, historically, the rangelands throughout the region required a mosaic of conditions created by wildfire (Le, a landscape that exhibits different severities of wildfire and time since wildfire) to maintain their native ecology. For instance, wildfire can dear woody shrubs, favor the growth of grasses and (orbs, and increase vegetative productivity (Cooper et al 2011); all of which an bolster ranching in the region. Wildfire should be carefully managed to both maintain the region's natural ecology and to minimize risk to local ranchers. Wild riim an also threaten the region's farmlands. Currently counties with a proportion of farmlands are less vulnerable to wildfire. However, much of the region has an intermix of farmland and undeveloped rangelands. These would likely be more vulnerable to wildfire. For example, wildfire on undeveloped rangelands could threaten nearby Farms and their crops. This is especially possible in the later summer and early fall when wildfire could thmatm dry fields of wheat When wheatfields do catch fire they spread at fast rates, are hard to control, and can cause cap loss and property damage (Western Farm Press 2017). Additionally, indirect impacts from wildfire, primarily smoke impacts, can also negatively affect produce harvest, quality, and sales (AEI 2021). Overa4 increasing wildlife conditions are making the Eastern Region s farmlands more vulnerable m wildfire. Mawana Eestem Reg:m HmN M:Egation Han Wrak IdmdRradm and Fisk Aaessmvn Devsfopmore T -sda Related to Hands and Rink In recent decades, many counties in Eastern Montana have either expetienced population declines or no meaningful population trends. Stillwater and Yellowstone Counties, however, have experienced a large growth in population. Most population growth in the Eastern Region has occurred in and sound Billings. Many of the new developments occurring in and around BiNings (including the surrounding communities) is occurring within the W7J1. Trends across the state and the Western US have demonstrated that die k1U1 is a desirable location for development even though it presents increased svldlire risk (MT DNRC 2020a1. Current huuses/structum and future houses/stmdums in high -risk WUI areas places lives and property in the path of wildfires. Furthemiae, the increasing wildfire risk brought on by climate change is also putting greater risk on homes and infrastructure already located within the WUI throughout the region. Regulating growth and decreasing fire risk in these areas will be a dericate balance between protecting private property rights and promoting public safety. Local governments may wish to consider regulation of subdivision entmnce/exit mads and bridges for the safety of property awners and fire personnel, building consideratiom pertaining to land an slopes greater than 2S%(in consideration of access fa fire protection of structures), and water supply requirements to include ponds; access by apparatus, pumps, and backup generators Such standards serve to protect residents and property, as well as emergency services personnel. Additionally, as climate change progresses, the wildfire conditions will likely be exacerbated. Regional planners and property owners should also consider efforts to improve the wildfire resgiency, of homes, structures, and critical infrastructure currently situated in the WUJ to prepare for potential increased risk from wildfire. Welk skessomy In summary, wildfire is considered to be overall High significance fa the Region. Variations in dsk by jurisdiction are summarized in the table below, as well as key issues from the vulnerability assessment The frequency of wildfires in the Eastern Region overall is highly likely, although the forested and rangeland areas have a higher burn probability and somewhere in the region fires occur annually. • Wildfire ignitions occur most frequently in the southwestern and western portions of the Eastern Region, where there are large portions of mostly undeveloped rangelands. • The counties with large areas of forests and rangelands in the western part of the Eastern Region are likely to experience the most acres burned in any given year. Socially vulnerable populations are likely to experience the worst effects of wildfire. • Property, structures, and critical infrastructure is at moderate to extreme risk from throughout the region. • Jurisdictions surrounded by more fire prone landscapes (eg, forests and rangelands), generally, have structures and critical infrastructure most at risk to extreme wildfire. • As climate change increases, drought will he more likely and the detrimental impacts on human health and the built environment from wildfire will likely increase. • Related Hazards: Drought Flooding, Severe Summer Weather (lightning) Table 4.79 Risk Sunmary Table: Wildfire EaztemR 'on Hi h Bi Han High None Carbon High Bamcreek Bridger. Higher risk located within the NUJ near the Joret Froriberg Red Incorporated towns Lodge Carter Medium Ekalaka Lower risk than the Region but higher risk in WUI around Eva[aka Mariana Es—Pegim ..- Midga— Mn Hmard Idmti aiii. and Risk Aananent High Ism ,M3a C' None NO High risklocatadwithin thek4UlwkNn be reservation [ands 7V.U Medum Sc ,Reavae Lower risk than R i Low Rich GI.&. Laver risk dung kn Medum Plena. Baker Higher risk around Pema, Baker, and Ism wUl HI h Jordan None Gen Lase ItygliflisLevin. WUI%in the County, such as Town ofJ orlon McCale Law Cine Lower risk the. R loan Mussebhel Hid Mdnane Rounds Nome Powder River Hkih ereadirs Nona Praide Medium Tery, Lover risk than Rion Medium Law F"aw Sidra Louver risk thin Region Roosevelt Medium Wolf Print Poplar, Bainvile,Culbenm, Froid Lower risk than Region Rosebud HI h Cdstd None Sheridan Medum Plwtywaod. Medicine Lake, Outlook, Was Lauver dsk than Region SdIvoter Medium Columbus Lower risk than Region Treasure Medium Hydum Lower Ask than Reg' Valley Medum Ming—,, Fort Peck Nastwa, None Wheatland Law Harlawtan Judith Gap Lower risk than R i wib— Medium WBswx None Yellowstone High Slings, Broadview, Laurel None Hstem MmWa Ragi•n NmN MNga:lan PYn Mitigadon 5mhgy 5 Mitigation Strategy Laml Pdun Relatm:sam fX1.6(cJ Airrheploy M U i,iciWa/a mfngadan stm:agy 6.1Fms'idrs Nejv: skim.', bfv rtlxred:.cng 0r)n.-'.&t L— ldmtiffad inah—k ssseca "busad on"nruv7-Pica ks pzlhi.. p �rmms ardrewhinex adlo cdh'e/rowgnniun urdbnpavr lhesa edging ;roe Ads:mpn ssnP>N rk: (d Ad-it*lenufaii6p or gcnls -duce a aw+ardlag-temr w4 m67C:ias to lx: 1-1;radh-14 (U.q sntim aratfdartiF.r. av! aolyres a canprchansire made o/spxijic cut:+�arim ccdans ardP t-T=' brty caufdemd eo reduce the,(feces of each IwmN, with parricularemphaseson new ale a.Jstirg hvil ft, urd infmcoram e fill An sedan plan dnaibiny haw die acdas identified 0section(40)(fo wdl bepiafrieed impicrian Band odmvxrrercdby thefoaljurisdkriar. Pdodtimb'an shed include ..pedal a oh sis on the extent W whi hberM(a are maximizeda¢adug ro a rose-benejirnmaw, of it, pmpasadprgetts and Merassociated costs. Tribal Requimm.t f20L7(r)(3): A mfrigation strategy 0orpro4des Me Indian &WIg—ears bfuepdnt farmducug Mepomrdd loses identified n Menk ono omant basalmenslfng avMoAdes. Pofsies.pmgwm%ad resoue and Its ability to espad on ale unpmse these iris" rods Thlssection shag lsd de: fl.Ade ouanofmidgotfon goals to reduce oravvU long -farm vubleroblddes as Me idenWedhamrds fto:A sectim Mat/dm6fiie, and amlyzes a ronyidrenrive arge of spedic midgado actions aWP Jecsberg conod-af to reduce Me efhca ofeaM hazard with portk l.,emphasis ocow aid aaf my buddtngs and rnfaomanrrra. fdo:An amoa plan desrnbfng hew Me actions ides ifred 0pamgmph (e(3)C0 of Mhreoforr wdtbapdodtlzad layimerued, and administered by Me Indian TribalgovnnmeaL 5.1 Mitigation Strategy: Overview This section describes the mitigation strategy process and mitigation action plan for the Eastern Montana Region HMP. It describes how the participating jurisdictions in the Region met the fallowing requirements from the 10step planning process: is Planning Step 6: Set Goals • Planning Step 7: Review Possible Activities is Planning Step B: Drab an Action Plan The results of the planning process, the risk assessment the goal setting, the identification of mitigation actions, and the hard work of each jurisdictions CPT/TPT led to this mitigation strategy and action plan. Section 5.2 below identifies the goals of this plan and Section 5A describes the mitigation action plan. 5.2 Mitigation Goals Up to this point in the planning process, each jurisdiction's CPT/TPT has organized resources, assessed hazards and risks, and documented mitigation capabilities. The resulting goals and mitigation actions were reviewed and updated based on these tasks. During the 2022-2023 update of this plan each CPT/TPT held a series of meetings designed to achieve a collaborative mitigation strategy as described further throughout this section. Goals were defined for the purpose of this mitigation plan as broad -based public policy statements that • Rep resent basic desires of the community, • Encompass all aspects ofmmmunity, public and private; U.—Mrnnaru itaso Hm,d Mitigation Mn Mldytion Strategy Are nonspecific_ in that they refer to the quality (not the quantity) of the outcome; Are futureariented, in that they are achievable in the future; and • Are timeAndependent in that they are not scheduled events Goals are stated without regard to implementation. Implementation cost schedule and means are not considered. Goals are defined before considering how to accomplish them so that they are not dependent on the means of achievement Goal statements form the basis for objectives and actions that will be used as means to achieve the goals. During the mitigation strategy workshops held in April 2023, the jurisdictions reviewed the result, of the hazard identification, vulnembifity assessment and capability assessment They then reviewed the goals of the previous county and tribal hazard mitigation plans in the Eastern Region, as well as the Montana State Multi -Hazard Mitigation Plan. This analysis of the risk assessment identified areas where improvements could he made and provided the framework for the counties and tribes to update planning goals and to base the development of new or updated mitigation strategies for the counties and tribes in the Eastern Region. The participatingjurisdictions decided to collaborate and develop a set of new, uniform goals,which were adopted by all counties in the Eastern Region: Goa( 1: Reduce impacts to people, property, the environment and the economy from hazards by implementing whole -community risk reduction and resifience strategies. God 2: Protect community lifelines and aitical infrastructure to ensure the continuity of essential ---- services during and -after a disaster. Goal 3: Support education and outreach to the public through improved communications and capacity building that enhances resilience among underserved communities. God 4: Promote regional cooperation and leverage partnerships with the private sector, non-profit organizations, and other key stakeholder groups in mitigation solutions. Goal 5: Sustain and enhancejurisdictional capabilities and resources to enact and implement mitigation activities. Goal fk Integrate hazard mitigation into other plans, processes, and regulations. Goal T. Ensure local mitigation programs address underrepresented groups and protect socially vulnerable populations. Goal & Incorporete the potential impacts of climate change into all mitigation activities. Objectives are an optional intermediate step between goals and mitigation actions that define strategies to attain the goals and are more specific and measurable. After discussion, the HMPC decided not to include regional objectives Each county and tribe were given the opportunity to set objectives to meet their unique situation and complement the regional goals. Sae Section 6 of each Jurisdictional annex or addendum for details. 5.3 Identification and Analysis of Mitigation Actions The next step in the mitigation strategy is to identify and analyze a comprehensive range of specific mitigation actions and projects to reduce the effects of each hazard an new and existing buildings and infrastructure. During the 2022-2023 Regional HMP process, each jurisdictions CPT/TPT analyzed viable mitigation options by hazard that supported the identified goals. The CPTs/TPTs were provided with the following fist of categories of mitigation actions, which originate tram the CRS: Plen and RegWatiom (Prevention): Administrative or regulatory actions or processes that influence the way land and buildings are developed and built •• .,.- page I s-z . .. U—MarmmM ins Hmr4Mitigationnon Mitigatlm Strategy • Property Protactiore Actions that involve the modification of existing buildings or structures to protect them from a hazard or remove them from the hazard area. • Structural and Infrastructure Projects Actions that involve the construction of structures to reduce the impact of a hazard. • Natural Resource Protection: AL -dons that in addition to minimizing hazard losses, also preserve or restore the functions of natural systems Public fnformation/Educatibn and Awannexc Actions to inform and educate citizens, elected officials, and property owners about the hazards and potential ways to mitigate them. • Emergency Servicese Actions that prated people and property during and immediately after a disaster or hazard event To identify and select mitigation actions in supportof the mitigation goals, the HMPC evaluated each hazard identified and profiled in Chapter 3.4.A link to reference documents titled -Mitigation IdeaY and'Mitigation Action Portfolio' developed by FEMA was referenced in the meeting presentation and made available as hard copies distributed timing Workshop 03 to support the planning exercises. These documents list common alternatives for mitigation by hazard and best practices. Thejurisdictions consic ned both future and existing buildings in considering possible mitigation actions. A facilitated discussion then took place to examine and analyze the options. The mitigation strategy is based on existing local and tribal authorities, policies, programs, and resources, as well as the ability to expand on and improve these existing tools. As part of the Regional HMP development the CPTs and TPTs reviewed existing capabilities for reducing long -tern vulnerability to hazards. Those capabilities are noted by the jurisdiction in the county and reservation annexes and addendum and can be assessed to identify gaps to be addressed and strengths to enhance through new mitigation actions. For instance, gaps in the design or enforcement of existing regulations be addressed through additional personnel or a change in procedure or policy. Based upon the key issues identified in the risk assessment including the capability assessment the counties and tribes came to a consensus on proposed mitigation actions for each hazard for theirlurisdictiom. Certain hazards' impacts were best reduced through multi -hazard actions. A lead for each new action, where applicable, was identified to provide additional details an the project so they could be captured in the plan. Final action strategies are summarized in Section SA and detailed within the respective jurisdictional annexes. 53.1 Prioritization Prxass Once the mitigation actions were identified, the CPTs and TPTs were provided FEMA's recommended prioritization criteria STAPLEE to assist in deciding why one recommended action might be mare important, more effective, or more likely to be implemented than another. STAPLEE is an acronym for the following: • social: Does the measure treat people fairly? (e.g., different groups, different generations) • Technical: Is the action technically feasible? Does it solve the problem? • Administrative Are there adequate staffing, funding, and other capabilities to implement the project? • Political: Who are the stakeholders?Wll there be adequate political and public support fortheprject? • Legal: Does the jurisdiction have the legal authority to implement the action? Is it legal? • E —Ic, Is the action cost -beneficial? Is there funding available? Will the action contribute to the local economy? • Evironmmtal: Does the action comply with environmental regulations? Will there be negative environmental consequences from the action? Other criteria used to assist in evaluating the priority of a mitigation action included: • Does the action address hazards or areas with the highest risk? FaCem Mmmna Pagion Hazara Mitigation Plan Mitigation Strategy Doestheactionproted lives? • Does the action protect infrastructure, community assets or critical facilities? • Does the action meet multiple objectives? At the mitigation strategy workshops, the counties and tribes used STAPLEE to determine which of the newly identified actions were most likely to be Implemented and effective. Keeping the STAPLEE criteria in mind, each jurisdiction prioritized the new mitigation actions by giving an indication of relative priority, which was then translated into'high; 'medium' and 'low.' The results of the STAPLEE evaluation process produced priadtized mitigation actions for implementation within the planning area. Continued actions were also assessed to see if priority dhmtges were needed; most of these remained the same, but in some cases, priorities were changed. The process of identification and analysis of mitigation alternatives allowed the county and tribal planning teams to come to a consensus and prioritize recommended mitigation actions for theirjurisdictiom. During the voting process, emphasis was placed on the importance of a benefit -cost review in determining project priority as this is a requirement of the DMA regulations; however, this was a planning -level analysis m opposed to a quantitative analysis.A quantitative cost -benefit analysis will be considered in additional detail when seeking FEMA mitigation grant funding for eligible projects identified in this plan. Each mitigation action developed for this plan contains a brief description of the problem and proposed project the entity with primary responsibility for implementation, a cost estimate, and a schedule for implementation. The development of these project details further informed the determination of a high, medium, or low priority for each. During the plan update, thejurisdictions in the Eastern Region identified some mitigation actions to, be carried forward from their previous county HMPs. Priority levels on these actions were revisited during Workshop s3 and through the distribution of a Mitigation Action Tracker tool and, in some cases, modified to reflect current priorities based on the STAPLEE principles. 