EMA monitoring ice levels in the Muskingum River

ZANESVILLE, Ohio- With temperatures continuing to fall, the county is keeping eyes on the Muskingum River.

Ice is beginning to form on the river which could potentially cause a problem. Muskingum County Emergency Management Director, Jeff Jadwin, said his office along with the Ohio Department of Transportation and the Department of Natural Resources are monitoring the development of the ice.

“We’ve been out checking the river this morning. We’re getting a few ice jams that are not anything particular to worry about at this point. From Terrace Shores to Interstate 70, we’ve got some ice jamming. And then from Philo Bridge to what we call the narrows we’ve got another ice jam. And then we’ve got one right in the Gage Point area. Nothing that’s serious.”

Jadwin said at this time there is no need for concern at this point because the water level is still low.

“We would become concerned when it starts getting several feet thick or if we see the water start to backup behind the ice jam. We have the U.S. Coast Guard has several gauges along Muskingum River where we can watch them daily to see what the water level is. But everything is 6 to 8 feet below flood stage right now. So that’s no concern right at this point.”

He said citizens should stay aware and alert his office of any concerns, but the focus for now should be on staying warm and safe.

“The people that live along the river, if they see that it changes rapidly they can call our office or call the Sheriff’s office and let us know so that we can double check on things,” said Jadwin. “With this cold weather they need to be concerned about being warm, checking on their neighbors, checking on their pets. You know, that kind of concern right now.”

The EMA will continue to monitor the ice levels daily and will take action if there becomes a concern.