River Raisin ice jams cause flooding, road closures in Monroe [PHOTOS, VIDEOS]

A residential street flooded with a construction sign that says STREET CLOSED
Flooding in Monroe Photo credit WWJ/Mike Campbell

MONROE (WWJ) -- Residents in Monroe County are under a flood warning Friday as ice jams caused the River Raisin to rise above flood stage.

The river reached flood stage overnight, causing major flooding in residential streets nearby. The National Weather Service said it's expected to crest around noon on Friday, reaching 9.5 feet.

River filled with melting ice reaching level with land
The River Raisin water levels rising close to the sidewalk Photo credit WWJ/Mike Campbell

The water in the streets prompted a couple of rescues involving drivers who became stranded. At least one driver could be seen being hoisted over the shoulder of a firefighter this morning, WWJ reports.

John Wall, acting commander of the Monroe Police Department, said a resident in the neighborhood, near Michigan Avenue, started to drive into the flooded road and then the water became deeper than they had anticipated, so the fire department needed to rescue them.

Police have blocked off parts of Elm Avenue and Front Street due to the flooding and Wall is urging drivers to not ignore those barriers and go around them.

"Don't take that chance," said Wall.

He said if you're not sure or if it doesn't sound like a good idea to drive on a flooded street, then you're probably right. It's also a risk to your car, as many vehicles become disabled in deep waters, causing damage to the engine.

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Featured Image Photo Credit: WWJ/Mike Campbell