5.4 Mitigation Action Plan This section audines the development of the mitigation action plan. The action plan consists of the specific projects, or actions, designed to meet the plarys goals. Over time the implementation of these projects will be tracked as a measure of demonstrated progress on meeting the plan's goals. SA.1 Progress on Pi avlous Mitigation Actlons This Emtem Regional HMP represents a plan update for all counties and tribes. As part of the update process, the jurisdictions reviewed actions identified in their previous plans to assess progress an Implementation, These reviews were completed using worksheets to capture information on each action including if the action was completed or deferred to the future. Actions that were not completed were discussed for continued relevance and were either continued into the Regional Plan or in some cases recommended for deletion. The participatingjudsdictiom have been working steadily towards meeting the goals of their previous plans. While several remain to be completed, many were noted as in -progress. Progress on mitigation actions previously identified in these planning mechanisms is detailed in the jurisdictional annexes. These action plans were also shared amongst the Regional Plan participants to showcase progress and stimulate ideas amongst the respective planning committees in each county and tribe. Reasons that some actions have not been completed include low priority, lack of funding, or lade of administrative resources Table 5-1 summarizes the progress in implementing mitigation actions by tribe and county finduding the municipalities). In total, 29 actions have been completed, and 24 were deleted as being no longer relevant or feasible. A total of 948 actions were carried over into the Regional Plan, along with 104 new actions developed during the planning effort _ Fa, a Mar— Wgien Haunt JAW.Sai Plan Mitigsean Straegy Table 5-1 Mitigation Action Progress Sranmmy byJurisdiction County/nation Completd D ktd Cmtlnuirg N•w Aciam In 2023 TWI[artirwing" N•w ANons SA2 Continued Compliance with NRP Given the significance of the flood hazard throughout the planning area, an emphasis will be placed on continued compliance with the National Hood Insurance Program (NHP). Jurisdictions that participate in the NRP are noted in the respective annexee and addendums' Capability Assessment and will continue to make every effort to remain in good standing with the program. This includes continuing to comply with the NHP's standards for adopting floodplain maps and maintaining and periodically updating local floodplain regulations. Actions related to continued compliance include: • Continued designation of a local floodplain manager whose responsibilities include reviewing floodplain development permits to ensure compliance with the local floodplain management ordinances and rules; • Suggest changes to improve enforcement of and compkance with regulations and programs-, • Participate in Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRMS) updates by adopting new maps or amendments to maps; • Utifue DFIRMs in conjunction with GIS to improve floodplain management such as improved risk assessment and tracking of floodplain permits; • Promote and disperse information on the benefits of flood insurance. Also, to be considered are the flood mitigation actions contained in this Eastern Regional Plan that support the ongoing efforts by participating jurisdictions to minimize the risk and vulnerabirity of the community to the flood hazard, and to enhance their overall floodplain management program. faaMm Monmm Regan Hamra Mitigation PLn Melgation Strangy SAII Mitigation Action Plan The action plan presents the recommendations developed by the county and tribal planning teams, outlining how each jurisdiction and the Region can reduce the risk and vulnerability of people, property, infrastructure, and natural and cultural resources to future disaster losses. The mitigation actions developed by each participating jurisdictions are detailed in the jurisdictional annexes in Section 10. These details induce the action description, hateed(s) mitigated, lead and partner agencies responsible for initiating implementation, costs, and timeline. Many of the action items included in this plan are a collaborative effort among local, state, tribal, and federal agencies, and stakeholders in the planning area Table 5-2 summarizes the mitigation actions that address each hazard relevant to thatjuHsdictiom Table 5.2 Mitigation Actions by Hawed and Jurisdiction a County/Rmrv•tion n _ ..rE' E i J. Pawl ,,.h91�.? • U.—Montana Reg;on Hu dMitigation non UMm MMUM pe9im Ha uJ Midpd lnon Mi6,d. sux.gy Ptah Adoption Imp anen4don and M+imnunp ' Courdy/Rnrmtion x 'xo C E _ r E l ` � -. W � a � j ua.m MmUna Pegim HmN Miti9adm flan Miti9atim Svategy The actions included in this mitigation strategy are subject to further review and refinement alternatives analyser, and reprioritization due to funding availability and/or other criteria. The parddpatingjurisdicdom are not obligated by this document to implement any craft of these projects. Rather, this mitigation strategy represents the desires of the communities to mitigate the risks and vulnerabilities from identified hazards. The jurisdictions realize that new needs and priorities may arise as a result of a disaster or other circumstances and reserve the right to support new actions, m necessary, as long as they conform to their overall goals, as listed in this plan. See thejurisdictional annexes and addendum for their list of mitigation actions, as well as more details on progress on implementation of previous actions. 6 Plan Adoption, Impkmentation, and Maintenance Requlhmal•. f207.6fdN:: (ztnpL-n mvinamameprRess rtm0 vrlule a] uetim desaQHrg Me melkd and sdurdula of marmdny, mlwdug, and vpdusn7 Ne mitiyadanptan wimfn a fihar)+:o•ryrfe ribcl Requnrmn�t 420r.7(4A7A Rhrpfon mainnmma pmseu ,hall ucluda aJ sar'an devrgvny the merVcd ord sdedWe o%mwiG .ry, svuluadr3, and u,�dotGg tlromiryada+plan. Rryuironea320t.ra(Q(5j: Rhe hamnf mi:igadonpWn sMll fncrudH dmummtacon char rheplon has 6cen(mmo0y upprmvdby d� 9oh'nrdr5 body of0wimsdfcdon regueadny upprohof oJmrplun fey. City C—A rmrrdy er, rnbol G n i(i. Implementation and maintenance of the plan is critical to the overall success of hazard mitigation planning. This is Planning Step 10 of the 10-step planning process. This chapter provides an overview of the strategy for plan implementation and maintenance and oudines the method and schedule for monitoring, updating, and evaluating the regional plan. The chapter also discusses methods for incorporating the plan into existing planning mechanisms and how to address continued public involvement The system for implementation and maintenance was created during the 2022-2023 development of the regional plan. 6.1 formal Adoption The purpose of formally adopting this plan is to secure buy -in from participating jurisdictions, raise awareness of the plan, and formalize the plans implementation The adoption of this plan completes Planning Step 9 of the 10step planning process. Adopt the PlamThe governing board for each participating jurisdiction has adopted this local hazard mitigation plan by passing a resolution. A copy of the generic resolution and the executed copies are included in Appendix D, Plan Adoptions The Eastern Regional HMP will be updated and re -adopted every five years in concurrence with the required DMA local and tribal plan update requirements. 6.2 Implementation Once adopted, the Plan faces the truest testof its worth continued implementation While this Plan contains many worthwhile actions, each court, jurisdiction, and Gibe will need to decide which action(s) to undertake or continue. Two factors will help with making that decision: the prodty assigned to the actions in the planning process and funding availability. Low or no -cost actions most easily demonstrate progress toward successful plan implementation. Mitigation is most successful when it is incorporated into the day -today functions and priorities of government and development Implementation will be accomplished by adhering to the schedules identified for each action and through constant pervasive, and energetic efforts to network and highlight the benefits to the counties, tribes, communities, and stakeholders. This effort is achieved through the routine actions of monitoring meeting agendas for hazard mitigation -related initiatives, coordinating on the topic at meetings, and promoting a safe, sustainable community. Additional mitigation strategies could include consistent and ongoing enforcement of existing policies and vigilant review of programs for coordination and multi -objective opportunities. Simultaneous to these efforts, it is important to maintain constant monitoring of funding opportunities that can be leveraged to implement some of the more costly recommended actions. This will include creating and maintaining a bank of ideas on how to meet local match or participation requirements. When funding does become available, the Eastern Region and its counties and tribes will be able to capitalize on the opportunity. Funding opportunities to be monitored include special pre- and post -disaster funds, state and y,; f Faaem MonUna Pe9ian Haranf Mid9adon can hen Adopdon Implemmue'on and Miwtmame federal earmarked funds, benefit assessments, and other grant programs, including those that can serve or support muldobjective applications. 62.1 Role of IHaard Mitigation Planning Committee In Implarnentation and Maintenance With the adoption of this Plan, the Eastern Region its counties, municipalities, and the tribe will be responsible for the Plan implementation and maintenance. Each county and tribe, led by their Emergency Management Coordinators, will reconvene their HMPC for plan implementation and maintenance. MT DES staff will assist in the coordination of the regional HMPCs. This HMPC will be the same committee (n form and functior, if not actual individuals) that developed this Plan and will also be responsible for the nut formal update to the plan in five years. The county level and tribal planning teams will Act as a forum for hazard mitigation issuer. Disseminate hazard mitigation ideas and activities to all participants; • Pursue the implementation of high -priority, low/rw-con recommended actions,, • Ensure hazard mitigation remains a consideration for community decision -makers; • Maintain vigilant monitoring of muldobjective costshare opportunities to help the community implement the plan's recommended actions forwhich no current funding exists; Monitor and assist in the implementation and update of this plan; •" • Report on plan progress and recommended changes to county and municipal official,; and • Inform and solicit input from the public MT DES staff wilk Assist with procurement of consultant wppurt/additionai technical assistance. Provide technical assistance and support to the delivery of an effective stakeholder and public engagementloutreach strategy. This includes providing assistance with the planning and facilitation of stakeholder and public outreach/ engagement meetings both in person and virtual. This also includes coordinating with other Montana state agencies (e.g, Dept of Commerce, ONRC, Dept of Environmental Quality, etc) and their field staff and stakeholders to ensure a whole government approach to participation, involvement and regional planning outcomes. This includes assistance in how underserved communities and social"Inerable populations will be engaged in tangible activities throughout plan implementation and maintenance and in the nett plan update (see also Section 63.4). Provide technical assistance and support with data and resources needed to meet the mitigation planning requiremenrs. • Assist during the mitigation action phase of the planning process and help guide communitim/stakeholders on the development of holistic and comprehensive mitigation actions. Each HMPC will not have any powers over the respective county or tribal staff, it will be purely an advisory body. The primary dutyis to see the plan successfullycanied out and to report to the countycommissioners, municipal boards, tribal councils, and the public on the status of plan Implementation and mitigation opportunities. Other duties include reviewing and promoting mitigation proposals, considering stakeholder concerns about hand mitigation, passing concems on to appropriate entities, and posting relevant information on county websites (and others as appropriate). 6.3 Plan Maintenance Plan maintenance implies an ongoing effort to monitor and evaluate plan implementation and to update the plan as progress, roadblocks, or changing circumstances are recognized. The regulation at 44 CFR7201.6(d)(3) requires that a local jurisdiction must review and revise its plan to reflect changes in wwisa . baa•m Mon— PAgim Havrd Midgadon flan flan Adopdon Impkmmadonand Maintn — development progress in local mitigation efforts, and changes in priorities, and resubmit it for approval within five (5) years to continue to be eligible far mitigation project grant funding. Similarly, a tribal gov ru ent is requlred by 44 CFR 201.7(d)(3) to review and revise is plan to Mlae. any changes in dmelopment progres; in mitigation efforts, and changes in prin5oc+ and to resubmit it for approval Wthln S years to continue eligibility far MiA assistance. 63.1 Ma(ntanance Schedule MT DES will won with the Emergency Management Coordinators to initiate annual plan reviem, in consultation with the heads of participating departments in their ram counties and tribes. In order to monitor progress and update the mitigation strategies identified in the action plan. each county and tribe and their standing CPT/TPT will conduct an annual review of this Plan and/or following a hazard event An annual mitigation action progress report will be prepared by the Emergency Management Coordinators based on the HMPC input and kept on file to assist with future updates. The annual reviewwill be conducted by reconvening each HMPC in November or December of each year in coordination with MT DES. This plan will be updated, approved, and adopted within a five-year cycle as per Requirement 1201.6(d(4)(7 (for local governments) and 4201.7(d)(3) (for tribes) of the DMA of 2000 unless a disaster or other circumstances (e.g., changing regulations) require a change to this schedule. The Eastern Region and its counties and tribe will inquire with MT DES and FEMA for funds and or technical assistance to assist with the update. The next plan update should be completed and reapproved by MT DES and FEMA Region Vlll within five years of the FEMA final approval date. The planning process to prepare the update should begin no later than 12 months prior to that date. Note that the addendums developed during this current planning process will be converted to annexes in the next update. Additional information on the plan maintenance schedule for each participatingjurisdiaion is included in the amexes and addendums. 633 Mafntaramm Evahsadon Prod Evaluation of progress can be achieved by monitoring changes in vulnerabilities identified in the plan Changes in vulnerability can be identified by noting: • Decreased vulnerability as a result of implementing recommended actions; • Increased vulnerability as a result of new or altered hazards; and • Increased wlnerability as a result of new development • To best evaluate any changes in vulnerability as a result of plan implementation, each county and tribe will adhere to the following process: • Arep resentative from the responsible office identified in each mitigation action will be responsible for tracking and reporting an an annual basis to the department lead on action status and provide input on whether the action, as implemented, meets the defined objectives and is likely to be successful in reducing vulnerabilities. • if the action does not meet identified objectives, the lead will determine what additional measures may be implemented, and an assigned individual will be responsible for defining the action scope, implementing the action, monitoring the success of the action, and making any required modifications to the plan. Evaluation is used not only to measure progress, but to evaluate the effectiveness of the plan itself and if goals are being achieved. Changes will be made to the plan to accommodate for actions that were not successful or were not considered feasible after a review of their consistency with established criteria, time fame, community priorities, and/or funding resources. Actions that were not ranked high but were identified as potential mitigation activities will be reviewed as well during the monitoring and update of this plan to determine the feasibility of future implementation. Ewan, Mmuna aagim Hazard Mitigation Mn Plan Adopdon Inn0— Wand Wint—, Updating of the Plan will be by written changes and submissions, as each HMPC deems appropriate and necessary, and as approved by the respective participating agencies. In keeping with the five-year update process, the HMPC will convene public meetings to solicit public input on the Plan and its routine maintenance and the final product will be adopted by the governing council of each participating jurisdiction. Updates to this plan will: Consider changes in vulnerability due to action implementation; • Document success stories where mitigation efforts have proven effective; • Document areas where mitigation action were not effective; • Document any new hazards that may arise or were previously overlooked; • Incarp=: new data or studies an hazards and risks; • Incorporate new capabilities or changes in capabilities; • Incorporate growth and development -related changes to infrastructure inventories; and • Incorporate new action recommendations or changes in action prioritization. The jurisdictional annexes explain in further detail the monitoring system for backing the initiation and status of projects as well as project dowouts, indicating who will be responsible for implementing and maintaining this system for the respective tribes. 633 Incorporation Into Edsting Planning Mechanism Mother important implementation mechanism that is highly effective and low-cost is the incorporation of the HMP recommendations and their underlying principles into other county or tribal plans and mechanisms. Where possible, plan participants will use existing plans and/or programs to implement hazard mitigation actions. As described in each county and reservation annexes and addendums' capability assessment section, thejurisdictions already implement polides and programs to reduce losses to rife and property from hazards. This Plan builds upon the momentum developed through previous and related planning efforts and mitigation programs and recommends implementing actions, where possible, through these odder program mechanisms. Where applicable, these existing mechanisms could include: • County, tribal or community comprehensive plans County, tribal or community land development codes • County, tribal or community Emergency Operations Plans (EOPs) • Threat and Hazard Identification and Risk Assessments(THIRA) • CWPPs • Transportation plans • Capital improvement plans and budgets • Recovery planning efforts • Watershed planning efforts Wildfire planning efforts an adjacent public lands • Masterplaming efforts River corridor planning efforts • Future updates to the Montana State Water Plan • Other plans, regulations, and practices with a mitigation aspect The jurisdictional annexes and County HMPs with addendums note where the previous versions of the individual county and tribal HMPs have been incorporated into existing planning mechanisms in the past 5 years. Each annex and addendum also notes specific opportunities to integrate the mitigation plan into other mechanisms in the future in Section 7. The addendums do not have sections on these specific opportunities, but these opportunities are described in the base plan in Section 6. Eastern Mmtaru Mgian Harm_ Mitigation Plan flanA pdm Impl-enuftn and Maintenance HMPC members involved in these other planning mechanisms will be responsible for integrating the findings and recommendations of this plan with these other plans, programs, etc. as appropriate. As described in Section 6.2 Implementation, incorporation into existing planning mechanisms will be done through the process of • Monitoring other planning/program agendas; • Attending other plaming/program meetings; • Participating in other planning processes; • Ensuring that the related planning process cross-references the hacand mitigation plan, where appropriate, and • Monitoring community budget meetings forother community or tribal program opportunities. The successful implementation of this mitigation strategywill require constant andvigilant review of existing plans and programs for coordination and multi -objective opportunities that promote a safe, sustainable community. Efforts should continuously be made to monitor the progress of mitigation actions Implemented through these other planning mechanisms and, where appropriate, their priority actions should be incorporated into updates of this HMP. 63A Continued Public lnruhniment Continued public involvement is imperative to the overall success of the plans implementation. The update process provides an opportunity to solicit participation from new and existing stakeholders and publicize success stories from the Plan implementation and seek additional public comment The Plan maintenance and update process will include continued public and stakeholder involvement and input through attendance, atdesignated committee meetings, web postings, social media postings, press releases to local media, and through public hearings. To ensure the meaningful participation during continued involvement activities of vnderwived communities and socially vulnerable populations, including the elderly, youth, veterans, homeless individuals, and low-income families, the HMPC will employ targeted outreach strategies. Partnerships with CBOs, NGOs, and individual government agencies —such as the American Red Cross and local senior and healthcare facilities --will be key to facilitating communication and engagement as this strategy was successful for outreach in the Eastem Region. Meetings will be held in accessible locations like senior centers and healthcare chnia, and materials will be provided in multiple languages to overcome barriers like transportation, childcare, and language differences. These communities will also be encouraged to participate in various activities that will be led by County staff and representatives from CBOs and NGOs. Activities will include public meetings, focus groups, and surveys with each regional CPT or TPT. Their feedback will be used to evaluate mitigation actions and shape future plan updates. The feedback from undemerved communities and socially wlnerable populations will also be used to develop HMA grant applications, where applicable. CPTs and TPTswill ensure an open line of communication and that feedback is recorded and addressed. Additionally, potential training and capacity -building initiatives can empower these communities to take a more active role in future hazard mitigation planning processes. Feedback will be documented and integrated into future updates, with follow-up reports demonstrating how communityinput has influenced the plan. When each HMPC reconvenes for the update, they will coordinate with all stakeholders participating in the planning pmcess—inducing those thatjoined the committee since the planning process began —to update and revise the Plan. Public notice will be posted, and public participation will be invited, at a minimum, through available website postings and press releases to the local media outlets, primarily newspapers. Based on DMA requirements the public will be provided an opportunity to provide input during the plan update process, and before the plan is finalized. This can be accomplished through public surveys or ... Monona legion —M Mitigation M. Flan Adoption Implenn—tion and Winkm — meetings. Public comments will be solicited on the plan update draft by posting the plan onrine and soliciting review and comment fora minimum of two weeks. NNNI) Eastern Montana Regon Wra'd Miugau,n Man Mnee K 10is-... C.riv E.stem Monts. Region Hazard Mitigation Plan Mn.,, K wetawit a County Annex K Yellowstone K1 Mitigation Planning and County Planning Team ibis C,unry Armax builds ,n previous ver ors of the Yellvnst,ne County Hard tbNgatan Plan (H)dP) completed in 20t9. As pan of the region,,! plsnnirg process, the Couny established a Ccumty Planning Team (CPT) to develop the mitigation plan and identify pp;ential mitigation projects The fo0p,vin9 incorporated communities participated in the DMA planning process with the County • city.