This combination led to major flooding. Some of the high river-level records from this flood still stand today. Another reason for the increased occurrence of flooding during late winter and early spring is due to ice break-up on our rivers and streams. During most winters, there is significant ice formation on our waterways. This type of flooding is known as ice jam flooding and can lead to rapid rises on streams and rivers.
Flash flooding is often the result with the more serious ice jams.
Flash flooding is the most dangerous kind of flood since the water rises very quickly, often taking people by surprise. Although flash flooding tends to be more localized than river flooding, it claims more lives than any other natural hazard in the U.S. River flooding tends to be more widespread and takes longer to develop. Therefore, there is often advanced warning. However, river flooding typically takes a much larger toll on property than flash flooding since it is more widespread. The National Weather Service issues both flash flood and river flood watches to alert you to the potential for flooding.