Maine’s Frozen Rivers Are Hiding a Flooding Time Bomb

Maine’s rivers are holding a bit of a secret just under their frozen surface and it’s that the ice jams could unleash sudden floods.

I am sure you've noticed the ice. It's everywhere and it's slippery. Recently I had to perform a very flexible Cirque de Soleil move just to avoid the ice to make it into my car.

I knew I was flexible but didn't realize I could still do splits. Spoiler alert, I still can't.

Not many of us are aware of this and while the risk of spring flooding may be low this yea, according to the Kennebec Journal, the ice experts warn that thick river ice raises the possibility of rapid flooding.

This is especially the case for places like the Kennebec River and the flooding could again affect Augusta, Hallowell, and Gardiner.

As per the article, Maine River Flow Advisory Commission says that February’s deep freeze could possibly lead to ice buildup.

Here’s what you need to know about ice jams in Maine

According to to the article, water can rise in just minutes which leads the trapping of cars and flooding homes.

Since we didn't have a huge thaw this January, the ice is in the perfect condition to break apart randomly, block river flow, and send out surges.

We're pretty much one big rain storm away from a quiet river become a flood monster, according to the article.

Take a look at the damage of the 2023 flood damage in Central Maine here: PHOTOS: Central Maine Wakes Up to Millions of Dollars in Damages

Flood risks are real and a big deal. Ice jams create fast water surges, even in areas that aren’t designated as flood zones.

As per the article, Sue Baker, the State Coordinator of the Floodplain Management Program said recently,

“Even if you are not in a high-risk flood zone, heavy rainfall events can still cause flooding in unexpected areas,”

How to stay safe from ice jams

Always look out for the weather alerts and make sure you are up to date with the information they are giving about potential flooding.

Head over to Floodsmart to learn more about if your house is in fact in a flood zone.

Always have a evacuation plan planned for you and your family just in case. You may also want to think about flood insurance because you truly never know if you could be vulnerable to flood devastation.