( Billings • City of Laurel • Town of Broadview More details on the planning process followed and how the counties. municipalities and stakeholders participated can be referenced in Chapter 3 of the base plan. A full Bst of local government departments and stakeholders that were invited to participate and that participated can be found in Appendix A K2 Community Profile K2.1 Geography and Climate Yellowstone County is in south-central Montana, between the Great Plains and the Rocky Mountains, The County is bordered by Musselshell County to the north Treasure County to the northeast Big Hom County to the southeast Carbon County to the southwest Stillwater County to the west, and Golden Valley County to the northwest Billings, the County seat is in central Yellowstone County and at 43 square miles is the largest city in Montana. The Crow Indian Reservation occupies the southeast portion of Yellowstone County. Figure K-1 presents a location map of Yellowstone County. The Yellowstone River forms the dominant physiographic feature in Yellowstone County, As the Over winds its way from the southwest portion of the County near Laurel to the northeast comer near Custer, it is Ranked by a broad alluvial valley. The only tributaries of the Yellowstone River that tarty water year- round are the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River, Bighorn River, and Pryor Creek. The Clarks Fork defines a small segment of the west County boundary while the Bighorn River forms a small segment of the east County boundary. Other County drainages that Row intermittently but with some regularity include Alkali Creek Blue Creek and Canyon Creek There are approximately seven lakes and reservoirs in the County. Plains occupy the largest portion of the County north and south of the Yellowstone Riven The topography of the plains varies with the thickness of the underlying shale and the presence of sandstone beds. Thicker shale beds translate into more gently rolling terrain cut by steep -sided coulees. Rimrocks, rough ridges and frequent outcrops Occur where eroded shale layers expose the interbedded sandstone formations. Elevation in the County ranges from Z680 feet above sea level on the Yellowstone River near Custer to 4,971 feet at Stratford Hill in the southwest comer. Yellowstone County consists of approximately 1,693,751 acres. Eighty-two (82) percent of the County is under private ownership, while federal land managers (BLM, U. S. Bureau of Reclamation, and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service) administer 5 percent of the land area. State agencies, including Montana DNRC (responsible for State Trust Land), and the Montana Dept of Fish Wildlife and Parks (responsible for State Parks and fishing accesses), administer percent of the acreage. The Crow Indian Reservation comprises 8 percent of the County. Figure K-1 also shows the landownership in Yellowstone County. Population density in Yellowstone County is 64.2 persons per square mile. Yellowstone County is the most populous county in Montana with approximately 164,731 people according to the 2020 US Census. There are three incorporated towns and cities in Yellowstone County. City of Billings. City of Laurel and Town of Figure K-1 Yellowstone County Base Map and Land Stewardship '-Q'/Gwemmnl 30eem IrJ-� lNaANgt. ' M co,vr' Oo.•mm.nt � (lakes `J Cwnw• V. "31 0 evetl Oaie,rn,aa . _ -�--- Rakeea � Repma CWNTY )(O IbL„e Fek, LYraMo.eM Pa -1aaMayeQ TibetBwMe4n -- ia'jw,�,wst.T.,at,.a. -trews. Nolan Vn'wenM Syebm - trmr,w Pek Senxe )� ,taw a111muv rxuOUNT ELL us a,ma,wt:.auanyn..m C C COUNTY UrIBure.0 M RecrenNon US rM eMW ft Swvice PAN ET c yiY YE OTONE 't CWNTY 7 S i e,eiae SKImom COUNTY � Hnew Crow Tripe / Eeetem E1 z.wn Buo-neQon .. Ez CARBON ran COU"n" C7 FMvq Ea Es wPm.oNa nrsoa o is ao wee keNYra bPa.we Pxw•eeaN/. Dea ties. eraxe,v:,.,. Waa K2.2 Population Trends According to the 2020 U.S. Census, Yellowstone County is the most populous county in Montana with a total population of 164,731. The U.S. Census Bureau reported the County experienced a 11.3%increase in population since the 2010 census. Trends show that the population has increased in the County and the Page K-1 -- Page K-3 - - U.- Montana Region Hazard Mitg.ton Pia. Mnex le l.11-1-Cwnly Broadview. Imerswes 90 and 94 are the major transportation routes in the County in addition to State Highways 87, 47, and 212, which are north -south routes that intersect Interstate 90. Yellowstone County has a semiarid dimate which is relatively mild with few significant weather events during an average year. Extremely low temperatures, less than 0 degrees Fahrenheit may prevail in the winter for short periods of time. High wind events are possible in the spring and summer and may include rare tomadic activity. Heavy rainfall is rare, but localized thunderstorms can deposit significant rainfall in a small area resulting in flashfloods. Flooding is a problem on the Yellowstone (liver and tributaries particularly when warmer temperatures rapidly melt snow and ice during spring break up. Yellowstone Counts complex topography and lade of common slopes or drainage pattern result in a wide variety of local mivoclimates. In general, the Yellowstone River valley, where most of the population resides, has the greatest range of highs and lows. The areas outside of the river valley tend to have lower temperatures. Precipitation rates vary along a west to east gradient dropping significantly from Laurel to Custer- Winter Chinooks originating in the mountains move northeastward through the County, moderating winter temperatures. Cold fronts from the north tend to affect the eastern highlands more than they do the rest of the County. Cultivated lands usually experience little variance in the growing season, which averages 129 days, normally extending from mid -May through mid -September. The average annual rainfall is 15.09 inches, with an average of 57 inches of snow. Forty (40) percent of the precipitation falls in the wet sprang months of April, May and June. The maximum monthly rainfall recorded was in May 1981, 7.7 inches, while the maximum 24-hour rainfall was recorded at 29 inches in June 8, 1997. The maximum monthly snowfall was 423 inches in April 1955, while the maximum in 24 hours was 23.7 inches, also in April 1955. Winters are cold but usually not severe. Januarys average maximum is 36 degrees and minimums average 18 degrees. Summers are waml with good sunshine and low humidities, but the nights are generally cool. Extremes in temperature have ranged from 106' F in 1937 to -38'F in 1936. The average number of days per year with temperatures of 90' F or above is 28. The number of days with temperatures of 32'F and below is 48. Average wind speeds are greatest during the winter months when they range from 10.5 mph to 1L5 mph. The most blustery month is December when wind speeds average 12S mph. Winds are slowest in July and August when speeds average 9.0 mph. The average prevailing wind is from the southwest. In June 1968, the extreme wind speed of 79 mph was recorded. Eason.. V Region Harald Mitigation Man Mnex K Yelwntone County incorporatedjurisdictions like Billings and Laurel. Specific demographic variables for the County are provided in Table K-1 below, Table K-1 Population Trends in Yellowstone County, 1980-2020 Incorporated 1980 1990 e,mmpnity ri 1980.1990 Change 19M.2000 2010 2000.2010 2000 U,ange U,arge 2020 2010.2020 U,a,ge NOTES: 1 - During review of this plan, Yellowstone County noted their population was larger than counted by the 2020 US Cemus and the 2021 American Community Survey estimate The 2022 population mr-te for Yellows." County is 169,852 according to the ACS, and this is a more tsimma estimate of the County, Population at the time of this plan development Source Decennial Census. httncf/data census cowl K2.3 Demographics The 2016-2020 American Community Survey (ACS) reports demographic estimates fa Yellowstone County which are summarized in the table below Table K-2. Table K-2 Demographic Estimates for Yellowstone County(2016.2020 ACS) Percentage of penom below I SO% poverty estimate 19.9% 24.1% Unemployment Rate estimate 23% 4.0% Percentage of housing cost -burdened occupied housing units with annual me less than $75,00030%. of incomes ton housi cos[s)eriimate 194% 21.4% Percentage of persons with Im than a high school diploma (age 25.) estimate 6.6% 7.5% Percentageunins ... dinthetmaldvilunnoninstilutionallzedpopulatian estimate 8.5% 9.6% Percentage of persons aged 65 and older estimate 22.5% 22.1% Percentage of persons aged 17 and younger estimate 21.1% 213% Percentage of Civilian nonfnstitutionAzed populationwith a disability, estimate 161% 15.6% Percentage of single -parent households with children under l8 estimate 3.2% 3.9% Percentage of persom(age Se) who speak Engfisli'less than well* estimate 0.0% 0.3% Mirwrity(other than white non -Hispanic) estimate 9.4% 14.6% Percentage of housing in structures with 10 or more units estimate 1.9% 3.3% Percentage of mobile homes estimate 73% 13.1% PercenUgeofmwpiedhwr Nunin Wthmmpeoplethan roomsestimate 0.9% 21% Percentage,fhmwholds Mthnovehideavallableestimate 5.2% 49% Percentage of persons in group quaners estimate 25% 22% Percentage Femaleestimate 50.7% 49.7% Page K-2 - Page K-4 Fafem Montana Region Huard Mitigation non Mne.IC Ytllowstom Caunry E.— Montana Region Poland Mitigation Plan Acme. K Ytliownone County MedanA eestimate 38.7 Ml Median Grrns Rent estimate 59 to $536 faed4.nHwse Yalue eStimMe• S330,800• 5366.400' Percent Urmccupied Houvrg Urrits estimate 6.21% 153% Source ACS 2016-20M. hit, f1cl tacercu mv/1.2022 ACS 1-year estimate K.2.4 Social Vulnerability Social vulnerability is broadly defined as the susceptibility of social groups to the adverse impacts of natural hazards, including disproportionate death, injury, loss, or disruption of livelihood. Social vulnerability considers the social, economic, demographic. and housing characteristics of a community that influences its ability to prepare far, respond to, cope with, recover from, and adapt to environmental hazards. Additional details on social vulnerability and the National Risk Index (NRI) can be found in Section 4.1.1.5 of the Base Plan. The social vulnerability index (SoVI) rated the social vulnerability in Yellowstone County as 'Relatively Law, with a score of 32.8. Thus, Yellowstone County is less socially vulnerable than roughly three -fourths of all Montana Counties. Refer to Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA) for more information on social vulnerability. Demographic factors that can influence the social vulnerability rating are displayed in Table K-2, such as percentage below poverty level or over the age of 65. The ACS reports that most of these factors are at or below statewide averages. With regards to hazards, socially vulnerable populations may be disproportionately impacted by hazards that include flooding, wildfires, and dam failures. Severe weather hazards may result in power outages that could have a greater impact on these socially vulnerable populations including those dependent on electricity for medical reasons and those that lack access to a vehide to safely get to a community center or shelter location with electricity. K2.5 Development Trends According to the Montana Department of Commerce Regional Economic Models Incorporated Population Projections', the population of Yellowstone County is expected to increase to 179,726 by 2030, a 6.0% growth from the 2022 ACS 5-year estimate. To accommodate the growth, new commercial, industrial, and residential development will occur. However, at this time, residential development is the most rapidly growing sector of land use in Yellowstone County. Most of the anticipated growth is expected to occur within and near the communities of Billings and Laurel. The County has experienced an increased demand for housing. Since the 2008 Recession, new construction rates have remained law, creating a deficit of over 4,000 residential units. This created a housing shortage for residents and new arrivals. This shortage was further exacerbated by COVID-19 pandemic and the heavy shift of urban dwellers relocating into smaller, more rural areas like Yellowstone County and Billings. In 2008, the Yellowstone County Board of County Commissioners and the City of Billings adopted updates to the Yellowstone County / City of Billings Growth Policy. This plan includes individual neighborhood growth p[am to better reflect the communities' vision for development Specific growth trends by jurisdictions are listed belay Yellowstone County,According to the CPT, the housing shortage for current residents and those Figure K-2 New Privately Owned Housing Unit Authorizations z'sm ?f"O 1 Sao \` 1.000 V woo 0 —Totaltai"nzs —Taalunss K2.6 Economy Table K-3 below provides a brief overview of economic characteristics in Yellowstone County, The fallowing information is provided by the U.S. Census Bureau ACS 5-year estimates from 2016-2020. Table K-3 Yellowstone County Economic Profile Families Below Poverty L—I fig% Individuals Below Poverty Lend 18.4% Median Home Value $330,800 Median Household Income M630 Per Capita Income $37,261 PapuIink n> i6Years old in Labor force 66.7% Population Employed 643% Source: U.S. Census Bureau ACS 5-year estimates, 2020 Table K-4 below shows the breakdown of employment in Yellowstone County by the industry sector. According to the ACS, the leading employment sectors in the County are "Educational, Healthcare, and Soda[ Assistance Servicei which composes of over20% of the total employment in the County with 19,395 people. This is followed by "retail trade' with 9,969 people. A dose third is the'Arts, entenainmmt and recreation, and accommodation and food services' Industry with over 10%of the population in Yellowstone County employed. Page K-5 Page K-1 I Eanem Montana Region Hazard Mitigation Plan Mne. K Yelloastone Carry new to Yellowstone County has caused housing prices to rise by nearly 4196, making the average home price $357,0D0. However, according to the 2022 ACS 1-Year Estimates (which is the most recent ACS publication), the median value of a home in Yellowstone County is S330,800. Wile the amount of development growth has remained law and the implementation of the Yellowstone County Growth Policy limits growth population growth in the County has increased and thereby slowly increased the overall exposure of people within the County to atmospheric/weather hazards. City of 8Rlingc The City of Billings and Yellowstone County are seen as ideal for new business because there is not only an airport located nearby, but Billings has one of the largest populations in the state. New businesses interest seems to favor the relocation or new creation of data/server centers in the area There has been a decrease in demand for traditional office space, which is believed to be a result of the pandemic Overall, there is seen to be an increase in businesses throughout the City of Billings. Billings and Yellowstone County are also seeing increased interest in shovel ready sites for development There have been requests for building and warehouse spaces larger than 30,OD0 square feet Being the commerce hub for a 400+ mile radius region with two major interstates dissecting the area and a north/south interstate corridor nearby, easy access to the major airport and rail service make this area highly desirable. There are also several new, large building projects including the new Coca-Cola manufacturing plant south of the interstate and two new warehouse projects between west Billings and dowetown. The City of Billings Growth Policy has helped the City manage population growth and housing development however the City's steady increase in population has gradually increased the overall exposure of the City to atmospheric hazards. City of laurel: The City of Laurel has prime proximity to 1-90 providing optimum conditions for growth. Within the city limits, Highway 10 and the SE 4th Street corridors provide opportunity for business growth with some vacant industrial and commercial zoned tracts. The potential for large industrial sites remains small due to infrastructure concems and the inability for the city to provide water without imestlng in substantial upgrades. Where the citys greatest potential lies is in the redevelopment of vaunt commercial buildings located in the downtown area, as well as along First Avenue south of the underpass. The City of Laurel has experienced some population growth over the past five years, which has resulted in a slight increase in the overall exposure of the City to hazards. • Town of Broadview: The growth potential of the Town of Broadview was analyzed and found to be constrained by the development of a better water supply and the construction of a railroad spur from the Bull Mountain Mine to the railroad main line southeast of town. Without a better, more reliable water supply, additional growth is not likely The Montana Bureau of Mines and the Montana DNRC have collaborated with the tam to define and evaluate favorable sites for development of additional viable groundwater sources Because the limited water supply the Town has experienced a gradual dedine in population growth and development which has resulted in a slight decrease in the overall hazard exposure of the Ton. The U.S. Census Bureau Building Permit Survey provides information and local statistics on new privately - owned residential construction. Figure K-2 below displays the new privately owned housing unit authorizations by year in Yellowstone County. This data indicates that there was a sharp increase in housing units in 2013, which has remained fairly high since. An increase in the number of housing unit authorizations in the County could indicate an increase in the total number of buildings exposed to hazard events. However, it is unknowe how this development will impact vulnerability to specific hazards, such as wildfire and flooding. Eanem Montana Region Wmrd Mitigation Plan Anne. K YdI—none County Table K-4 Yellowstone County Occupation by Industry Profile Population Perc nt of Indus" Educational services, and health care and social assistance Employed 19,395 Labor Force 23.8% Retail trade 9.969 122% Arts, entertainment and recreation, and accommodation and food services 8,892 10.9% Professional, scientific, and management and administrative and waste management services 8,006 9.8% Construction 6,805 8.3% Transportation and warehousing, and utilities S,817 7.1% Finance and insurance, and real estate and rental and leasing 4,771 5.8% Other services, except pudic administration 4,409 5.4% Manufacturing 4,325 S.3% Public administration 3,070 3.8% Wholesale trade Z705 3.3% Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, and mining Z201 2.7% Information 1,244 1.5% source: US. CenPas Bureau A6 5-year estimates. 