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HELENA- State officials are cautioning that the first major ice jam of 2012 serves as a reminder that damaging floods, even in the middle of winter, remain a danger.

"We're in the early stage of ice jam season," said Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation Director Mary Sexton. "More than 80% of ice jams and associated flooding take place between January and March. About 50% of all reported ice jams in Montana occur in March, followed by February with 21% and January with 11%. So the most active time is still ahead."

Broadwater County officials responded to flooding caused by an ice jam on the Missouri River near Townsend last week and roads were closed while two popular campgrounds also flooded. Sexton pointed out in a news release that at least one residence had floodwater in its basement, while another homeowner was advised to construct a sandbag dike around his home.

Montana has the highest number of reported ice jams in the lower 48 states, according to National Weather Service statistics. The most ice jams ever recorded in a single season was 75 in 1996 while last year saw 23 ice jams.

"We've had quite a lot of variability with our temperatures this winter - warm spells interspersed with cold. That actually has been a good thing as far as mitigating ice buildup," Sexton said. "But as we've just seen in Townsend, when it happens, it happens quickly. Residents need to be prepared."

Sexton encouraged residents in flood-prone areas to consider purchasing flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program. More information on the National Flood Insurance Program and flood preparation can be found by clicking here.