Ice Jam Causes Flash Flooding in Clinton County, New York

On Tuesday morning, residents in parts of Clinton County, New York, were ordered to evacuate due to an ice jam on the Saranac River, which caused water levels to rise rapidly. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Burlington, Vermont, issued a Flash Flood Warning for east-central Clinton County, effective until 1 p.m. ET. Emergency crews reported that water levels began to rise around 7:05 a.m., prompting precautionary evacuations in Morrisonville and surrounding communities.

Newsweek

Ice jams occur when large chunks of river ice accumulate in narrow sections of waterways, creating temporary blockages that can lead to rapid water level increases upstream. This phenomenon can happen without any rainfall, and when the jam releases, it can send a surge of water downstream, exacerbating flooding risks. The NWS highlighted the potential for life-threatening flash flooding due to the ice jam at Morrisonville, which was affecting nearby areas including Plattsburgh and Schuyler Falls.

Newsweek

Local emergency officials reported that water had surrounded at least two homes on Ladue Street and River Street in Morrisonville, although flooding had not yet entered any structures. The NWS warned that conditions remained volatile, with additional ice jams threatening low-lying areas, particularly on Kent Falls Road. Residents and businesses in Plattsburgh were advised to prepare for potential evacuations should the ice dam break.

Newsweek

The ice jam situation is not isolated to Clinton County; multiple communities across northern New York and Vermont are experiencing similar issues. Unseasonably warm temperatures have accelerated the breakup of river ice, leading to increased flooding risks. Meteorologists have warned that these ice-related flooding problems could persist into mid-week as temperatures fluctuate and a storm system approaches.

Newsweek

The NWS has urged residents across the affected regions to remain vigilant and avoid flooded roadways, emphasizing the safety mantra: “Turn around, don’t drown.” Emergency responders are actively monitoring the Saranac River and surrounding waterways for further developments throughout the day.

Newsweek

While local authorities have taken precautionary measures, some residents have expressed concerns about the adequacy of the response and the timeliness of evacuation orders. The rapid onset of flooding has left some feeling unprepared for the sudden threat.

Newsweek

As of early Tuesday morning, reports indicated that flooding had not yet entered homes, but conditions were changing rapidly. There is a lack of detailed information regarding the extent of the ice jam's impact on other communities and the potential for further evacuations.

Newsweek

“Turn around, don’t drown.” — National Weather Service

Newsweek