Public Notice: High Flow Notice for the Owasco River and other streams in effect

Owasco River High Flow from August 2021
Owasco River High Flow from August 2021

Posted October 26, 2021

High Flows on the Owasco River

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that A HIGH FLOW EVENT is in effect on the in the Owasco River. Due to extremely wet weather received over the past 24 hours, flow in the Owasco River will remain well above 1000 cubic feet per second (CFS) for the next several days continuing through the weekend of October 29-31. As of 5 pm on October 26th the river flow was measured at 1700 cubic feet per second (CFS). 

The purpose of this notice is to inform the public to stay away from and use extreme caution near and around the Owasco River.  Several areas along the Owasco River and all other streams in the City have already experienced localized flooding and there will continue to be an increased risk for localized flooding and personal injury can result in areas along these rivers, brooks and streams, as well as, downstream from the City of Auburn. The public should take caution and avoid unnecessary contact with the Owasco River and other water tributaries at all times.

The City of Auburn Department of Municipal Utilities will be continually monitoring flow and downstream flooding impacts during this event. Flow in the Owasco River will be reduced once upstream flows and seasonal lake elevation normalize, however, this will take the next few days.

Department of Municipal Utilities staff will continue to monitor river flow and all critical assets on a regular basis. 

To report any concerns associated with high water flows the public can call the City Water Filtration Plant at (315) 253-8754. 


MEDIA RELEASE: The Cayuga County Sheriff's Office has issued a TRAVEL ADVISORY.

Date: Tuesday, October 26, 2021 4:45 pm

Incident: Travel Advisory

Location: Cayuga County

Release Prepared by: Lieutenant Michael J Wellauer

 

Due to continuing heavy rainfall parts of Cayuga County, especially southern Cayuga County and low-lying areas near waterways, are experiencing heavy flooding. Many local and state roadways in low areas and areas near culverts may be water covered. In many cases, debris may be washed into the roadways.

Highway Departments and Emergency Crews are running short of barrels and barricades to close all the flooded roadways. Travel is hazardous in many areas. Flooded roadways may be washed out or have heavy currents.

Please travel with caution, slowdown in areas with water across the roadway and avoid roadways that are completely submerged.

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