Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – River levels could rise quickly near major roadways over the next 24 hours as warming temperatures in the 50s combine with rain to break up ice across western Pennsylvania.
According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, a Flood Watch remains in effect through 1 p.m. Friday for areas where ice jams are most likely, including along Connoquenessing Creek, Oil Creek, Redbank Creek and the Allegheny and Youghiogheny rivers. Forecasters warn that melting river ice, combined with runoff from rainfall, may cause ice to jam and force water out of banks with little warning.
Communities near Route 28 along the Allegheny River, I-376 through the Monongahela Valley, and I-79 near low-lying creek crossings should monitor conditions closely. Ice jams can cause rapid upstream flooding, impacting secondary roads, riverfront properties and access points near Kittanning, Oil City, Franklin and portions of Westmoreland County.
Emergency managers stress that ice jam flooding is unpredictable. Water levels can surge within minutes if ice shifts or releases. Drivers should never cross flooded roadways and must follow barricades if closures occur. Residents in flood-prone areas should charge mobile devices and prepare to move vehicles or belongings to higher ground if warnings are issued.
The Flood Watch continues through Friday afternoon, and additional warnings may be issued if river gauges indicate sudden rises. Officials urge the public to report observed ice jams or flooding to the National Weather Service.