2016-2020 K3 Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment K3.1 Identified Hazards The CPT reviewed significant hazards for inclusion in the HMP. Some changeswere made from the 2019 Yellowstone County Hazard Mitigation Plan to be consistent with the 2023 Eastern Montana Region Hazard Mitigation Plan. The previous 2019 Yellowstone County HMP proDled the following hazards: .Severe Weather and Drought • Hazardous Material Incidents .Wildfire • Transportation Accidents • Ditch and Drain Failure • Flooding and Dam Failure •Terrorism, Violence, and Civil Unrest . Communicable Disease • Cyber Security • Landslide /Rockfall In this plan update, severe weather hazards are organized into severe summer weather and severe winter weather. Terrorism, Violence, and Cyril Unrest are covered in Human Conflict Cyber Security is covered in Cyber Threats. Dam Failure is also a stand-alone section. Ditch and Drain Failure is also covered in this Annex but not in the Eastern Montana Regional HMP. Table K-5 provides a summary of the overall hazard significance for the hazards evaluated in this plan, showing variability byjudsdiction. More details on hazards can be found in Chapter of the base plan. maim age K-6 Page K-B Easre.n Montana Ream Haz Mitigasion Plan Mnax K Ydlousrone County lance Mmina Reg. Hazard Miugatian Plan Mnex K Ydlewstone Counry Table K•5 Yellowstone County Overall Hazard Sgnifirance by Hazard and Jurisdiction- Avi.a�.ehe Low Lose law.• I Low• Communicable Disease High High High Hign Cyber-Attack hied- _ High High High Dnm Failure Low Medium Lox Medium Ditch & Drain Failure High High Low High Drought High High High High Earthquake Low Medium Medium Medium Flooding High High High High Hazardous Materials Incident High High High High Human CbnRict High High Medum Medium Landslide Low Low Low Low Severe Summer Weather High High High High Severe Writer Weather High High High High Tornadoes & Windstorms High High High High Transportation Accidents Medium Medium Medium Medium Volcanic Ash Low Low Lox lax Wldfire High High High High Geographl< Extent Negligible: Less than 10 percent of planning area or isolated single- point occurrences Limited: 10 to 2S percent of the planning area or limited single -paint ocannences Sir r ii fica S: 25 to 75 percent of planning area or frequent single -point occurrences Extensive: 75 to 100 percent of planning area or nsistent single- point occurrences Potential Magnitude/Severity N_ggfgibl : Less than 10 percent of property is severey damaged, facilities and services are unavailable for less than 24 hours, injuries and illnesses are treatable with first aid or within the response capability of the jurisdiction. Limited: 10 to 25 percent of property is severely damaged, facilities and services are unvailable between 1 and 7 days, injuries and illnesses require sophisticated medical Probablllty of FutureOasirrences Unlikely_ Less than 1 percent probability of occurrence in the next year or has a rectum nce interval of greater than every 100 years. Occasional: Between a 1 and 10 percent probability of ce in the nest year or has a recurrence interval of it to 100 yearn men 10 and 90 percent probability of win the next year, or has a rewmence 11. toy.. ly. Between 90 and 100 percent pmbabiliry Ke in the next year or has a recurrence less than 1 year. Overall Significance 1W.. Two or more of the cmena fall in the lower dassifications or the event has a minimal impact on the planning area This rating is also sometimes used for hazards with a minimal or unknown record of occ mences'impacts or for hazards with minimal portion of structures in the County, accounting for over $21 billion of the nary 526.5 billion improved property value, as shown in Table K-7 below Table K-7 Yellowstone County Total Exposure by Jurisdiction and Property Type Agricultural 2 5257,990 $257,990 $515,980 Commercial 321 $131,041.427 $131,041,427 S26Z08ZS54 Exempt 736 $1,599,410,120 $1,599,410,120 $3,198.820,240 Industrial 35 545,193,570 567,790,355 511Z983,925 Residendal 42A87 S10,080,254Y(12 $5,040,127,351 S15,120,38Z053 vacant 23 $6,345,380 $6,345,380 S1Z690760 Total 43,604 $11,862,503,189 $6,844,972,623 $18,707,475,812 Exempt 8 5896,680 5896,660 $1,793,360 Industrial 1 $228,820 $343,230 $S7Z050 Residential 86 $8.027,776 54,013,888 $1Z041,664 Total 95 $9,153,276 $5,253.798 $14,407,074 Agricultural 62 SIi,iBZ680 511,16Z680 522365,360 Commercial 2 5582,910 $58Z910 $1,165,820 Exempt 7 $727,950 5727,950 $IASS.900 Residential 38 $6,974,358 $3,487,179 $10,461,537 Vacant 2 51,650 SI,650 $3300 Total ill $19.469,548 $15,982369 $35,451,917 Commercial 11 $1,417,180 S1,417,180 SZ834,360 Exempt 46 $62.847,717 $6Z847,717 $125,695,434 Industrial Residential 4 2,978 56,387,680 $9,581,520 $15,969,200 $474,431,413 $237,215,707 5711,647,120 Total 3,039 5545,083,990 $311,062,124 $856,146,114 Agricultural 993 $196.379,255 $196.379,255 $39Z758,510 Commercial 95 538,448,680 538,448,680 $76,897,360 Exempt 190 $195,326,541 5195,326,541 $390,653,082 Industrial 38 $351,257,020 5526,885,530 $878.142550 Residential 15,748 53,477,888,190 $1,738,944,095 $5,216,83Z285 Vacant 73 $1,561,304 $1,561304 $3,12Z608 Total 17,137 $4,260,860,990 $2,697,545,405 $6,958,406,395 Page K-9 _ Page K-11 _ moomp— disabilities. Cora : 25 to 50 percent of property is severely damaged, fadfides and services are unavailable or severely hindered fro 1 to 2 weeks, (juries and illnesses memhebn medical support for a brief pencd al time or result in many Permanent disabilities and a few deaths overwhelmed for n extended pencd of time or many deaths prof. Catastrophic More than 50 percent of pmpenyis severely damaged facilities and services are unavailable or Nndered for more than 2 weeks. the medical response system is pve whelmed for an extended period of time or marry deaths occur. K3.2 Building Inventory and Assets Fartem Mpntam Pegim llaznrd Midgatim Han Mnex K YdIc—e Canty Medium: The oitena fall mostly in the middle ranges of dess8lcatkins end the went', Impacts on the planning area are noticeable but not devastating. This rating is also sometimes utilized for hazards with a high impact rating but an extremely lase occurrence rating. e}�i I : The criteria consistently fall along the high ranges of the classification and the event exerts significant and frequent impacts on the planning area. This rating is also sometimes utilized for hazards with a high psychological impact or for hazards that the jrisdiction identifies as particularly relevant People, property, critical facilities/infrastructure, and other important assets in Yellowstone County are exposed to the hazards identified in this plan. Table K-6 summarizes the property inventory for the County and each participating jurisdiction, based on improvement value (i.e., structures) and includes the building count and value grouped by parcel type and jurisdiction. This is an assessment of the overall property exposed within the County and byjurisdidion. Assets inventoried to determine vulnerability include people, structures, critical facilities, and natural, historic, or cultural resources. For the regional planning process, locally available GIS databases were utilized. Parcel and assessor data was obtained through Montana's MSDI Cadastral websita This Statewide database provided the basis for building exposure and property types. The focus of the analysis was on improved' or developed parcels. These parcels were identified based an an improvement value greater than zero. Property Types were used to identiy occupancy types as shown in the following table, which includes summations of total improved value for the various property types. Table K-6 Yellowstone County Building Inventory and Value by Jurisdiction Improved Jurisdiction Billings Parcels 43,604 Improved Value $11,86Z503,189 Content Viihm Total Value $6,844,97Z623 $18,707,475,812 Broadview 95 $9,153,276 55,253,798 $14,407,074 Crow Tribe 111 $19,469,548 $15,982,369 $35,451,917 Laurel 3,039 $545,083,990 $311,06Z124 5856,146,114 Yellowstone County 17,137 $4,260,860,990 $2,697,545,405 $6,958,406,395 Total 63,986 $16,697,070,993 $9,874,816,319 $26,571,887,3/2 NOI a —A portion ct me Crow Tribe is In Yellowstone County, although predominantly located in Big Hom County.Source:MSDICadastraldatabase-httpsl/msl.mtgw/gecinfo/msdi/cadas W Total building exposure with contemsvdthin Yellowstone County based on an analysis of improved parcels is over S26 billion, with over S16 billion in improved value properties and $9 billion of contents. The City of Billings accounts for more than S18 billion of this total number. Residential properties represent the greatest Grtem Mmtana Regm Hazard Mitigation Plan Mnex K YNLawwtone Canty Grand Total I 63,875 I $16,677,601,445 1 $9,858,833,950 1 $26,536,4.3 Source: MSDI Cadastral database, htips://msl.mt.gwlgednfo/msd/cadastral/ Critical Facilities, Infrastructure, and Other Important Cam munfly Assets A critical facility is defined as one that is essential in providing utility or direction either during the response to an emergency or during the recovery operation. Much of this data is based on GIS databases associated with the 2022 Homeland Infrastructure Foundation -Level Data (HIFLD). Other critical facility databases were also used, such as the National Bridge Inventory (NBI), with supplementation from the Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee (HMPC). Where applicable, this information was used in an overlay analysis for hazards such as dam failure, Rood, and wildfire. FEMA organizes critical facilities into seven lifeline categories as sham in Figure K-3. These lifeline categories standardize the classification of critical facilities and infrastructure that provide indispensable service, operation, or function to a community. A lifeline is defined as providing indispensable service that enables the continuous operation of critical business and government functions, and is critical to human health and safety, or economic security. These categorizations are particularly useful as they. • Enable effort consolidations between government and other organizations (e.g., infrastructure owners and operators). Enable integration of preparedness efforts among plans; easier identification of unmet critical facility needs. ' • Refine sources and products to enhance awareness, capability gaps, and pmgmss towards stabilizabon • Enhance communication amongst critical entities, while enabling complex interdependencies between government assets. • Highlight lifeline related priority areas regarding general operations as well as response efforts. Page K-10 Page K•12 E-- 11-- --d WI 1v. 1W .— .1 C—I Figure K-3 FEMA Lifeline Categories 4—b 911 i2ep %Aft Source. FEMA Table K-8 below summarizes the number of critical facilities byprisdiction. Figure K-4 through Figure K-7 display the location of critical facilities by FEMA LVe�inoii-;Yellowstone County, the City of Billings, the Town of Broadview, and the City of Laurel. Pagel(-13 Fasten M-1— —rd Plan .— K YMIo Lone County Table K-9 Yellowstone County Critical Facilities by Jurisdiction C Y--- Co—y Figure K-4 Yellowstone County Critical Facilities couxn rcoo ft.. a pur4w,M en— + Ze, EN WSSELS"M LLEY CCU.TY YELLOWSTONE COUNTY 0 COUNTY 7, T— FE7--j I rep Fa COUNTY F. J MYn Fartem Montana Regl. lNrard Mitigation Plan m— K Y61-111 Canty Figure K-5 City of Billings Critical Facilities em" loiet Cp,ew, IS Foid.Ytler, 9aaM • T...- 4. is St Sit t Page K-14 Page K-16 Eaaem Momaw Regia Wrard Miegation Plan Annex K YNI.—Canty Figure K-6 Town of Broadview Critical Facilities C.—.. t%or,W hMM ■ G cY 'e FOW. end 160TdMr nau.enl �J ar,ry.d B.cMar � �� R,sn•ed ) )Ij+} of i Mro a••re.d nzradn. On os s■r rarAn�.NA�aM,aN, A o.�# sovrw. eM,n•,. wN taxMr. M•�ene ocs. we. Nino Page K-17 E.— M—ra Fegion Harard Mitigation %an A•me.KYdb tone Canty r,yur•a.iy.M cn.9o�M. a st®da. u.arm• ea.u.u. Oeu,4l bet • Cnnune,oma # lk,lnndMedsi-+-�R•i•,d o Bnenlr StldY nd S,cudry Q I —I ♦ Good, VAla, ShMsr p Trnaport,aen re n.. it 8 J, e .. e 0 _- WPa•n•Yd 1ta432 a OS t4!Mr N a•.a•d nr pNwNeBwe•..•d' A o.M sew. Iava•M swN laarwy. Maven, OEa. MB, MRD Page K-18 Eanem Mon'ana Re9�dn WraN Mitgation %an Arne• K Yellovertone Canty Natural, Historic, and Cultural Assets Assessing the wL arabliityof VI —tone County M h—m, also involves ,n-ntarymg me neutral. historical and c Rural assets of the area This step is important for the foilornng reasons: The C-1—iy may dride th.,t ;here types of reso:.rces vv-..rranl more Proten:on doe to tieir unique and irreplaceable nature and contribution to the overall economy, • If the;= resources are impacted by a hazard, knowing soahead of time allows for more Prudent care in the immediate aftermath, when the potential for additional impacts are higher. • The rules for reconstruction, restoratian, rehabilitation, and/or replacement are often different for these types of designated resources. Natural resources can have beneficial functions that reduce the impacts of natural hazards, such as wetlands and riparian habitat which help absorb and attenuate floodwaters. Historic and Cultural Assets By definition, a historic property not only includes buildings or other types of structures, such as bridges and dams, roads, byways, historic landscapes, and many other features, The National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), managed by the National Park Service and U.S. Department of Interior, is the nation's official list of cultural resources worthy of Preservation. Table K-9 below lists the Properties that are identified as having cultural and historic significance in Yellowstone County as recorded by the National Register of Historic Places, Table K-9 Historic Properties and Districts on National Registers Huntley Project Office Bell.,,- 22912-SheetW 6/52017 Acme Building Billings 109-111 N.Broadway 11192005 Armour Cold Storage Billings 1S. Broadway 7/7/2004 Babcock Theatre Building Billings 114-124 N. W Avenue &2808-28122aAyeue 47g/2013 Billings Chambtt g Commerce Buildln Billings 303 N. 27w Si,,, 1/20/1972 Billings Communal Mausolea Billings 1704 Central Avenue 06/28/2021 Billings Historic District Billings Roughly bounded by N. 23r° Street & N. Zr Street 1"Avenue &Montana A — Billings Billings Old Town Historic District Bngs Denerally bounded by Monona Ave. on the N, S. 26' Wthe E. I^ Avenue S on the S.& S. 30w Street on the 09/16/2010 Billings Tovnasite Historic District Bound.Inc—el Billings 2600(2528).2604-2606. 2608. 2610-2614, & 2624 Montana A— 4/202006 Billings West Side School Bilfngs 4158roadwaterAvene 32020D2 Black Otter Trail Billings Black Otter Trail 1/52007 Boothill Cemetery Billings N of Billings 4/17/1979 Dude Rancher Lodge Billings 415 N. 29-Street 7/222010 Electric Buikfing Billings 113-1158roadway 3/12002 Fire, House A2 Billings 201 E. 30^ Street Z29/1980 Page K-19 3 T?'d Faaem MmMw Begian Harar,l Mtigation %n Mnee K Ydbwstone Canty Fratt-Link House Billings 142 Clark Avenue 11/92020 Oadield School Billings 32121"Avenue S. 10/32012 Graf, Arnold. Houw Billings 633 Highland Park Drive 4202015 Hoskins Basin Archeological District Billings Address Restricted 1120/1974 James F. Baton Federal Building (Courlhouse& Federal Office Buildi Bilfrgs 316 N. 26+Street 1/13/2023 Kate Fran Memorial Parochial Sdwol Billings 205 N. 32a Street 7282020 Land L Building Billings 2624 Minnesota Avenue 12/19/2008 Masonic Temple Billings 28063'a Avenue N. 4/17/1986 MCKiNey Elementary School Billings 820N.31"Street 3/16/2021 McMullen Hall Billings 1500 University Drive 9/8/2015 Montana National Bank Billings 201 North Broadway 3/142022 Moss. Preston B. House Billings Address Restricted 4/30/1982 North Elevation Historic District Billings Bounded by 12a Avenue N.. alley between N. 31- Street & N. 3OT Street. 9-A.N. & 32. Street N. 1129/2016 North Austin House Billings 622 N. 29-Sleet 11/23/1977 Northern Hotel i itfnsgs 19 N. Broadway 6/122013 O'Donnell l.D-House Billings 105 Clark Avert 1123/1977 Oliver Building Billings 2702 Montana Avenue 12/192008 Pamnly Billings Memorial Libra Bifngs 2822 Montana Avenue 1026/1972 Pictographfave Billings 7 miles SE of Billings in lean Caves Park 10/15/1966 Pioneer Park Billings Roughly bounded by Parkhill Dore, 3; 51reetW.& Vi inia lane 4/13/2021 Prescott Commora Billings Pomrock Road 4/30/1982 Ruth Harold and Marion House Billings 111 Emttald Drive 621/2007 US Post Office & Courthouse -Bill s Billings 26021e Avenue N 3/14t1986 Yegen Christian, House Billings 2085. 35^Street 10/1/1979 Yegen Peter, House Billings 2095. 35^Street 4/16/1980 Antelope Stage Station Broadview Eof Broadriew 1/19/1983 Erb, Abraham &Carlo House Laird 1104-Avenue 6/92005 1 Page K-20 Mjdd Eanern Montana Region Wnd Mitigation Nan Annex K YNbv _County Ea— Montana ii4_ W rod M vt_ Nan Mrcex K VNlaw[:ane County Laruel Dcs,r:own Historic 7 •aghly boundti b/ the Burinvtos 11,hem 5.,n:a District La A FeRtilway Compaq tracks m:Fr S, r1wd S to the N. 9/1ti2010 yr ondnu a.�g Massman Ch2rpaii Cr:rel 1•lil: 57, N. cyli4l F:ontsjc RcN _ 3/25y:012 PvmPeys Plllar Pillar�ys W. of PcmFcy lu'/15/19Gi Huntley Endge Huiley M4e12.MT312 3/262012 Source: National Reg•stu of Hlstonc Places NIL.