The Delaware River in Monroe County is closed due to rising water levels, according to the National Park Service.
Officials say that all access points to the river inside Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area are closed until levels recede below 15' at the Montague, New Jersey gauge.
The Delaware River is expected to crest at 17' on Saturday afternoon after the remnants of Debby dumped rain on Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania.
Minor river flooding starts when it reaches 23' at the Montague gauge.
Park rangers note that when the river rises to these levels, hazardous conditions increase.
- Higher river levels bring swifter and stronger currents, reduced visibility, colder water temperatures, increased sediment, and debris.
- Submerged trees and vegetation on shorelines and islands can catch vessels and people entrapping them in what rangers refer to as a "strainer."
- Swift water rescue operations in these conditions also become extremely dangerous for emergency responders.
Once the river and its access points reopen, a properly fitted and fastened lifejacket must be worn by all individuals in any type of vessel.
River levels can be monitored here.