04-16-2011, 11:10 AM
Indiana conservation officers are encouraging boaters to stay off the Ohio River for Saturday's Thunder Over Louisville event due to predicted high water and potentially dangerous conditions.
The National Weather Service forecasts the water level at McAlpine Dam's upper pool will be over 24 feet by Friday, putting the area at flood stage and creating strong, unpredictable currents and flooding in low-lying areas.
Visitors also are advised that the George Rogers Clark home site and boat ramp have been closed due to high water. Falls of the Ohio State Park interpretive center remains open.
"Conditions are about as bad as we've seen," said Capt. Jason Lee of DNR Law Enforcement, which plays an active role in safety patrols during the annual event.
"People who boat on a river need to be more diligent," Lee said. "If you have a motor stall out on Lake Monroe, you're subject to wind and small waves. If you lose power on the Ohio, you're floating downstream.
"When you get waters moving this fast and this high, the Ohio River can have entire trees or other debris floating down. If you have boats anchored, one tree can take out several anchor lines. It's just a huge safety issue."
Thunder Over Louisville features an air show and fireworks, and is a popular kickoff to activities leading up to the Kentucky Derby in May.
Media Contact
Conservation Officer Mac Spainhour, (812) 786-2365.
The National Weather Service forecasts the water level at McAlpine Dam's upper pool will be over 24 feet by Friday, putting the area at flood stage and creating strong, unpredictable currents and flooding in low-lying areas.
Visitors also are advised that the George Rogers Clark home site and boat ramp have been closed due to high water. Falls of the Ohio State Park interpretive center remains open.
"Conditions are about as bad as we've seen," said Capt. Jason Lee of DNR Law Enforcement, which plays an active role in safety patrols during the annual event.
"People who boat on a river need to be more diligent," Lee said. "If you have a motor stall out on Lake Monroe, you're subject to wind and small waves. If you lose power on the Ohio, you're floating downstream.
"When you get waters moving this fast and this high, the Ohio River can have entire trees or other debris floating down. If you have boats anchored, one tree can take out several anchor lines. It's just a huge safety issue."
Thunder Over Louisville features an air show and fireworks, and is a popular kickoff to activities leading up to the Kentucky Derby in May.
Media Contact
Conservation Officer Mac Spainhour, (812) 786-2365.