-- AtUwes (rewds up until end o12012) hrmt_/Awwv_�+s aoi/srhien</natdrulrtdsr.r/databasn-rwarch hrm Halional Register of Historic Place, NPGallery Database(rewrds listed after 2013)httnsl/noaallary avnrhn Natural Resources Natural resources are important to include in benefit -cost analyses for future projects and may be used to leverage additional funding for projects that also contribute to Community goals for protecting sensitive natural resources. Awareness of natural assets can lead to opportunities for meeting multiple objectives. For instance, protecting wetlands preserves sensitive habitats as well as attenuates and stores flood waters. Wetlands are a valuable natural resource for communities, due to their benefits to water quality wildlife protection, recreation, and education, and play an important role in hazard mitigation. Yellowstone County has over lakes and reservoirs. The County is made up of approximately 16 square miles of water. Endangered Species A table of endangered and threatened species in the State of Montana, as identified by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Montana Ecological Services Field Office, can be found in the Assets Summary Section in Chapter of the base plan. K4 Vulnerability to Specific Hazards Vulnerability to hazards that can affect the Eastern Region is described in Section 4.2 Hazard Profiles of the Eastern Region base plan. The analysis of vulnerability in the base plan includes the type, location, and extent of hazards. In addition, the base plan provides an analysis of the vulnerability of seven classes of assets (People; Property, Critical Facilities and Lifelines; the Economy, Historic and Cultural Resources; and Natural Resources). Subsections within Section 4.2 of the Eastern Region base plan provide descriptions and analysis of the exposure of each asset class to each hazard, the susceptibility of each asset class to damage fmm exposure to each hazard, and the overall vulnerability of each class of asset to each hazard. This section details quantif ablevulnerability to specific hazards, only where it differs from that or the Region as a whole. The results of detailed GIs analyses used to estimate potential for future losses are presented here, in addition to maps of hazard areas, details byjurisdiction, and building type. For a discussion of the methodology used to develop the loss estimates, refer to Chapter4 of the base plan. In many uses, Chapter 4 contains information that differentiates the risk by county, thus the information is not duplicated here. For most of the weather -related hazards the risk does not vary significantly enough from the rest of the Region and thus the reader should refer to Chapter 4. Only unique issues or vulnerabilities are discussed, where applicable. Hazards considered in this HMP update annex are as follows. • Avalanche • Communicable Disease • Cyber-AtOCk • Dam Failure • Drought •Earthquake • Flooding • Hazardous Materials Incident • Landslide • Severe Summer Weather •Severe Winter Weather • Human Conflict • Tornadoes & Windstorms • Transportation Accidents • Volcanic Ash • Wldfire • Ditch and Drain Failure K.4.1 Avalanche IC4.3 Cyber-Attack All servers, networks, and users are vulnerable to cyber.mtads in Eastern Montana. Yellowstone County is ranked high, along with moat Omer counties in the Re: ion. hue have been no recorded cyber- attack v ants occurring in the County or its junA ctions. hav:eacr miner cybu attar<s such as pnish:ng emails aan go unreported. V/nile all neCux'a and servers are egaallywlnerablm tocyber-attacks, the City of Sillings has a greater population and therefore more people exposed to a cyber-attack event. Refer to Chapter 4 for a discussion of me cybei-attack nsk relative to Yellowstone County and the Eastern Region, 15.4.4 Dam Failure Dam failure in Yellowstone County and the Town of Broadview is rated a low significance hazard. The City of Billings and the City of Laurel rate dam failure as a medium significance hazard (Table K-5). Chapter 4 Provides a discussion of the dam failure risk in the Eastern Region, including Yellowstone County. See Section 424 Dam Failure. There is one high hazard dam (HHPD) in Yellowstone County (Lakeside Dam), and two significant hazard potential dams in the County(Table K-10, Figure K-8). GIs delineations of thedam failure inundation zoned for these dams are unavailable. This prevents identification of specific assets that could be exposed in the event of a dam failure. The analysis of vulnerable assets, below does not consider failure of these three dams. Refer to Chapter 4 for a discussion of the dam failure risk relative to Yellowstone County and the Eastern Region, and of the typical reasons that dam failure inundation zones are not made available for hazard mitigation planning. At least two additional HHPDs exist upstream of Yellowstone County and are discussed below. Table K-10 Dams in Yellowstone County The Cooney Dam is an HHPD upstream of Yellowstone County in Carbon County, seven miles west of Boyd and 19 miles west of Joliet (Figure K-8). This irrigation reservoir is owned by the Montana DNRC, measures 102 feet tall, nearly a half -mile wide, and has the potential to inundate parts of both Laurel and Billings. The inundation zone for this dam was made available for this HMP update and is shown in purple on Figure K-8. The delineation extendsjust past Billings and stops, despite the fact that dam failure hazards would continue further downstream The analysis of assets in Yellowstone County that are vulnerable to dam failure hazards is based entirely on this one delineation. The Yellowtail Dam and Reservoir is another HHPD upstream of Yellowstone County. This dam is a concrete thin -arch hydroelectric dam, towering 525 feet and stretching 1,480 feet across Bighorn Canyon in Big Hom Page K-21 _---' Page K-23 Eastem Mmtma Region Woad Mitigation Ran Mnex K YNloxstme County An avalanche is a low significance hazard for Yellowstone County and its jurisdictions (Table K-5). To distinguish between counties where avalanches have not occurred and those that have no possibility of avalanche occurrence, FEMA seated a control table overlaying avalanche forecast zones and counties which have experienced losses due to credible avalanche events. Based on this analysis, Yellowstone County was determined to be an area where avalanches have no possibility of occurrence. Therefore, mitigation actions were not included for this hazard. Refer to Chapter 4 for a discussion of the avalanche risk relative to Yellowstone County and the Eastern Region. K.4.2 Communicable Disease All populations are vulnerable to communicable disease. Elder populations, young children, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions are more likely to face long lasting impacts from communicable disease. While areas of high population density are likely to experience a greater number of Cases due to a larger population, these larger cities also have greater access to medical resources. Communicable disease is ranked as a high significance hazard for Yellowstone County and there were no notecijurisc ictional differences. As Billings is the largest city in an approximately 500-mile radius, it serves as a medical hub for approximately two-thirds of Montana and a significant portion of boarding states, making communicable disease a significant threat in Yellowstone Counry.z Billings is also the only city in Montana with a certified Level 1 Trauma Center.z As of October 2023, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Yellowstone County reported approximately 47,850 confirmed cases of COMD-19 in Yellowstone County. Among these uses, 2,913 individuals were hospitalized directly related to COVID-19, with 302 admitted to the ICU, and nearly 580 deaths. According to USA Facts, the pandemic resulted in a 12%increase in closures of retail food establishments and 13%increase closures of wholesale food establishments. All K-12 schools were closed from March 16, 2020, through May 6, 2020. Refer to Chapter for a discussion of the communicable disease risk relative to Yellowstone County and the Eastern Region. ahnps'JldventonehealN.ag/about-Gllirgs-montane/ a hops/Aaww tilGngstinicmm/urJ.as-spedalees/emergency-senacezMuma-services/ Eanem Munn Reglm Wad Mitigation Nan Mm, K Ydlw.stone County County. Failureof this dam would inundate the land along the Bighorn River on the eastern boundary of Yellowstone County. The dam inundation zone for the Yellowtail Dam is unavailable and the potential impact of failure of this dam on assets is not included in the vulnerability analysis below. The SoVI-based rating of social vulnerability is relatively low in Yellowstone County (Section K2.4 Social Vulnerability). Regardless of how Yellowstone County rates in social vulnerability, severe Roods can be devastating events that are difficult to recover from both financially and emotionally. Floods may result in injuries or fatalities in situations with limited warning or when evacuation orders are not adhered to. Table K-11 Table K-11 summarizes the estimated number of improved parcels, building values, and people within inundation zones in Yellowstone County by property type. A total of 5,971 people reside within the dam inundation zone in Yellowstone County, aver 3%of the total County population. Half of these people 3,017, live in Billings. Yellowstone County has a 513 billion total property value located within the inundation zone. Residential properly types represent the greatest total number of improved parcels and most property value, with approximately 5621 million in total property value at risk A substantial amount of people (over 5,000 estimated) reside within the limited inundation area mapped in the County (primarily Cooney Dam); thus the risk of loss of life and injury would be significant without adequate warning and evacuation. The SoVI-based rating of social vulnerability is relatively low in Yellowstone County (Section K2.4 Social Vulnerability). Regardless of how Yellowstone County rates in social vulnerability, severe Roods can be devastating events that are difficult to recover from both financially and emotionally. Floods may result in injuries or fatalities in situations with limited warning or when evacuation orders are not adhered to. Table K.11 Yellowstone County Parcels at Risk to Dam Inundation by Property Type Commercial 9 52,129A70 f2.129,410 54,256820 - &emlat tit S8Q771,767 S80,T71,767 5761,543,534 - Irdustrial 13 $1B,3M.53D 527.456795 $45,761,325 - Residential 11306 $230,399.990 5115,199,995 5345,599,985 3,017 Vacant 4 $57,290 $57.290 $114580 - Total 1.373 $331,662.987 5225,615,2j7 f557,2711240 3,011 Agrivdtural 35 58.934,450 $8,934A50 $17,866900 - Commerdal 4 $1,972630 $1.972,630 $3,945260 - Btempt 20 559,791,770 $59,791,770 $119.583,540 - Industrial 7 f1fzA264,770 524t1391.155 $400,661,925 - Residential 1,279 $183,987,409 591,993,705 $275,981.114 2954 Vacant 21 5176370 $176.370 $352.740 Total 1,366 $415.127.399 $403,266,090 5818,393,479 2,954 Grand Total Z139 $746.790.336 $628.981.337 51,375,671,723 5,971 Page K-22 Page K-24 fate. M--. Region HuaN M,ligaoon elan Mnex K Ydlomlone County Ea•.tem Montana 0.egwn Hazard Mitiga5an Pan Mnex K Yd bnslone Counl7 Source: County Assessor data, MID, MT DNRC. WSP GIS Anilysis Figure K-8 Yellowstone County Dam Inundation �l EedaralrOared tam �--. Rr.oea � r.N,ai» a.me 0i.:w Paaal —fw6.m ♦ N9+ -InMrab c�oss6nn A 6'pfdtMt Qavrvcaxna --. � non I+undabr � Cpmeaa � �.ama Q Rapma laaaa � Tier Bpmerea� MMEt.SirELL t we. L1EY c CODNIY WLLOwBTONE erva... COUNTY `r 9G/.. .i I IIIG HORN Cxsuntt Lakealda♦ d � aR IYi41i jT w l Emtem EI ,o sin-aatenri El COUNTY Es F' w,.waveerzoezx 0 Is ax.,,4.aaa.m_wP.ea...a.h A DWK Dam S.Nh Paerya K4.5 Drought There are several known fault systems throughout the State of Montana, mostly concentrated in the Western Reg -on (Figure 4-24). The pro Dilityof e<pasure to earthquake hazards, however, is nut uniform across the state. Mail but not a!i. earthquake epicenters a% well west of tie Eastern Region and Yellwrstorse County and 1•e'lowstone County is roughhy on the edge of the area Iden4fied by USGS as having a gligtr0y elevated earthq/zke risk on :rue long -rerun National Seismic Map tFig-re 4.27) In term: of :usteptibIlity to earthquake damage. Yellowstone County has a few key concern. First. most pars of ve::c,'5:one County have soils with an insignificant risk of lic—action Howeve . liquefaction ris< is elevated and e•,en moderate in rivervalleys, where most development has occirred (figure 425). Seccnd, Yellowstone Counry is physicallycloser to seismicaly active areas than most counties in the Eastern Region (Figure 4.24). Third, Yellowstone County has relatively well -developed cities, especially Billings but also Broadview and Laurel. Taken together, Yellowstone County is near enough to seismically active areas to experience harmful ground shaking, has soils that could magnify the impacts of shaking on buildings, and has many structures that would be exposed to ground shaking hazards in the event of a major earthquake According to a Hams probabilistic loss analysis conducted for a scenario with 2%In 50 years recurrence. The probabilistic scenario estimated Yellowstone County will experience the highest total economic losses in the Eastern Region of any county in the Eastern Region. Hazus-simulated economic losses in Yellowstone County were S71,054,000, which is over half of all losses in the Eastern Region and more than double the next -most impacted county (Table 4-24). While alljurisi ictions in the Countyhave adopted building codes, the City of Billings and City of Laurel are likely to experience greatest losses due to the concentration of population and infrastructure and therefore have higher risk ratings. Older and historic buildings, constructed before adoption of building codes, are more vulnerable to earthquake shaking. Chapter4 provides a further discussion of the earthquake risk relative to Yellowstone County and the Eastern Region. K4.7 Flooding Flooding is rated as a high significance hazard in Yellowstone County and all three participatingjurisdictions (Table K-5). Table K-12 below summarizes the building counts and improved value of parcels in the County that fall within the 1% chance Foodplains. A total of 1,830 people reside within the 1% chance Foociplain in Yellowstone County, approximately 1% of the total County population. Of these people, 6% (111) live in Billings and 360 (-20%) live in Laurel. Additionally, Table K-12 summarizes loss estimate values, which are calculated based upon the improved value of parcels that fall within the 1% chance Foodplain, and estimated contents value and assumes a two - foot -deep Flood which usually results in losses equal to 25% of the total value, based on FEMA depth - damage curves. NFHL Rood data was used to perform this analysis. For context Yellowstone County as a whole has the second greatest total value within the 1% annual chance Rood zone and the second greatest estimated loss of any county in the Eastern Region, behind only Custer County (Table 4-31 in the base plan). The greatest liability in terms of Food damage is to residential property. Residential parcels make up 87%of the parcels and 65%of the total value within the 1% annual chance Food zone in Yellowstone County, Billings, Laurel, and the Crow Indian Reservation (Table K-12). Nearly 1,800 people reside in the 1% annual chance Foodplain, the majority within the unincorporated area and laurel. The SoVI-based rating of social vulnerability is relatively low in Yellowstone County (Section K24 Social Vulnerability). Regardless of how Yellowstone County rates in social vulnerability, severe floods can be devastating events that are difficult to recover from both financially and emotionally. Floods may result in Page K-2S .'4i Page K-27 Eaten Montana Region Word Miligation Ran MnexKYeliov,, n County Drought was rated as a hazard of high significance hazard in Yellowstone County and all three participatingjudsdictions (Table K-5). Yellowstone County experienced 12 USDA drought declarations from 2012-2021. These declarations occurred in 2012, 2013, 2016, 2017, 2019, 2020, and 2021. Per the Billings Chamber of Commerce, 'The major crops grown in Yellowstone County are alfalfa, wheat barley, m, and sugar beets. Alfalfa and other hay grown in the area is predominantly raised and saved to feed livestock during the colder months' 4 The Drought Impact Reporter recorded 16 drought impact reports in Yellowstone County between 2000-2023, including, low hay reserves and slowing alfalfa growth.sa The U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM) is a national data set released weekly, showing the severity, of drought in locations across the nation. Figure K-9 displays a time series showing the severity of drought in Yellowstone County between 2000 and 2023. The figure indicates that the County experienced exceptional drought (134) in 2004. The HMPC and CPT noted that the Governor's Drought and Water Supply Advisory Committee meets monthly to share water supply and moisture conditions to effectively manage natural resources and support constituents most likely to be affected by drought Refer to Chapter 4 for a discussion of the drought risk relative to Yellowstone County and the Eastern Region. Chapter of the base plan provides a discussion of the drought risk relative to Yellowstone County and the Eastern Region. In particular, all assets are exposed to drought but assets are variably impacted by drought In the case of Yellowstone County and its jurisdictions, dry -land agriculture is especially vulnerable. In terms of financial impact to agriculture, Yellowstone County is not among the most impacted counties in the Eastern Region (Figure 4-22). though the County does have an expected annual loss rating of relatively moderate from the MR] (Figure 4-23). As is the use across the tastem Region, climate change is projected to cause a moderate increase in drought frequency in coming decades (see the base plan, Section 4.2.5, subsection Climate Change Considerations). Figure K-9 Yellowstone County Percent Area in USDM Categories Xv scat �j, cn Daum, it Dhl i'. DIA':cerare Paua'.n Eradneee0ra"o 11111101.1__o Pv '�Wn.<rW:mlOroutTrs Source, USOt t wswvdrotmhtaav K4.6 Earthquake Earthquake is rated as low significance hazard in Yellowstone County Overall, though all three participating jurisdictions within the County rated it as a medium significance hazard (Fable K-5). a hap&/M+wv.tilfngsNamber,com/Cuuness-adwaq/agnalNre/ s hMs/Asww xDy ram/ruewspocal-ruews/montane-9R•wn-naigating-hry-shanageauringdmughs 5 htps//unld,4hlce mapsartgiscam/apes/dashEaaNs/66are5i7bb6042E1059<4d/0059c09cf- f mxm Moniva Region Haza,J Miligaboe Ran Mnex K Ytlioastone Cwnry injuries or fatalities in situations with limited warning or when evacuation orders are not adhered to, Confirming the high vulnerability to Food hazards, Yellowstone County has experienced the highest historical National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) dollars paid of any county in the Eastern Region (see Table 4-27 in the Base Plan, section National Flood Insurance Program PolicyAnalysis). Table K-12 Yellowstone County Parcels at Risk to 1% Flood Hazard by Jurisdiction Commercial 1 $57.920 $57,9207;$;"!1m 28.960 - Fxempt Residembl Exempt 5 48 1 1 f10,596740 514421.652 $592E0 SIO.596,74298,370 - $6.210,826658,120 S59,26029,630 illAgri.Iral - $160.640 $160.6408g320 - Commercial Exempt 3 1 Sd47,840 $178,540 $447.840 S895,680 $223,920 - $178.540 $357,080 589270 - Residential Agri.]..] Commercial 156 94 1 $4,54671 $19,337,510 $2,273,336 $19,337,510 S6,820.007 $38.675.020 $1,705,002 360 $9.668.755 - S68,070 $68070 $13SW $34.035 - Exempt 5 $1.579,ODO SI.579,000 S3.158,000 $789.500 - Industrial Residential vacant 4 588 7 $13,960.030 $104,865.256 - S49,340 S20,940.045 S34,900,075. $8,725,019 - S52A32628 S49,340 S157.297,88e $39,324,471 1,358 $98.680 $24.670 - Total 91S I $168,328,469 $114,391,695 S282,720,164 $70,680.041 1.930 NOTE -A portion of the Crow Tribeis located in Yellowstone County, although predominantly located in Big Horn Caunty. Sources DNRC. Hams FEMA NFHI Yellowstone County has a total of 71 cribul facilities located in the 1% annual chance Foodplain. 55 are transportation lifelines, six are communication facilities• five are energy facilities, two are food water and shelter and one is Safety and Security facilities. This is shown in Table K-13. Floodplain hazard areas are shown in Figure K-10 through Figure K-13. Page W__ Page K-28 Ea— Montana Region Wrvd Mrtig o-flan An— K Ydlowstone worry Table K-13 Critical Facilities at Risk to 1%Annual Chance Flood Hazards by FEMA Lifeline Notional Flood Insurance Program The NFIP aims to reduce the impact of flooding on private and public structures by providing affordable insurance to property owners and by encouraging communities to adopt and enforce floodplain management regulations. These efforts help mitigate the effects of flooding on new and improved structures. The State has analyzed NFIP flood -loss data to determine areas of Montana's EasternRegion with the greatest Rood risk Montana s Eastern Region flood -loss information was obtained from FEMA's 'Montanan Coverage Claims' for Montana's Eastern Region, which documents losses from 1978. This section was updated based on information obtained from FEMAs PIVOT database through Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (MT DNRC1 dated August 10, 2022 There are several limitations to analyzing flood risk entirely on this data, including: Only losses to participating NFIP communities are represented; • Communitiesjoined the NFlP atwiri— times since 1978, The number of flood insurance policies in effect may not include all structures at risk to flooding; and Some of the historical loss areas have been mitigated with property buyouts. Yellowstone County has a total of $76,606,000 in NFIP coverage, with 263 total flood claims, and 275 current policies in place. It also had the highest amount of dollars paid out due to flood claims with S1,814,878 dollars paid out NFIP data and statistics for Yellowstone County is summarized in Table K-14. Table K-14 Yellowstone County NFIP Statistics Yellowstone 1 11,11/1.1 1 11/6/2013 $1,814,878.16 2fi3 275 $7G,fi06,OW Sou ..FEWPi NRP Dm as of Mgun 10•,zzn:lWa C., ukySUW% Book Repon Repetitive Loss Repetitive losses are NFIP-insured structures that have had at least two paid flood losses of more than S1,000 each in any ten-year period since 1978. Yellowstone County has a total of 21 repetitive loss properties as of 2022 Ten of these structures are in Billings, four are in Laurel, two are in Worden, and the remaining five are in the unincorporated County. Ea— Montana Region W.N Mitigat. P.- ...neaK Yd:om[one Cwn:y Figure K-10 Yellowstone County Flood Hazard and Structures ..."-1.0,—F1mdd.e—is - 'I, 2WFEYa 1%Mnuy Mane — Mxnlav ROSEBUo QC _ N.nna Qpi Oc Thal Beu - A- We MUSSELSHELL LllY COUNT' tt YELLOWSTONE - Bmy.ra COUNTY . Rr.. L WG u C couNW l LF 11__ EeHen El G BON ! 