Residents Reminded to Report Roadway Issues During Anticipated Storm

ADA COUNTY — The National Weather Service is predicting a thunderstorm with the potential for strong winds this evening. The Ada County Highway District has crew members on-call to respond to weather-related roadway issues and to assist other agencies as needed.

Because this weather event is anticipated to begin after normal business hours, members of the public should report urgent issues to the Ada County Sherriff's Office through the non-emergency dispatch line at (208)377-6790. Urgent, weather-related issues may include heavy localized flooding, non-functioning traffic signals, downed trees and branches, as well as damaged or downed signs. Residents should report these issues to non-emergency dispatch as quickly as possible. Dispatchers will communicate with ACHD’s on-call staff members to respond.

The anticipated weather may cause power outages in the area, which can impact traffic signals. Commuters who come across a non-functioning traffic signal should treat the intersection as an all-way stop. All vehicles should come to a complete stop at the intersection, and the first vehicle to arrive at the intersection has the right of way. If multiple vehicles arrive at the same time, drivers should yield to the vehicle on their right. Drivers should proceed through intersections with caution, and remember to watch for pedestrians and bicyclists. When safe to do so, commuters should report non-functioning traffic signals to Ada County non-emergency dispatch.

Emergencies, such as fires, vehicle crashes, and injuries should always be reported using 911.

Before the predicted storm arrives, residents are also reminded to make sure their nearest storm drain is clear. A storm drain map is available on ACHD’s website. If debris is covering the drain, residents can use a rake to clear it. Clear storm drains allow water to easily run down the drain, preventing localized flooding during a storm.

Lastly, ACHD asks members of the public to be considerate of crews as they work to manage reported issues. Please give crews from ACHD and other local agencies plenty of room to work, and remember to slow down and be respectful.

###