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Flood watch underway in St. Lawrence County as rain and warm temperatures continue

Posted 2/20/18

By CRAIG FREILICH The heavy rain and temperatures well above normal have prompted the National Weather Service to issue flood watches for St. Lawrence County and the North Country. “We’re keeping …

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Flood watch underway in St. Lawrence County as rain and warm temperatures continue

Posted

By CRAIG FREILICH

The heavy rain and temperatures well above normal have prompted the National Weather Service to issue flood watches for St. Lawrence County and the North Country.

“We’re keeping an eye on all rivers, creeks and conduits but as of now there are no reports of flooding,” said James Chestnut, St. Lawrence County Emergency Services supervisor of dispatch operations.

No real trouble spots have shown themselves yet, but the high temperatures will increase snowmelt and the rain will add to the flow in the Raquette, Grasse, St. Regis and Oswegatchie rivers and their tributaries, raising the potential for flooding and ice jams, Chestnut said.

Local authorities in the towns and villages will be the first to make note of any dangerous rising water, Chestnut said, and “we’re staying in contact with the county highway department” for reports of flooded roadways.

Speaking of the topography and watercourses here, Chestnut said “the county generally handles water well. We’ll probably see some flooded fields, and I’m sure you’ll see lots of puddles, but the county has been replacing some smaller culverts” in an effort to improve drainage. Some flooded basements are likely, he said.

“We’re keeping an eye on the (Doppler) radar. A lot depends on if the big green blobs hit us or not,” and how long they linger, Chestnut said.

The flood watch remains in effect until 7 p.m. Wednesday.