Concern over an ice jam on the Kicking Horse River has subsided over the weekend.
The Town of Golden confirmed on Monday morning that the ice jam in the Kicking Horse River had shown considerable signs of stabilizing. Aerial and ground assessments by authorities have confirmed the river water has successfully channeled through much of the ice between the canyon and the Columbia River confluence.
Late last week excavators had been place along the river bank, and the alley way behind 9th Avenue North was closed off to traffic. As of monday the excavators were removed, and full access was reopened in the downtown.
Colder temperatures continue to produce floating frazil ice which remains a concern and it is evident that there is a restrictive flow point near the confluence with the Columbia River, but authorities have determined it is no longer cause for immediate concerns.
A slight warming trend that has been predicted this week is anticipated ton continue assisting the river to maintain and stabilize a channel through the ice.
The Golden and Area Emergency Program team will continue to monitor the situation, as any large scale swings in temperatures could result in a change in condition and renewed preparations for any potential threats.
Ice and snow is creeping closer to the Kicking Horse River Bridge on Wednesday (Dec. 14) afternoon.