1 ne Ea . COUNTY �-. .E3,. E6 .OES N 1a7e}nPild[yr$(a= aabdpenigpap�aonr. i ewo Yw+siv Sall tLnY. aytc, Fesyt woo Page K-29 Page K-31 = Eastem Montana Region Wnrd Mitigation nun Mnex I[ YAlawstone County Severe Repetitive Loss (SRU properties have either four or more separate claims for Rood damage (with each claim exceeding SS,DDO and with the sum of all payments exceeding $20,000) or two or more separate claims where the total of all claims exceeds the value of the property. Yellowstone County has no SRL properties. Table K-15 below lists that Yellowstone County has 21 repetitive loss structures, 53 repetitive loss claims and $747,59202 in funding paid. Table K-15 Repetitive Lon Properties in Yellowstone County Repetitive Smid— Stnttun _ R•po. Stratton Type CourHy SW chnt Loy siingH- Muki--RudnaW Totd Paid Out po County Caine Fa dy Family Nan-Rrddndid Eastem Montana Region Hz.W Mitigation flan Mnex K Yd Iowstone County Figure K-11 City of Billings Flood Hazard and Structures • 1%F1ooMa eeuR••a cooey keel • os+s rlooe.a smrcwn. FEW Fbaa Haruea 1%MnuN Cearra is .,e 02%MnuJ Ciurw ❑ swan. ;�—+1 Raeoae L�J BexNa o m- a .. wnr.�a xw tta..rF ON -- Pa ge K-30 Page K-32 F-- MRntana Rag:m WaW Mingation Flm Anne. K Ydlan:ane Cmnry Eastem Mmu^+Reg— WaW Wis.—flan Mne• K YellawLtme County Figure K-12 Town of Broadview Flood Hazard and Structures Carry lNat r f .t pppp t I I i I j I I i 1 I � I. x'+p rs^ arLtOS a o1a OS Nwa aea M pwa>na pu,paaeaarr. Da+na+c• Lbnwv nwY La.uy n: wG, rExtA Wow Figure K.14 below displays the location of bridges in Yellowstone County and their condition. Refer to Chapter 4 of the base plan fora discussion of the flood risk relative to Yellowstnw County and the Eastem Region. Figura K-14 Yellowstone County Bridges !rle.saaPcnar snsan---.. sn.r. Qxrabsa x,'x-a„ awa Cm6tbn ..... t l+kn Q TrbM eoundan. e rw noaEeaO couxir wnaaw. �.�� • rm•cmaom—M9�usM. .____. 6cour bM-rl &been �Myw ■ roe ae'1aixOn O aam — ■ PmrCmMm QCour2m , EM NI1cOtAn «ev courn TY YELLOw9TONE - _ — r _- - •.\ :. w co COUNTY— cronies ,I ) i EeYem E1 '. EG CAPapI irmpq f Imot Ee �En erne. b+..en A Page K-33 - Page K-35 - 1 ranem Montana Regan aaW Mitigation Ran Annex K Ydloxctorie County Figure K-13 City of Laurel Flood Hazard and Structures • 1M f1oN 1Seudum CaieeylmM • ass rlmaeeswswm. FEIrA rboE NaaWa _- '; 03yLAmual LTanu aarrr. A Na ios xa +T.ar wL�emr. Eastem Ift—Regim W aW Mitigabon non annex K Ydlowtone Counry K4.8 Hazardous Materials Incident Hazardous Materials Incidents are ranked as a high overall significance hazard for Yellowstone County. Yellowstone County has 11 Risk Management Program (RMP) facilities, and according to the National Response Center (NRC), there were 621 reported hazardous material incidents in the County since 1990, the greatest number in the Eastern Region. Yellowstone County also has gas transmission pipelines present which travel through the communities of Billings and Laurel. as well as the unincorporated County. Hazardous liquid pipelines also traverse the County, going through Lockwood and Billings, as well as the unincorporated County. Many major transportation routes also cross Yellaystone County, including US Interstates 90 and 94, US Highways 87, 212 and 310, and Montana State Highways 3 and 47. These transportation routes are likely locations for future occumences of hazardous material incidents in transit Refer to Chapter for a discussion of the hazardous materials incident risk relative to Yellowstone County and the Eastern Region. K4.9 Landslide Landslide is rated as a low significance hazard in Yellowstone County and all three participating jurisdictions (Fable K-5). Section 4.2.9 Landslide provides an analysis of the landslide hazard in the Eastern Region, Yellowstone County has an unusually high exposure to landslide hazards relative to the typically -very law exposure in most parts of the Eastern Region (Figure 4-40, 4-41). Yellowstone is one of two counties in the Eastern Region recognized as having an elevated landslide frequency (Figure 4-42). Nevertheless, the NRI rates Yellowstone County as having a relatively law risk index rating and a relatively moderate expected annual loss rating (Figure 4-43 and 4-44). Unincorporated areas in the southwest of the County greater relief may be more likely to experience landslides. The probability of landslide is greater in spring. The greatest area of concern is in the Billings area below the Rimrocks, a geological rimrock sandstone formation, also called the Rims. Table K-16lists landslide events in Yellowstone County that were recorded by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) or included in the 2019 Yellowstone County HMP. Although certain events are documented by both sources, it's important to note that no single database comprehensively captures the entire history of landslide events, therefore this is an inexhausbve list If landslide hazards occur, some assets are susceptible to damage, following a similarpattern as is discussed for each class of asset in Section 4.29, subsection titled VulnerobilityAssessment. According to the CPT, Yellowstone County has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars in mitigation, repair, and response to landslide and rockfall events over the last fewyeam. The County CPT says a landslide occurring to the Billings Bench Water Association (BBWA) ditch is one of the most eminent and dangerous threats curtently facing the County. Such an event could lead to a breach of the BBWA ditch, which would cause major flooding to the downtown area. For more information refer to Chapter for a discussion of the landslide risk relative to Yellowstone County and the Eastern Region. Page K-34 Page K-36 I Eastern Matana 0.M. Weed Mitigationflm Anne-, K Ydbwstone Count' D.— -ntma Region W mN Mitigation Tan A ne.K Y91aws:one County Table K-16 Recorded Landslide Events in Yellowstone County 1.. No ate was twit when a huge baldn, u.uhed mra,gh t back of a house at 1313 G-Re Ave in oct B, Blllmgc.A wet spot just beta.-,ine u m of the nimzks siwwed .vheie a lane slab of sarvlsrrxe fell 20 to- orfrhesi,ie.fth,Pzms. hcmkeimodazensefo,'eswF,mWith!tthee3rlhbelawandlhelargest piece slammed through the back of a wooden hawse rim rak ra'1—sed a nose dnaibcd as thunder or an expl— and the dust cloud was larger Oran the Rims. Two rock falls fixing P buch led to the dowse of Zimmerman Park The park was clesed for approximately two months until a stabilization project was completed. and the dly road am May 12, repaired the guardrail and damaged pavement The MT DePL of Transportation paid a contractor 2014a over S7C0,000 for i rock removal and stabilization project at six locations along Zimmerman Trait Backslide seas were also identified at Swards Park and several hundred tom of rock were removed to mitigate rocks from falling into Sixth Avenue North May Ia. Phipps Park on Molt Road west of Bdfngt was forced to dose after a rockslide. A park user 2016•" witnessed the rockshde and said a large portion of the rock just separated from the rimrock A -geotedwical survey was done of the area and eaisfing trails in the rod: fall wine were m-routed May"' A rockfall incident of medium scale with an unknown trigger, originated from the Rim rocks in 2017" northern Billings causing a significant rockslide in the area Massive boulders were thrown through residential structure, resulting in substantial damage A resident was VM in bed when she heard the roaring noise of about 150yards of sandstone diff June 26. faze breaking free (mot the rlmrodks and rolling towards her house below, The rockslide smashed 2018— through her garage on the 220 Nock of Mountain Yew Boulevard and covered roughly 75 yards of road below the Rims with rocks and debris. No one was irqured. Massive boulders, comparable in size to an all-temain vehicle and the cab of a semi -truck detached August 15, from the Rims These sizable pieces of sandstone were propelled through a residem, in Billings, 2018" with ore boulder finding its resting place inside what appeared to be the fving room sea The family was notijured in the incident and r, gas foes were damaged. • eunsyrraxam mmgaoon rise -- crux unasuaermmroy, hens Jrvmwv,moartnd,Jm,-Iarddide invmtmry K4.10 Severe Summer Weather Severe summer weather is rated as a high significance hazard in Yellowstone County and all three participatingjurisdictions (Table K-5). The impact of summer weather hazards in Yellowstone County is variable but by far most significant for hail. According to the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) Storm Events Database, Yellowstone County experienced the second greatest number of total severe summer weather events in Eastern Region, including 447 hail events, 5 heavy rain and 4lightning events.7 Property losses from severe summer weather in Yellowstone County totaled to 514,085,500 from 19SS to 2022 (44.5%of total losses in the Eastern Region), mainly due to hail events. Yellowstone County also experienced $2,500,000 in total crop losses from severe summer weather during the same time period V.8% of total crop losses in the Eastern Region). 7 The Ka Database records tomadoevents ham January 1950 to present tomado, thunderstorm wind. and hail form January 1955 to present and all othmhaued ew-frvn ranuary 1996 to present this hazard relative to Yellowstone County and the Eastern Region. From that analysis, all assets are exposed to tornadoes and windstorms. According to the NCEI Storm Events Database, Yell=tone County experienced the sigh greatest number of high vind and strong wind evaslts In the Eastem Realm, with 72 cotal events between lanuey 1996 and December 2022. Addlcionaliy, Ydf—tone Canty experienced the second greatest number of thandetstotm wind events (b--, Ja-ilry 1536 and lanuary 7022) and tomado events (between January 1950 and December 2022). with a comoined 321 events Many assets in Yellowstone County are susceptible to damage from tomadoss and windstorms, following the pattern described in Section 42.13. subsection Vunembilify Assessment. Most significantly for Yellowstone County. Mobile homes, which are disproportionately susceptible to tornado and windstorm events, comprise 7.3%of total housing in Yellowstone County. Yellowstone County experienced the fifth greatest losses recorded by the NCEI Storm Events Database from thunderstorm wind events in the Eastern Region, with over 53.2 million in recorded property and crop damages, two deaths and three injuries. Yellowstone County also experienced the greatest losses from tomado evenn in the Eastern Region, with 532.58 million in recorded property and crop damages, together with three injuries. K4.14 Transportation Accidents Transportation accidents are an overall high significance hazard for Yellowstone County. Yellowstone County has reported by far the greatest number of roadway crashes in the Ea stem Region, with 16,475 crashes between 2016 and 2020. On average, this equates to 3,295 reported crashes annually. While transportation accidents can occur along any type of transportation route in the County and the Region a greater frequency of accidents occur along heavily traveled roadways, such as US Interstate 90 (1-90), which traverses the County, intercepting the Cities of Billings and Laurel, and Montana State Highway 3, which connects Billings to Great Falls, intercepting the Town of Broadview. Due to the presence of these roadways, along with the significant tourism volume, and the much higher population density than much of the Region, there is a high likelihood that this hazard will continue to occur at generally higher frequencies than most other counties in the Region. Refer to Chapter for a discussion of the transportation accident risk relative to Yellowstone County and the Eastern Region. K4.15 Volcanic Ash All counties in the Eastern Region and all jurisdictions within Yellowstone County ranked volcanic ash as a low significance hazard. Chapter 4. specifically Section 4.2.15 Vo/mnicAsh, provides an analysis of this hazard relative to Yellowstone County and the Eastern Region. The frequency and extent of volcanic ashfall is likely to be consistent across the Eastern Region and is discussed in Section 4.2.15, subsections Past Occurrences and Frequenrypike9hood of0a,tt rence. All assets are potentially exposed to volcanic ash. Even assets located indoors are exposed when ash penetrates the ventilation system of buildings. Many assets in Yellowstone County are susceptible to damage from volcanic ash, following the pattern described in Section 4.215, subsection VulnembilifyAssessme,it Page K-37 - Page K-39 -771 Fasten Montana Region W rand Mtigation flan Anne. K Yelowstone Crony All assets located outdoors are exposed to hail, extreme heat and heavy raim lightning typically strikes the highest objects in an area but can cause hazardous power surges that extend much further. Lightning strikes can also start fires. The secondary effects of fire are discussed in the section below titled Wildfire. The greatest property losses are likely to occur in the City of Billings, where people and infrastructure are concentrated. Refer to Chapter 4 for a discussion of the severe summer weather risk relative to Yellowstone County and the Eastern Region. K.4.11 Severe Winter Weather Severe winter weather is rated as a high significance hazard in Yellowstone County and all three participatingjurisdictions (Table K-5). Section 4211 Severe Winter Weather in the Eastern Region base plan provides an analysis of these hazards in the region and relative to Yellowstone County. The main hazards of concern are blizzard, cold, heavy snow. ice storms, winter storms and winter weather, defined in Section 4.2.11. From that analysis, all assets located outdoors are exposed to these hazards and indoor plumbing is an additional concern for cold. Many assets in Yellowstone County are susceptible to damage from severe winter weather, followdng the pattern described in Section 4211, subsection VulnerabilityAuessment. Yellowstone County experienced the tenth greatest number of NCEI recorded severe winter weather events in the Eastern Region and the NRI rated Yellowstone County as "relatively low' risk Index rating for wintermather. 'The NCEI Stonn Events Database recorded a total of $14,000 in property losses due to severe winter events in Yellowstone County from 1996 to (<1% of total recorded losses in the Eastern Region). However, the Storm Events Database uses data from the National Weather Service (NWS) for historical and current events, so any property loss data that was not reported to N WS will not be represented. The USDA recorded over $4 million in crop losses in Yellowstone from cold winter weather, freeze, and frost between 2007 and 2021. Portions of the population are particularly susceptible to winter hazards. These populations include those who are houseless or who work outside. Susceptibility of agriculture operations is also a significant concem. Further analysis of Writer weather impacts, including NRI ratings, is provided in Section 4211 Severe Winter Weather: K4.12 Human Conflict Human conflict is ranked as an overall high significance for Yellowstone County. Only one of the seven reported terrorist attacks in Montana occurred in the Eastern Region, a 1970 event that targeted police in Billings. Additionally, Billings experienced more than half of the total civil unrest incidents in the Region recorded by Count Love, while Laurel had one documented civil unrest incident- Al cities and towns are vulnerable to human conflicts, human conflict events tend to occur in more populated areas. Refer to Chapter for a discussion of the human conflict risk relative to Yellowstone County and the Eastern Region. K4.13Tomadoes & Windstorms Tomadoes and windstorms are rated as a high significance hazard in Yellowstone County and all three partidpatingjurisdidions (fable K-5). Chapter 4 of the base plan, specifically Section 4213 Tornadoes & Windstorms, provides an analysis of a cam lot r.md.d Wbfi dsplri, of prmert, la mlanueyz0,2.11, and January 31,2021, Nat wove not. ut d'r.gular busineq' diw rid ilex indad..wnmn, .,—t,t hllA or pddd nnpilgn Mr.. hnR4/rundne.ar9/raglrrtl Eastern Montana Region Wnrd Mitigation flan An—X Yelewxtene Canty K4.16Wildfire Wildfire is rated as a high significance hazard in Yellowstone County and all three participating jurisdictions (Table K-5). Wildfire hazards in the Eastern Region and Yellowlitobe County are evaluated in the base plan Section 4.2.16 Wildfire Many assets in Yellowstone County are susceptible to damage from wildfire, following the pattern described in Section 4213, subsection VulnerabilityAssessment. The analysis below compliments the base plan and provides greater detail relevant to Yellowstone County, the City of Billings. City of Laurel, and the Town of Broadview. Yellowstone County has been included in seven federal disaster declarations for wildfire, including two declarations in 2020 and one in 2021. These fires, the Bobcat Fire (2020). the Falling Star Fire (2020), and the Buffalo Fire (2021). resulted in evacuations, tens of thousands of burned acres, and minimal damage to structures, but no deaths or injuries. The CPT did not single out any wildfire events in the past five years. Billings is the largest city in the State, and Yellowstone County is the most populous county. This high population density lends itself to high numbers of individuals living in fire risk areas. Yellowstone County has by far the greatest number of individuals in the Eastern Region in wildfire risk areas, with over 85%of the population (about 140,000 people) living in a fire risk area, representing 60% of all Eastern Region residents who live in fire risk areas (Table K-17). All participating jurisdictions exist in very high and extreme Fire risk zones. - - • - The SOVI-based rating of social vulnerabilityis telativelylowin Yellowstone County(Section U4 Social Vulnerability). Regardless of how Yellowstone County rates in social vulnerability, wildfires can be devastating events that are difficult to recover from both financially and emotionally. Wildfires may result in injuries or fatalities in situations with limited roaming or when evacuation orders are not adhered to. Table K-17 summarizes the estimated exposed value of improvements in each wildfire risk category. Based on this analysis, roughly 116,702 improved parcels are exposed to low/mecum or higher wildfire risk totaling about 539.0 billion in improved building and content value. This represents 99.9%of the total building inventory and building and content value in the County. Wildfires typically result in a total building loss including contents. See Chapter 4 in the base plan for details on the methodology of this analysis. Page K-38 Page K-40 Eartem Montana Region Wrasl Mri,tio Plan A1nV. K Y14ia,otone Coanry -astern Monona Reg— Hand Mitigation Han Mnev K Yella,.stone Counr7 Table K-17 Yellowstone County Parcels at Risk to Wildfire by Jurisdiction and Risk Rating Rating iudwl�i. , ., g46�ys —P—q, 535 �;, 1. Si.42a,3y,Cd1 MVAII(O 57,796724,69 Total Value S5,221,112.359 Population 33,135 eras nirw ' -o _ 57.021.-5 sa,la.;T4, Sltzua7�3; tell $397,535 52251.425 17 crow tribe B i1,253.330 Laaril 2D19 5342160,19E $186,0347S3 $523,219,933 4,a,5 YAlowstorw_ 7.447 S1.321,149,887 $686,274.747 $2007,424,634 16,8al Ccun Billings 16,918 S4.190.610,857 S2,507,107A22 S6,697,718279 38.076 8—hre , 20 S1,6711139 SBX960 $2,508,099 44 Crow Tribe 54 f10,038,442 S7.482196 577,520,638 106 Laurel 843 $113,685,217 S67,472,341 $178.157.558 1,915 Yellovst°- 7,106 S7,835,313,003 SI,017,511.675 $2.852824,678 15,301 Cou Billings 278 S305,806.2M $197,503,398 $503.309.686 S89 Broadview - $- 3- S- - AlPoskta Crow Tribe High 14 $1.696.300 $1,689.150 $3385,450 4 Wildfire Laurel 10 S8.6CA263 $4304,132 S12,912395 23 Hazards Yellowstone C—ly 498 $184,415,496 $148715.065 $333.130,561 684 Total No S500,S26,347 $352.211,744 $852.738.091 1.300 Billings 11,875 $3.941.698,363 $2,343,637,126 S6,285.335A89 26,346 Broadview - $- $_ $_ - AfRisk lO Medw C—Tribe iuMlo 35 S6A80.976 S5.813,428 S72294,407 34 Wildfire Laurel 137 $80,610,328 556246,899 $136,8571227 266 Hazards Yelloxslone Coun 4022 S904.Oi8.783 $830.152.183 $1,734,200966 3,477 rotel 14.069 $4.932.838.450 S3,235,849,636 $8,168,686,086 30,12E NOTE portion of the Crow Tribe is located in Yellowstone County, although predominantly located in Big Hom County. Source. MSDI 202E MWRA Table K-18 summarizes the potential impact of wildfire on critical facilities and lifelines in Yellowstone County and its associatedjurisdictions. The table highlights the" and number of facilities in each jurisdiction in the County in Wildfire risk areas. See Chapter for the methodology of the critical facilities at risk analysis. Figure K-15 Yellowstone County Wildfire Hazard Wl4rre NrurO �tiRaFoed Eauans —New- -,I so—U. K�K11 i'itll �rHM—Ntenr4ee fAUntt sv..na OR k. _ takn Tn oo,_e 11 OEM Nu99ELBHELL LEY cOtratt MTY Orva4.