An ice jam on the Muskegon River is threatening to flood an area just south east of Big Rapids, Mecosta County, Michigan. Should the ice jam remain for any length of time, it could also mean flooding for areas further north, according to NOAA.
The ice jam formed in a bend in the river thought to be prone to ice jams, in an area near 12 mile and 183rd Avenue. Some flood water was approaching areas around Riverside Drive, although it is understood that the flooding isn’t severe and as yet, hasn’t reached any buildings or streets. However, worse could come should more ice form on the river, which also poses a threat for areas north of Big Rapids as water backs up against the ice jam. Forecasters say they expect the situation to remain relatively unchanged through the weekend. Flood warnings have been issued for Mecosta County which will remain in place throughout Saturday 30 November.
A similar ice jam in the are caused severe flooding in January 2013, where around 30 families had to leave their homes and around $3 million of damage was done to property in the area. An ice jam this early in winter is thought to be quite unusual for the area.
Map:
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Sources: NOAA (pdf); M Live
