High risk of flooding in parts of the Blue Mountains due to ice buildup

Frazil ice along a river. (FILE)

The Town of The Blue Mountains is warning residents of a high chance of flooding in parts of Clarksburg as frazil ice continues to build up in the Beaver River.

“Due to extreme cold temperatures over the past week, frazil ice has formed in the Beaver River, which has restricted flow, causing water levels to rise significantly,” states town officials in a formal notice.

Who’s affected?

Properties north of Clark Street, between Margaret Street and Jubilee Drive, are currently at the highest risk. Officials warn that additional areas, like downtown Clarksburg, could be affected if water levels continue to rise.

“The public is advised to avoid the impacted area as flooding conditions could pose a risk to personal safety,” says the town. “High flows, unsafe banks, or other factors could be dangerous for residents and pets. Stay back from riverbanks and away from fast moving water.”

The notice states that the town’s emergency control group is actively monitoring the situation. Crews and contractors began removing frazil ice on last Thursday using a long-reach excavator.

What is frazil?

“Frazil ice is made up of tiny, slushy ice crystals that form in fast-moving, super-cooled water during very cold weather,” says officials.

It is not like solid surface ice, as frazil ice forms within the water and stays suspended as it flows downstream. According to the press release, crystals can clump together as it travels and attach to existing ice, riverbanks and rocks.

Residents are asked to report any flooding by calling 519-599-3131.