Even More Snow in Idaho

Above freezing temperatures and rain have melted some of the snow but continued winter weather has been bringing more to replace it. The depth of snow on the ground is currently 14 inches and the standing water equivalent is 3 inches. Right after Christmas we had 20 inches on the ground, but the equivalent of only 2 inches of water. So, while there appears to be less, there is actually more. The City Building Official is warning by (regular press releases) that this may be of particular concern for structures with flat roofs or those with minimal pitch, and for structures not built to current building codes. Building owners and managers are encouraged to keep roof drains clear (to avoid saturated snow) and where it can be done safely, remove excess drifting snow and ice damming where melt from warmer sections of the roof freezes over eaves.

Freezing rain and new snow are starting to take their toll on trees and shrubs in the area. This morning branches were drooping to the ground or on parked cars and in some cases breaking, blocking sidewalks and some City streets.

The snow when it first fell basically followed the `old rule of thumb: one inch of water equals ten inches of snow'. But, as things have started to melt, and there has been rain and wind, the snow has become denser, much denser. At first the trees were covered with snow and were truly beautiful. Now they are breaking.

In a `normal' year it is the wish of Moscow residents to have a `White Christmas' as it is normally far from guaranteed. This year, however (and like last), we have had a white Christmas Eve, a white Christmas, a white New Years Eve, and a white New Years Day. It is beautiful to be sure, but how long will all this white continue?!

Sources:

"For Immediate Release: Snow Build Up on Buildings and Structures," Adam Kampenhout, Building Inspector, City of Moscow Community Development Building Division, 221 E. 2^nd Street, Moscow, Idaho 83843.

City of Moscow Press Release, 221 E. 2^nd Street, Moscow, Idaho 83843.