February 5, 2010

Gov. Dave Heineman has declared a state of emergency due to the potential for ice jam-related flooding along the lower Platte River and its tributaries.

The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) will work with state and federal partners to address excessive ice on the Platte River. An emergency declaration allows state personnel and resources to help with preventative measures.

“Ice jams have been a problem on the Platte River in the past,” Gov. Heineman said. “We are especially concerned about the potential for ice jam flooding this year because of below normal temperatures and above average precipitation several areas of the state have received. The emergency declaration helps us be pro-active by working with local and regional authorities now.”

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reports that intense winter weather including heavy snow, ice and cold, freezing rain have increased the risk for ice jams and flooding along the Platte, Elkhorn and Loup Rivers.

The corps has recommended ice dusting at up to nine sites along the Platte River from Sarpy County to North Bend. The greatest risk is the area where the Platte and Elkhorn rivers meet in western Sarpy County. Ice dusting is expected to begin the week of Feb. 15.

Ice dusting involves spreading ash to help ensure a controlled breakup of ice jams. Rapid thaws typically result in large chunks of ice breaking off and jamming along the river. Melted snow builds up behind the ice dams and eventually spills over river banks.

NEMA officials ask residents along the Loup, Elkhorn and Platte rivers who have been previously affected by spring flooding to be aware of river conditions and alert to the potential for evacuations if it becomes necessary.