SYRACUSE, N.Y. — All Onondaga County Waterways are closed.
Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon signed the emergency executive order on Tuesday afternoon. McMahon said that the order is due to “dangerously” high-water levels.
This order comes after days of flooding in areas near waterways or lakes, such as Oneida Lake.
“Right now, the most important thing residents can do is prioritize safety by staying off all local waterways,” said McMahon in a news release. “Elevated water levels create unpredictable conditions, hidden hazards and risks that are not always visible from shore. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation as officials work to protect both public safety and the surrounding communities. Your patience and caution truly make a difference.”
The Onondaga County Executive Office is working with the Sheriff’s Office and the Canal Corporation to ascertain public safety.
“Our top priority is the safety of everyone, as well as protecting the properties of our county residents,” said Sheriff Toby Shelley. “We ask for your patience and compliance. Please respect the Executive Order, stay off the closed waters, and help us keep Onondaga County safe.”
McMahon and Shelley said a major risk for high-water are the hidden dangers they possess. Specific information about their warning is posted below:
Preventing Property Damage: Elevated water levels mean that shoreline infrastructure, such as private docks, retaining walls, and residential properties, is exceptionally vulnerable to any water displacement, which can cause severe erosion and structural damage.Avoiding Submerged Debris: Flooded waterways carry a massive amount of hidden, partially submerged debris. Logs, branches, and other heavy materials are swept into the canals, creating major hazards for any vessel.Bridge Clearance Hazards: Rising water drastically reduces the clearance space under bridges and overhead structures, putting any vessel attempting to pass underneath at immediate risk of collision. Dangerous Currents: The strong, unpredictable currents associated with floodwater make the waterways extremely difficult and hazardous to navigate.
Waterways aren’t the only thing affected by the flooding. It’s also walkways, which hinders those trying to get outdoor exercise.
Catherine Seidl, a neighbor, said, “I didn’t realize how bad it is.”
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The order will remain in effect until May 8 if it’s not rescinded earlier.