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Ice jams could become major concern along area rivers

PITTSBURGH — Ice jams could become a major concern along area rivers in the coming days as temperatures warm up and snow begins to melt.

The Kiskiminetas River began to flood Thursday near Hyde Park, forcing the closure of several streets.  A voluntary evacuation was put in place for some residents.

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Ice buildup along many of our rivers will start to melt as warmer air moves in over the next couple of days.  The melting ice coupled with runoff from melting snow and rain Sunday and Monday could lead to ice flow issues.

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The areas most likely to see ice jams are near sharp bends in the river where the ice doesn't flow through smoothly.  But, any low-lying areas near rivers could also experience flooding as backlogs in the ice can force water to spread out and go ashore.

Severe Weather Team 11 Meteorologist Scott Harbaugh is keeping tabs on the ice jams.  Watch his full report coming up on Channel 11 News beginning at 5 p.m. 

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