Nebraska Governor declares a state of emergency due to ice jams

February 6th, 2010 - 2:49 am ICT by BNO News  

LINCOLN, NEBRASKA (BNO NEWS) – Nebraska Governor Dave Heineman on Friday declared a state of emergency due to the potential for ice jam-related flooding along the lower Platte River.

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 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.

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

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