Will County, IL – Residents and outdoor recreation users are being warned to stay off the Kankakee River today after officials activated a warm water siphon to manage dangerous ice conditions.
According to the Will County Emergency Management Agency, the warm water siphon from the Dresden Cooling Lake was turned on Friday, January 30, to help prevent ice from piling up along the river. The system works by opening a channel in the ice, allowing frozen sections to move downstream instead of accumulating and creating blockages.
Officials say the activation can cause ice to shift, weaken, or break apart suddenly, creating hazardous conditions for anyone on or near the river.
The warning applies to the Kankakee River from Interstate 55 downstream to the Illinois River, covering portions of Will County and surrounding areas in northeastern Illinois. Emergency officials stress that ice conditions may change with little to no warning, even if the surface appears solid.
Authorities are urging residents to avoid activities such as walking, fishing, snowmobiling, or recreational use on the river during this period. First responders note that rescues in icy river conditions are extremely dangerous and often life-threatening.
The siphon system is commonly used during winter months to reduce the risk of ice jams, which can contribute to flooding and infrastructure damage if left unmanaged.
Officials did not provide a timeline for how long the siphon will remain active but said conditions will continue to be monitored closely.
Residents are encouraged to share the warning with family members and neighbors who may frequent the river or nearby access points.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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