The River Watch team reports that the breakup front on the Kuskokwim River is stalled at the mouth of the Johnson River, with strong, intact ice extending downstream. Upstream ice is backing up tightly to just below Napakiak, where water levels rose Thursday afternoon, encroaching on low-lying roads and structures. Minor flooding of these areas of Napakiak is likely. Backwater from the ice jam is also elevating water levels upstream to Bethel, reaching bankfull conditions and pushing water and ice into Brown's Slough. Minor flooding is possible overnight in low-lying areas around Brown's Slough, including Alligator Acres, especially during high tide. * WHAT. Flooding caused by an ice jam is likely. * WHERE. Kuskokwim River near Napakiak and along Brown's Slough in Bethel. * WHEN. Until 915 PM AKDT Friday. * IMPACTS. Kuskokwim River flows are elevated due to ice jam near the mouth of the Johnson River. Minor flooding in low-lying areas and overflow into poor drainage areas are likely. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - At 912 PM AKDT, the River Watch Team reported an ice jam on Kuskokwim River near the mouth of the Johnson River. Impounding water due to the ice jam will cause continued river rises upstream. - For Kuskokwim River at Bethel: At 7:00pm the stage was 8.1 feet. Flood Stage is 8.5 feet. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood - If you live near or along the Kuskokwim River in Napakiak or along Brown's Slough in Bethel, stay alert and be prepared to take action.
