Free sandbags in Bannock County, ID
Where to get sandbags, how to get official alerts, and how to check your own address before the next storm.
Where to get free sandbags in Bannock County, ID
In February 2025 (and again in March 2024), Bannock County Emergency Management and partners gave out free empty sandbags. Pick up bags during business hours at the Bannock County Road & Bridge Office, 5500 S. Fifth Avenue, Pocatello, the Fort Hall Mine Landfill Office, 1500 N Fort Hall Mine Road, or city offices in Inkom, McCammon, Lava Hot Springs, Downey and Arimo; fill them free at county yards at any time. Offered each spring; check bannockcounty.gov/oem.
- Bannock County: sandbags (Feb 2025)bannockcounty.gov
- Bannock County: sandbags (Mar 2024)bannockcounty.gov
Checked against official sources on October 24, 2026.
Free storm alerts for Bannock County
When the National Weather Service issues a flood, fire, wind or hurricane warning for Bannock County, we email you right away with what to do. We also give you a heads-up a day ahead when NOAA forecasts severe storms or flash-flooding rain.
Want alerts for your exact street instead? Check your address and sign up there.
Is your home in a flood or fire zone?
Type your address and see your flood, wildfire, earthquake and other hazard risks on one map, free. No sign-up needed.
Get official emergency alerts
Bannock County's official alert system is Bannock County Sheriff's Office Alerts. It's free and sends warnings to your phone when a storm, fire or evacuation affects your area.
Before the storm: a quick checklist
- Pick up sandbags early. Supplies run out once a storm is in the forecast.
- Fill bags about halfway and lay them flat, overlapping like bricks, at doorways and the garage door.
- Clear gutters, downspouts and the storm drain in front of your house.
- Move valuables, papers and electronics off the floor.
- Take photos or a video of your rooms and belongings for insurance.
- Never walk or drive through floodwater. Turn around, don't drown.
Questions people ask
Where can I get free sandbags in Bannock County, ID?
In February 2025 (and again in March 2024), Bannock County Emergency Management and partners gave out free empty sandbags. Pick up bags during business hours at the Bannock County Road & Bridge Office, 5500 S. Fifth Avenue, Pocatello, the Fort Hall Mine Landfill Office, 1500 N Fort Hall Mine Road, or city offices in Inkom, McCammon, Lava Hot Springs, Downey and Arimo; fill them free at county yards at any time. Offered each spring; check bannockcounty.gov/oem.
How do I get emergency alerts in Bannock County, ID?
Sign up for Bannock County Sheriff's Office Alerts, which is free, and turn on Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone.
How do I know if my home is in a flood zone in Bannock County, ID?
Enter your address at mystormplan.com/check to see your FEMA flood zone and other hazards for your exact property, free.
How many sandbags do I need?
A common rule of thumb is about 100 bags to build a wall 1 foot high and 20 feet long. Most homes use sandbags to steer water away from doorways and garage doors. Fill bags only about halfway so they lie flat and tight.