Posts

Ice Jam along Delaware River raises major flood concerns

Observations from this afternoon confirmed a major ice jam along the Delaware River near Trenton, and concern is rising for flooding potential along and near the river and its banks as the ice melts. Water levels have risen over 7 feet since last night. Latest reports suggest initial flooding occurred this afternoon near Market Street and Route 29. The National Weather Service has issued Flash Flood Warnings along the Delaware River from Trenton southward to Philadelphia for the potential of river flooding. The warnings continue through the morning hours on Thursday January 9th.

An ice jam occurs when pieces of floating ice, carried with the stream’s current, accumulate at an obstruction to the streams flow. The ice cams can develop near river bends, banks, mouths, or even points where the slope of the river decreases. The water held back can rise rapidly and cause significant flooding. Moreoever, if the obstruction breaks suddenly, flash flooding can rapidly occur downstream. This is the concern of forecasters this evening.

Ice jam on the Delaware River near Trenton as photographed on January 8, 2014.

Ice jam on the Delaware River near Trenton as photographed on January 8, 2014.

Read more