-« YELLOM;rE COVIN, s L `7 ` '4 tw rwRx er s' �\r cWnTY Tx SW'A�etpon Ea E2 m>e4 rzaxz o.uar caananwma..•mY. sou.. NaM.n. wsLwt. Page K-41 Page 43 ` Eastern Montana Region Ward Mitigation Ran Eartem Montana Region Hamne M4gadon Han Mnez K Ydlowttone C ." Mnee K Y9lwsstorw Can" Table K-18 Critical Facilities at Risk to Wildlife Hazards by Jurisdiction, FacilityType, and Risk Rating At Risk Rating Jurisdiction �m©©aomom ERr 3 L 3 'g 7E A a i Y a o ~ aaaaooa© A, P:sk to Exlrmne W,Idl„e �aa©aa©oo Total 108 42�Ja ff 2 10 36 39 251 At Risk to Veryaoaaavao Highwldfirc Total so 18 16 15 2 42 134 277 ©a©vooem NOTE -A portion of the Crow Tribe is located in Yellowstone County, although predominancy located in Big Hom County. Sauna HIFLD 2022. Mariana DES. N8I, MWRA Yellowstone County has many efforts in place to protect its residents from the threat of wildfire. The Yellowstone County Fire Protection Services and Rural Fire Council consist of both municipal and volunteer fire departments. Billings and Laurel have municipal fire departments, with seven fire stations in Billings, including Central Headquarters at Fire Station #1. The City of Laurel operates one fire station. Additionally, fire departments are present at key locations such as the Billings -Logan International Airport Phillips 66, Par Montana, and CHS refineries. In Yellowstone County, a volunteer fire protection system is established to combat wildfires. This system is divided into several fire districts, each having its awn volunteer fire department including Blue Creek VFD, Broadview VFD, Custer VFD, Fuego VFD, Haley Bench VFD, Lockwood VFD, Molt VFD, Shepherd VFD, and Worden VFD. The Rural Fire Council, comprising these volunteer fire departments, offers advice and information to the Yellowstone Board of County Commissioners conceming fire and rife safety services. The council fasters collaboration and communication among its members, enhancing operational efficienry and ensuring community fire protection. Mutual aid agreements have been signed within Yellowstone County and with adjacent counties, as well as state and federal fire control agencies. Montana's Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (MT DNRC) Forestry Division is responsible for forestry and fire management programs across the state. The Fire and Aviation Management Bureau coordinates resources and leadenhip to protect lives, property, and natural resources from wildland fires, working closely with local, tribal, state, and federal partners. Montana DNRC focuses on fire preparedness through fire prevention, training, equipment development and financial support programs. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Montana/Dakota District Office is involved in planning activities for public land within Yellowstone County, with an initial attack MOU for BLM or County fires - The National Fire Prevention Association's (NFPA) FreWise Communities Program promotes safety by engaging homeowners in wildfire risk mitigation. It's a key part of the Fire Adapted Communities approach and is co -sponsored by various federal agencies. The program educates people about living with wildfire and encourages community action to prevent losses and protect lives and property. K4.17 Ditch and Drain Failure Hazards Ditch and drain failure hazards in Yellowstone County, Montana, primarily pertain to the potential dangers associated with the extensiw network of ditches and canals in the region. These hazards are typically connected to irrigation canals, drainage, and stomlwater management systems and can pose risks to public safety and property- The irrigation facilities were constructed to deliver water to areas far removed from the original water intake. Yellowstone County is intersected by a total of 23 ditches, with 7 of these ditches situated within the boundaries of the City of Billings. Many of the ditches carry irrigation water for agriculture and private lawns and gardens, and parks and provide a valuable function to agricultural operations, residential and commercial outdoor watering, and groundwater recharge. Many of the ditches are open waterways with steep sides; however, there are several miles of culverts and pipes that carry ditch water beneath the City of Billings. The (BBWA) is the most prominent canal in Billings. It is a gravity -fed canal that is diverted from the Yellowstone River near Laurel. The canal consists of 63 miles of main canal and over 200 laterals, distribution canals, and two storage reservoirs. It runs 20 miles through the City of Billings, somewhat parallel to Poly Drive before disappearing through an 1,800- foot tunnel in the rimrocks and Alkali Creek then flows north through Billings Heights before discharging into Five Mile Creek Ninety(90) percent of the farms from the Heights to Shepherd depend on the BBWA for irrigation. The value of the craps along the canal is in the millions of dollars. The BBWA has 1,463 customers and the canal waters the greens of three golf courses and lawns at many adjoining residences. The County also contains several other ditches and canals in the Billings area, such as the Hi -Line Ditch, Big Ditch, and Cove Ditch in West Billings. Page K-42 ' 9- Y Page K�t4 Fanem Montav pegim Namrd ffCgation %an Mnex K YNlavntme County Faaem Montarw Regisn WZW Miigatian %an MnexK YNlswrtone [any Most of the ditches and drains are controlled and maintained through easements and prescriptive rights by private ditch companies, and the City of Billings and Yellowstone County do not have any ownership other than repair and replacement of street culvert crossings. Therefore, to address these ditch hazards and promote public safety, Yellowstone County would need regulations and procedures in place to manage ditches effectively. This could involve regular maintenance, inspections, and the enforcement of guidelines for construction and land use near ditches. According to the 2019 Yellowstone County HMP, there are approximately 112,093 acres in Yellowstone County (6.6 percent) located vrithin ditch and drain failure impact areas. Because ditch and drain failure can greatly impact residences, commercial and industrial buildings, and critical facilities, future residential development along the Yellowstone River Valley in these areas should be minimized to reduce property losses. As noted in Section K4.10, the County has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars in mitigation, repair, and response to landslide and rockfall events over the last few years. And an active landslide occurring on the BBWA ditch is one of the most eminent threats and contributing factors that may result in the breach of the BBWA ditch, given this hazard would cause major Flooding to downtown Billings. Residents and property owners in the County should be aware of the potential hazards associated with ditches, and they should take measures to ensure their safety, such as avoiding constructing structures in or near ditches, reporting blockages and erosion, and being prepared for potential flooding events. Also, local government and authorities typically work to mitigate these hazards and protect public safety, while also ensuring that the essential functions of the ditches, such as irrigation and drainage, are not compromised. I S Mitigation Capabilities Assessment As part of the regional plan development the Region and participating jurisdictions developed a mitigation capability assessment Capabilities are those plans, policies and procedures that are currently in place that contribute to reducing hazard losses. Combining the risk assessment with the mitigation capability assessment results in 'net vulnerability' to disasters and more accurately focuses the goals, objectives, and proposed actions of this plan. The CPT used a two-step approach to conduct this assessment First an inventory of common mitigation activities was made using a matrix. The purpose of this effort was to identify policies and programs that were either in place or could be undertaken, if appropriate. Second, the CPT conducted an inventory and review of existing policies, regulations, plans, projects, and programs to determine if they conuribute to reducing hazard related losses. K.5.1 Regulatory Mitigation Capabilities Z..inp Code or Ordinance Yes Yes Yes. Z020 Yes Camme Adiputien or Rt;f,s plan Yes .N,r,9 N/A N,1A Yes. Code cf Subdiviuon Ordinance Yes Yes Odinalxes Title No 16 Yes, ttirough Yes. through Zoning Zoning P gdations Regulalom, Open space/c.mervadon development development WA N/A program plannin% and the planning, and the Billings Parks and Billings P vks and Recreation Recreation Department Departreerel. Resource Management Plan No No No No ThrotHxmd PanofCounty Pan ofCouny Identification and Risk Assessment IRA Yes Part of County Plan Plan Plan other? - - - - Discussion on Existing Regulatory Mitigation Capabilities The CPT noted that in accordance with the City of Billings Site Development Ordinance, specific regulations mandate the implementation of mitigation measures concerning stormwater management along the Rimrodc geologic formation. These measures necessitate the on -site storage of stomrwater to minimize the discharge of water over the Rimrock formations. Subdivision regulations also require the evaluation of potential flood hazards, floodplains, landslides, steep slopes, starmwater management and high-water tables. This evaluation is conducted in collaboration with the City's Planning Department The City/County Planning Division is responsible for overseeing Subdivision Regulation within both the City of Billings and Yellowstone County. These regulations stipulate requirements for assessing flood hazards whenever certain predetermined thresholds or parameters are met Furthermore, the Subdivision Regulations prohibit the development of areas with slopes exceeding 25%, and such areas must be clearly indicated on plats. In addition, there are specific environmental assessment requirements, especially within the County which demand an in-depth analysis of natural hazards related to geology, soils, and slopes. Details on Flood Hazard Evaluation requirements can be located in Appendix K of the subdivision regulations. The CPT emphasized that the City of Billings is obligated to align its building codes with those adopted by the State of Montana. As of September 1, 202Z the City of Billings has officially adopted a set of codes, accessible at this link hthp ,//billin mto 1323/Adopted{odes. The responsibility for enforcing these building codes within the City Limits falls under the jurisdiction of the City Building Division. These codes encompass various hazard -specific considerations, including fire prevention requirements, as well as mandatory structural design criteria for wind and snow loads. It's important to note that the State of Montana operates on a 3-year code update cycle. Consequently, the City of Billings is anticipated to adopt the subsequent set of updated codes in either 2024 or 2025. The State Fire Marshal's Office oversees the adoption of the fire code, which is then enforced within the Page K-45 Page K-47 ry a'r- U.—Montana Regional Mitiga0on Ran Ae—KYelloxstaneewnty Table K-19lists planning and land management tools typically used by localjurisi ictions to implement hazard mitigation activities and indicates those that are in place in the Eastern Region and each participating jurisdiction. Table K-19 Yellowstone County and Jurisdictions Regulatory Mitigation Capabilities Plans & Regul,tions Building Codes yell—ne State City of Billing, Yes City of Laurel Yes Town of No Building Codes Year 2022 2022 2023 No BCEGS Rating - - - Yes Cmyof Billings Capital Improvements Yes. Yellowstone Capital N/A No Program (Clq-Plan County FY 2023 Improvement Plan FY20-F 24 Community Rating System ORS) Yes CRS 7 No No WA CommuniryWWBre Va. Version 21106 Part ofCeunry Plan Part olCounty Part of County Protection Plan CWP Plan Plan Yes. Current Comprehensive Master or planning of nnghb�d1-di, Yes. Community Yes. Community No General Plan Masttt Plain Masltt Plan tramm nation Ecorwmic Development Plan Yes Yes Yes No Elevation Certificates Y. WA N/A N/A Emergency Operations Plan EO Yes Part o/County Plan Part of County Plan Part of County Plan im enl Contra) No N/A N/A WA anagement Yg Yes Yes No PIn.—ceSwdy ce Study Yes N/A WA N/A agement Yes. Adopted 2008. Yes Adopted 2016. Yeses ted No Yes. HAZMAT, fic Ordnance Wildfire' Floodplairt Part of County Part of Couny Part of County oran(oodplain Sleep Communicable Plans. Plans. Plan. Slope. Wildfire) Disease Source Water Protection National Flood lnesrance Program NFlP Yes Yes Yes No Site Plan Review Requirements Y. N/A N/A N/A StIXmwater Program. Plans Yes, yg Yes Ycs -ordinance Fsnem Mamana s,im word Mitigation Pan Mr-K YNlo re, County city by the Fire Prevention Bureau In a distinct capacity, the City/County Planning Division does not manage building codes. However, the planning staff plays an integral role in the permitting process within the City Limits, conducting site reviews. In the zoned areas of Yellowstone County, the Division is responsible for administering County Zoning Regulations, which encompass site and structural requirements. The approval of new developments within these zoned areas necessitates a County Zoning Compliance Permit Montana state Im (Montana Code Annotated [MCA) Tide 76 Land Resources and Use, Chapter 5 Flood Plain and Floodway Management 1-4) contains land use regulations that require floodplain management regulations within sheetflood areas as determined by FEMA It is in the best interest of the political subdivision (e.g, incorporated cities or towns or any county) and the public to manage the regulation of flood -prone lands and waters in a manner consistent with prudent land and water use practices. This approach aims to prevent and alleviate threats posed by flooding to human life and health, while also reducing economic losses incurred by both individuals and the public. Discussion an NFIP Participation and Compliance Yellowstone County, along with the cities of Billings and Laurel, actively participate in the NFIP. This program necessitates thatjurisdictions implement floodplain development regulations. In return for the local adoption and enforcement of regulations which adhere to the NFIP's minimum criteria, FEMA offers the availability of Flood insurance coverage within Yellowstone County and the Cities of Billings and Laurel. Additionally, Yellowstone County began participation in the Community Rating System (CRS). in 2003. As of July 2024, the County is currently Class 7, which makes structures in the special flood hazard area (SFHA) eligible for a 15%discount on flood insurance, and those outside of the SFHA eligible for a 5% discount According to the 2022 Yellowstone County Floodplain Hazard Management Regulations, the County Floodplain Administrator is appointed and is the responsibility of the Office of the County Public Works Department Within the County Public Works Department the building official is appointed to serve as the floodplain administrator and shall administer and implement the provisions of the 2013 City of Billings Floodplain Hazard Management Regulations. According to the 2018 City of Laurel Floodplain Hazard Management Regulations, the City Floodplain Administrator is appointed and is the responsibility of the City Planner. The most recent flood insurance rate maps (FIRMS) were adopted in 2013 for the City of Billings, City of Laurel, and Yellowstone County. Eadsjurisdiction's floodplain regulations set forth baseline standards for development within the regulated flood hazard areas and significantly influence decisions related to land use. Everyjurisdiction requires a floodplain permit for development projects in a mapped floodplain. Artificial obstructions and alternations may be allowed by permit within the Foodway, provided they are designed and constructed to ensure that they do not adversely affect the flood hazard on other properties and are reasonably safe from flooding and ensure that the carrying capacity of the Foodway is not reduced. Yellowstone County typically issues an average of ten floodplain permits each year. Additionally, following a hazard event in each jurisdiction, it is the role of that floodplain administrator to notify structure owners about the potential necessity for a permit required for alterations or substantial improvements before beginning the repair or reconstruction of damaged structures. Property owners are informed that structures experiencing substantial damage or undergoing substantial improvements must go through the floodplain application and permit process. Additionally, these structures must be upgraded during the repair or reconstruction process to meet the minimum building standards outlined in the regulations. This approach ensures compliance with floodplain management measures, enhancing the overall safety and resilience of the affected structures. Eachjurisdiction s floodplain administrator is Page K-46 Page K-48 Easn-m Mona+a R1- 4aurd h4tigauon Pan honer K Yellovrstone Cwnry Eanem MontanaRyon iia r Mi't. Man Mier K Y.IlowS[ane County also responsible for educating the community about floodplain management and the venous ways property ownersand businesses can participate in the process by Learning about flcodplain regulations and building codes in rtcod prone areas, modelyalg or mtofining a isting baildui_1 and contrcl6rlg stormwater runoff The Tom of Broadview doe. not participate in the NAP as neither a FIRM nor a flood hazard mg ary map has been identified for the Tam, thus participation is optional. K5.2 Administrative and Technical Mitigation Capabilities Table K-20 identifies the County and participatingjuriti ictions personnel responsible for activities related to mitigation and loss prevention in Yellowstone County. Table K-20 Yellowstone County Jurisdictions Administrative/Technical Mitigation Capabilities Emergency Manager Yes Yes Yes Yes Floodplain Administrator/Position/Department Yes Yes Yes No Community Planning Planner/Engmeerit," Development) Yes Yes Yes No Planner/Engineer/Scientisl(Natual Hazards) yes Yes No Yes Engin er/Pmfeiswnal(Cosssvuction) Yes Yes Yes No Resiliency Planner Transportafion Planner Yes Yes Yet No Full-ime Building Official Yes yes Yes No GIS Specialist & Capab,hty Yes Yes Uses Cou Uses Count Grant Managet, Writer, or Specialist No No No No Housing Authority Yes Yes Yes Yes Warning Systems Yes Yes Yes Yes - Sirens No No No No - Reverse911 No No No No IPAWS/ Wireless Emergency Alerts(WEA) Yes Yes Yes Yes - Opt -In Notification(Codefted. EverBridge, etc) yes I Yes Yes Yes K5.3 Financial Capabilities Table K-21 identifies the County and participating jurisdictions financial tools or resources that the jurisdictions have access or are eligible to use and could potentially be used to help fund mitigation activities. Table K-22 Yellowstone County Hazard Mitigation Assistance Projects Hh1GP 421/199i Ins I.C.he-rt ri :[r.In;:IiCn iP..+.du Prje<G-rrl !: d /ello.sn,• HtaGp I1XI19:8 2.51.1.1tel—flu.�r.: Wiv.n: ru:Csn:-Riv]%.rrs T C4�-:] Yd,•9MV.'nr.