Authorities are asking everyone to avoid getting too close to the water.
Frederick, Md. (DG) -The recent heavy rains that the region has received over the past few days has prompted the National Weather Service to issue flood warnings for the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers.
Authorities are asking everyone to avoid getting too close to the water.
“Number one, the banks of the river are very slippery, they are muddy, they are murkey, the stones are wet and slippery. The ground itself is shifting and moving, and those two conditions can cause you to lose your footing and fall into the water. Even if you have no intention of getting into the water,” Candi Thomson, spokeswoman Maryland Department of Natural Resources Police said.
Thomson she said river rescues in these conditions make it dangerous for first responders.
“Every time first responders have to go in the water, they are at risk. They know it and they take that risk. Why put them there,” Thomson said.
There are flood warnings for the Potomac River in Point of Rocks, Harpers Ferry, Shepherdstown, Williamsport, and Hancock.
In Frederick County, MD, the Potomac River in Point of Rocks has the potential to cover a large section of the C&O Canal Towpath and reach the railroad tracks.
In Harpers Ferry, WV, flood waters could extend to the Old Federal Armory site. Flood waters could also flow out of the open tunnel between the Potomac River and lower town of Harpers Ferry, flooding the very end of Shenandoah Street.
The rivers are expected to fall below flood stage on Wednesday.
–Dianah Gibson