LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU)— These frigid temperatures are causing ice to build up in our rivers.
Local agencies are keeping a close eye on conditions, while people living along the Susquehanna are trying to stay one step ahead of potential ice jams forming.
Sections of the Susquehanna River are already filling up with ice jams.
Downtown on Ice boosting economy
A Shickshinny couple, whose backyard is up against the river bank, know what could be headed their way because they've been there before.
The Susquehanna River Friday, as far as you can see, it's covered with ice.
"We get a lot of it," said Beverly Moore, Mayor, Shickshinny.
Shickshinny Mayor, Beverly Moore, says the section right behind her home on North Canal Street is always an area that gets hit hard and piles up fast with ice.
"The ice was like really high up here, very high up," added Moore.
She's recalling the winter of 1993, the last time her backyard filled with ice jams.
She and her husband aren't too concerned this time around, but they'll be keeping a close eye up river in Wilkes-Barre, Wyoming, and Exeter.
The next few days will be crucial with a cold blast beginning Monday.
In fact, Luzerne County Emergency Management's David Elmore says the wicked weather coming our way creates the right conditions for the ice to build.
"Colder temperatures causing thicker ice in a slow moving river will cause some sort of ice jam," explained David Elmore, Deputy Coordinator, Luzerne County Emergency Management Agency.
His crew will be in contact with other EMA municipalities as they monitor conditions all throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania.
They are also in touch with the national weather service to stay updated on the forecast.
"It can happen anywhere at anytime during cold weather," added Elmore.
Back in 2018, ice jammed the Susquehanna River leading to an emergency evacuation for many in West Pittston.
Moore says she and her husband won't leave until an evacuation order is issued.
"If that time comes, we will be going door to door for anyone who will be affected to remind them if they have medications, have everything on your kitchen table to take with you," said Moore.
Being prepared to leave is always top of mind, but Moore realizes living along the bank of the Susquehanna comes with a price.
"Living on the river you know different things are going to happen. Some you look forward to, some not so much," commented Moore.
Elmore says if you have concerns, contact your local municipalities' EMA.