� HMGP 1116/199'1 711:Water&Ssrolary S.rrer System PmtMt.e Men r'kse•i Ys:;a sw on• — hMGP W6r101 =J7.1: tvatN&a,niWySewrer S)•,tm D+Pslim h1easu% _ ^>d y@M.a:oce HMGP Z/20/2002 201.1:P.eloeat10n of Private Structures-Ri-,edne Closed yell— HMGP 3/132007 2A.I-list. cri of Pivate Stnrctues Rivenne Closed Ydlexstone HMGP 9/15/2009 .101.1: Water Sanitary Sewer System Protect. Measures Closed Yells — ow HMGP 2/9/2015 106.1. Other Non-C-1ruction(Regular Project Only? Closed Yellowstone HMGP 11/28/2016 201.1: Relocation of Private SWctures- Rivenne Closed Vellav;stone HMGP 12WM21 106.1: Other Non -Construction (Regular Project Only) Obligated Yellowstone&S2 other counties, HMGP 2/10/2022 1061: Other Non-Corntruction(RegufarProject ONy) Approves Yelloaatone&21 other counties - Source: FEMA Opmdala K5.4 Education and Outreach Capabilities Table K-23 identifies the education and outreach programs in place at the County and participating jurisdictions are or could be used to help promote mitigation activities. Table K-23 Yellowstone County Education and Outreach Capabilities Ongoing public education programs (fire safety• Yes. DES &City of Billings responsible water use. household prepared oess, etc) Fire Department yes Yes yes Local citizen groups that communicate hazard Yes. LEPC&Yellownone Y6 Yes Yes risks County CORD Rrevdse Or other fire mitigation Program Yes. Hazardous Fuels Program Yes Yes Yes National Weather Sella SiormReady Yes Yes Yes Yes Yellowstone s CPT notes a range of resources used for education and outreach -primarily wsming tools used to communicate emergencies to the community. Page K-49 Page K-51 Earem Montaru Regim Word Mitigation non mr. K Ydlowsrone Cwnw Table K-21 Yellowstone County Jurisdictions Financial Capabilities Abilityto fund Prjects through CapitalImprovements funds Yes Yes Yes Broadview Yes Ability to Incur debt through general obligation bonds Yes. Up to $2M w/o voter approval NO No No Ability to incur debt Wough private activities No No No No Ability to incur debt through special ens bonds Yes No No No Authority to levy taxes for a specific purpose with ester o al Yes yes yes yes Authoritytowtthhold spen?ng in hazed prone areas No No No No Community Development Block Grants Yes Yes Yes Yes FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance grants Yes Yes Yes Yes FEMA Public Assistance funds Yes Yes Ves Yes Stormwaler Service Fees Yes Yes Yes No System Development Fee No Yes Yes No Utility fees (water sew, gas elecuic etc) Yes Yes Ves No Other? No No No No FEMA and Other Grant Funding Leveraged for Hazard Mitigation Funding for the proposed mitigation projects may come from a variety of sources. Below is a list of funding possibilities. This list is not tied directly to each proposed project however, these programs could work for specific projects or multiple projects. • FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance Grants including. o Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIQ o Flood Mitigation Assistance Program (FMA). o Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP). • US Awry Corp of Engineers funding • USDA Environmental Quality Incentive Program • U5DA Conservation Reserve and Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program. • USDA Small Watersheds (NRCS). There are many more potential funding opportunities available to the municipalities and County. Funding research will be done during the scoping process for each project New funding mechanisms may be present that were not before. Yellowstone County and itsjurisdictions have participated in several of these hazard mitigation assistance projects in the past as summarized in Table K-22 below. Eanem M.— Region I/xnrd Mtlgalfon Ran Mnex K Ydbvrstone County K5.5 Non -Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Mitigation Partnerships Table K-24 shows the local chapters partnered with the County and participatingjurisdictions. Table K-24 Yellowstone County Non -Governmental Organizations (NGOs) W.-Ge—ment.1 Organizations NCC,) American Red Cross Yeltowstanecounty Yes City of Billings Yes City cif Laurel Yes Tom of Broiidview, Yes Chamberof Commerce Yes Y.(2) Yes Yes Community Organizations Lions. IGwanis. etc) Yes. Breakfast Exchange &O timin Yes yes Yes F 'ronmental Groups Yes Yes Yes Yes Homeowner Associations Yes yes Yes Yes Neighborhood Aswdadon Yes Billings Task Foces. Yes Yes Yes Satiation Army Yes No No Yes veterans Groups Yes Yes Yes Yes Other Yes. United Way - - - K5.6 Opportunities for Enhancement Based on the capabilities assessment Yellowstone County has the potential for expanding these hazard mitigation capabilities, but it is circumscribed primarily by budgetary constraints and the limitations of available staff resources. If grant funding for mitigation projects is not secured or if the County fails to allocate matching funds for these initiatives. their progression becomes unfeasible. Currently, the DES Office manages most of the grant applications• from the initial submission to project dosure. Given the constraints of a two-person,wo full-time equivalent (FTE) team working within standard 40-hour rkweeks, it becomes challenging to juggle these responsibilities alongside their daily duties and obligations. It would also be beneficial for the incorporated jurisdictions to provide more information on their websites about potential hazards, emergency preparedness, and response information -A webpage with consolidated information like evacuation routes, emergency alerts, and links to County, State, and Federal resources would be helpful for residents to learn more and access the information they if an incident occurs. With support from other County departments like emergency management the County grant writer should research potential funding new staff positions and opportunities for post -disaster support aimed at reaching vulnerable populations. Improved cross jurisdictional communication can also help identify areas for collaboration and support staffing and other capacity gaps. Other specific opportunities for improvement are listed below Yellowstone County. • Explore opportunities to improve CRS class rating, particularly for public outreach activities. • Explore additional partnerships with area agencies to develop hazard mitigation programs. • Consider employing a grant waiter to enhance access to funding opportunities. • Address ditch and drain failure in County growth policies, Subdivision Regulations, and Zoning Ordinances. Page K-50 Page K-S2 Fanem Monona Regian ktaaN Mitigation Fan Mnex K Ydbwstme Caunry • Eanem Montana Region W.N.Wgauon %an MnexKYe1l cane County City of Billings: • Consider d—Itsping an economic development plan to ensure future development aligns wth City coals and, to • Considerjc:ning FEMA CRS to lower the cost of flood insurance. • Conside• ,r, to est46hsh ongoing public cutrrach on hazard awarenass and preparedness. Cityof laurel: • Considerjcining FEMA CBS to Inver the cost of flood insurance and better protect residents and structures located in the floodplain. Town of Broadview: • Continue to collaborate with Yellowstone County and the City of& flings and City of Laurel on emergency preparedness and hazard mitigation activities. • Consider working with the City of Billings Planning Department to adopt and enforce Building Codes that apply to the Tom of Broadview. IC6 Mitigation Strategy This section describes the mitigation strategy and mitigation action plan for Yellowstone County. See Chapter 5 of the base plan for more details on the process used to develop the mitigation strategy. K.6.1 Goals During the creation of the 2073 Regional Plan, the counties in the Eastern Montana Region derided to collaborate and develop a set of new, uniform goals, which were adopted by all counties in the Region and move away from hazard -specific goals. The adopted goals are as follows: Goal 1: Reduce impacts to people, property, the environment and the economy from hazards by implementing whole -community, risk reduction and resilience strategies. Goal 2: Protect community lifelines and critical infrastructure to ensure the continuity of essential services during and after a disaster. Goal 3: Support education and outreach to the public through improved communications and capacity building that enhances resilience among underserved communities. Goal 4: Promote regional cooperation and leverage partnerships with the private sector, non-profit organizations. and other key stakeholder groups in mitigation solutions. Goal 5: Sustain and enhance jurisdictional capabilities and resources to enact and implement mitigation activities. Goal 6: Integrate hazard mitigation into other plans, processes, and regulations. Goal 7: Ensure local mitigation programs address underrepresented groups and protect socially vulnerable populations. Goal 8: Incorporate the potential impacts of climate change into all mitigation activities when possible. The Yellowstone County Planning Team also developed the following County -specific objectives to supplement the region -wide goals: The 2019 Yellowstone County Hazard Mitigation Plan outlined the following goals: • Goal l: Reduce impacts from severe weather and drought • Goal 2 Reduce impacts from wildfire. • Goal 3: Reduce impacts from ditch and drain failure. Re-establish Ciry-County Drain Outtalk at 3.12 tYgadsirgton 5tree-twi'h an admUible vrcif and Ditch &Drain 3Ilings 2019 4.500 feet of 4&inch diameter pipe washed cut Failure in the 2018 since runoff. Evalua[s: mainr!n and unprove rip -rap slang Ydinwstcre, River from Lau.,el to Hansel, near Ditch&Drain Yys;yr.;one. 3.1A duds head 1.to tfailuresthatm 9a '��"' aY Failure .di 2019 caus rxa t,.lied Bovislnloditi: in1—Ig tare) floadnzk Install rip rap along Yellcwame River for 3AS approcimately 22O0 feel at Huntley Project to Ditch &Drain Yellowstone 2019 protect diversion dam and drainage ditch and Failure aintaininitiation. Assess legal staves of edsdrig irrigation ditches 3.21 and drains ter to determine Municipal legal Ditch&Drain &IGn9s 2021 authority for operations and maintenance Failure responsibilities. 3.3.1 Obtain easements to access ditchesanddrains for rational and maintenance Ditch &Drain Failure Billings 2019 A33 Develop doud-based backup system fore'ry CyberSeariy Yellowstone. Billings.& 2023 Cwntynetwohsystemz Laurel Consider certifying dikes—d water and Billings& 6.42 wastewater treatment plants to ensure adequate roeeaion Flooding Lapel ZDZ3 643 Update Oaod protection meawres at Riverside Park in Lwrel to evens flood Fang Laurel 20Z2 7.32 Expand fist serve for Health Alen Network Communicable Disease All Jurisdictions 2019-2020 9.1.1 Implement mass cot wa"capabili" chow-1Ydbwstone Can . AB Hazards AllluristlKtions 2D19 ENonce rural communication by coordinating 9.12 and cooperating on getting First Net in place in AIIHazards All Jurisdictions 2019 Yellowstone County to improve first responder corrin-itations. K6.3 NFIP Continued Compliance Compliance Wth the NFIP is also important to reducing losses to future development is continued. The County, the City of Billings, and the City of Laurel will continue to make every effort to remain in good standing with the program. This includes continuing to comply with the NFIP regarding adopting floodplain maps and implementing, maintaining, and updating floodplain ordinances. See Section 5A.2 in the base plan for more discussion on NFIP compliance. K6.4 Mitigation Action Plan As a part of the 2023 regional planning process, the CPT developed an updated list of hazard mitigation actions or projects specific to Yellowstone County and its jurisdictions. The process used to identify, develop, and prioritize these actions is described in Chapter 5 of the base plan. Yellowstone County has 64 continuing or in progress mitigation actions carried over from the previous plan and has added an additional 5 new actions. Page K-53 - Page K-55 - r PW V Eastem Montana Region lamed Mitigation %an Mrrex IC YHlowstone Cwnry • Goal civil 4: Reduce impacts from terrorism, violence, unrest and cyber security. • Goal 5: Reduce impacts from transportation accidents and hazardous materials incidents. • Goal 6: Reduce impacts from flooding and dam failure. • Goal 7: Reduce impacts from communicable disease. • Goal 8: Reduce impacts from landslides and rock falls. • Goal 9: Reduce impacts associated with all hazards. K6.2 Progress on Previous Actions During the 2023 planning process, the Yellowstone CPT reviewed all the mitigation actions from the 2019 plan. As shown in Table K-25, of 87 actions in the previous plan, 14 have been completed, and 9 have been deleted. Table K-25 Completed and Deleted Actions DELETED ACTIONS Support drought programs implemented Touv Too ague 1.24 through the Conservation District,NWS,FSA, Drought NRCS. DNRC. and MSU Extendon Yellowstone hard to meawre Conduct feasibiliity'" to identify best lack of plans/ 2.1A method to dispose of fuel mitigated material so' Wddfirc yell —tone projects and Loss A of it doesn't have to travel long dhnnces to a landfill of Noting. 3.24 Conductstudy on how to improve draim and Ditch & Drain Billings Too vague/ hart to measure& oudet structures to mitigate flood risk Failure too large to fund. Improve public messaging when episodes of HAZMAT Yellowstone, Belli handle 52i refinery Haring occur. Incidents Billings, rel In-house 9.1.6 Recmiland train emergency response All Hazards All Jurisdictions Too vague. 9.31 Develop plan forshon•tems water sappyin AN Hazards Billingsavailable. Not fe sibW no Billi s Emourage utility companies to ensure right of Severe 13.1 way around pourer lines arefree of trees or limbs that could cause dam e Weather All Junsdictions 2019 1A2 Promotetheuseof hurncanedipsforbuikfings sW—.ble to h' hwudz severe Weather Al Jurisdictions 2021 Develop database of hazardous fuel Yellowstone & 212 menls and landow+ser fuel reductions o x[s tov rtNWre rants Wildfire Billings 2023 Develop database of water supplies access Yellowstone & 752 prints, fire breaks, and outer relevant criteria N enhance fire rue. Wildfire Broadview 2023 Remove unstable rocks above North 10 street Ditch&Drain 3.1.1 that could fall and block BBWA dtch at tunnel entrap e Failure Billings 2019 Eanem Montana Regim FtanN Mitgadon flan Mnex IC YAlowstone County Table K-26lists the 2023 Mitigation Action Plan for Yellowstone County and its participxtingjuriscrctions. The CPT identified and prioritized the following mitigation actions based on the risk assessment and goals, and objectives. It is grouped by hazard(s) mitigated. Background information as well as information on how the action vnll be implemented and administered, such as ideas for implementation, responsible office, partners, potential funding, estimated cost and timeline also are described Per the DMA requirement actions have been identified that address reducing losses to existing development as well as future development The Cost Estimate column describes the estimated project costs using the following categories: Uttle to no cost • -Low. Less than $10,000 • Moderate: S10,000-$100,000 • High: S100,000-$1,000,000 • Very High: More than f 1.000,000 The Timeline column describes the estimated time of completion for earls project using the following categories: ShortTerm:1-2 years • Medium Term: 3-5 years • Long Term: 5• years • Ongoing: action is implemented every year _ .... The Status/Implementation Notes column describes the progress. made on the actions so farming the following categories: • Not Started: project is carried over from the previous Yellowstone County Plan; little to no work has been completed. • In Progress: project is carried over from the previous Yellowstone County Plan; work has begun on the project and is proceeding. • Annual: project is carried over from the previous Yellovrstone County Plan and is implemented every year on an ongoing basis. • New in 2023: The action is new to this plan update; little to no work has been completed. Table K-26 below lists the mitigation actions for each participating jurisdiction in Yellowstone County. All jurisdictions have developed mitigation actions for each identified hazard in the HMP. Page K-54 Page K-56 e- a Baas w.�`d�xd ' r.... "�„' c^"ai�"'4 �.�.'�'p6:w:n. ,,,d,, wnam •. 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M.A nb.ve• e�P..eitwo4 yy� •�°a oa'Y xH, t� m�mG/brb•wb9 emq/awadnma•N � (nq Rs gwnalrafn..d Gcruwtl ut RrnRin �t w+� m :���`" = vcw+.tea wd� �nncya�i..w w.aesca✓ c.•.,wN ww. �'au y°.« ` c °m'.."�� a ear • �w•y ,wr<....w w..w�•au,.o..u,a,e. m°"w-ra...wua....e•:.,K .o,..., mamM-ac•„a.. a.ur w.,...ww,..w.,a,....av,....,, •..e�.o... ca-w+. k•w..r�•, u: wew,...aa�. vs+cr us...rcawao.+.... .-.._........ __... .r _.._ _._ _..r _. _......�_._._...___ _.�._.._.. _...___......._�'__..� _._.. ------- mitigation plan into their respective planning mechanisms. The County Public Works Department recently updated the Flood Emergency Response Plan to address water and sewer system operations more effectively. The department also oversees the stormwater management program, guided by the Stommvater Management Manual, which is mandated for subdivision infrastructure and site development This manual provides a framework to mitigate stomnvater runoff from new development and redevelopment aligning with the broader goals of the mitigation plan. The growth policies for Billings and Yellowstone County reflect the unique needs and priorities of each area. These policies evaluate various elements, such as housing the economy, community facilities, local services, and natural resources. Despite their differences, these growth policies are designed to be complementary and can function synergistically with other adopted community plans. Although they are not regulatory and do not exclusively dictate planning, their integration with the mitigation plan enhances their effectiveness and ensures that risk management and mitigation objectives are woven into the fabric of local development strategies. When the opportunity arises, each jurisdiction will follow the process outlined in Section 6.3.3 of the Eastern Region Base Plan to integrate information from the HMP into planning mechanisms. The process for incorporation or the Regional HMP into other planning mechanisms by each jud sdictim an be as simple as cross-referencing the Hazard Mitigation Plan where applicable w including data, goals, or actions from the HMP in these mechanisms. Mitigation projects associated with wIdfire can be integrate into the future version of the County's community wildfire protection plan. The Cities of Billings and Laurel and Town of Broadwater each utilize growth or zoning policies to guide development Findings from the hazard profiles an be incorporated into future revisions of these policies to ensure limited or appropriate growth in high -hazard areas. The CPT will collaborate with the staff responsible for these plans or programs. Additional opportunities for integration for eachjunsdicVon are listed below. Yellowstone County. • Yellowstone County Growth Policy, 2008 • Yellowstone County Floodplain Regulations, 2017 Yellowstone County Community Wildfire Protection Plan, 2006 • Yellowstone County Dept of Emergency & General Services, Capabilities Assessment and Strategic Improvement Plan, FY2023-2028 • Yellowstone County Emergency Operations Man, 2019 • Yellowstone County Emergency Resource Information. 2016 • Highland Neighborhood Lockwood Community Plan, 2006 • Lwkwood Growth Policy, 2016 North Elevation Neighborhood Plan, 1994 • North Park Neighborhood Plan, 2008 • Northwest Shiloh Neighborhood Plan, 2005 • Shepherd CommunityAction Plan • South Billings Master Plan, 2012 • Southside Neighborhood Plan, 2008 • West Billings Plan, 2001 • City of Billings Strategic, 2014 • City of Billings Capital Improvement Plan, FY 2020 to FY 2024 Billings Urban Area Transportation Improvement Program, 2015-2019 • Billings water/Wastewater Master Plan, 2006 • Billings Long -Range Transportation Plan, 2014 City of Laurel: City of Laurel Growth Management Plan, 2013 Town of Broadview: Town of Broadview Zoning Regulations The CPT noted that creating a regional hazard mitigation plan will offer insights into the hazards and challenges faced by surrounding counties, aiding in the revision of current plans and the development of future exercises and drills. It will also enhance understanding of how hazards in neighboring counties can impact each jurisdiction, allaying for more effective and efficient planning and response. K7.2 Monitoring, Evaluation and Updating the Plan Yellowstone County will follow the procedures to review and update this plan in accordance with Eastern Montana Region as outlined in Chapter 6 of the Regional Plan. The County and municipalities realize that it is important to review and update this plan regularly and update it on a five-year cycle. The Yellowstone CountyAnnex to the EasternMontana Region HMP will be evaluated on a regular basis to determine the effectiveness of programs, and to reflect changes in land development or programs that may affect mitigation priorities. K7.3 Continued Public Involvement Yell —tone County, along with Billings, Laurel, and Broadview, is committed to involving the public in the review and updates of the M1HMP. The CPT and DES office will review and update the plan annually or as needed. Public feedback will be encouraged, with copies of the plan available at the Yellowstone County DES office, Clerk and Recorders office, and Billings Public Library. The Plan and proposed changes will also be posted on the Yellowstone Countywebsite, which will provide contact information for submitting Page K-75 �MO� Page K-74 Page K-76 sm t j