On Thursday June 20^th, experts from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services (DHSES) responded to reports of flood waters overtopping the Rice Creek Dam in the Town of Oswego, New York. Extreme precipitation in the area Thursday afternoon caused water levels along Rice Creek to swell rapidly impacting the dam structure.  Water levels in the area are declining, and state officials and divers from the New York State Police are continuing to monitor the dam structure to ensure there are no risks of failure.

Out of an abundance of caution, several homes were temporarily evacuated by local emergency responders Thursday night downstream of the dam, and all have been cleared to return to their homes as of Friday morning.  State officials from DEC, DHSES, Department of Transportation, NYS Police and the Office of Emergency Management will remain on scene to monitor the dam and conditions in the area in coordination with Oswego County and Town of Oswego emergency management staff.  Experts believe there are no risks of the dam failing and additional updates will be provided as they are available.