AKWESASNE — Water levels on the St. Regis River continue to decline but residents along the river are asked to remain vigilant and be alert for any changing conditions.

The Unified Incident Command is reminding individuals that the State of Emergency issued by the Tribal Council at 5 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 22, remains in effect until the declaration is rescinded.

Data provided by the USGS water-monitoring station in Brasher Center reported the water level for the St. Regis River is continuing to decline. The water flow for Hogansburg is currently estimated at 4,250 cubic feet per second, down 50cfs from Sunday, Feb. 25.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) forecasts water flows to resume a steady decline to seasonal levels through Wednesday.

The Unified Incident Command Post however, is continuing to monitor two ice packs located upstream near McNeil Road and in Helena at Maple Ridge Road.

The Unified Incident Command Post reports that only two roads remain closed to all traffic: Church Street (at the St. Regis Mohawk School) and the entire Grey Street due to a washout.

Swamp Road still remains covered with water and is partially washed out. Traffic cones have been placed on Leo Swamp Road to direct traffic, while road barriers have been placed on Church Street and Grey Street. Officials warn motorists not to drive around, move, steal of vandalize road barriers or signs. Road barriers have been placed for the safety of travelers, as water on roadways pose a risk to vehicles and all-terrains (ATVs) due to hidden debris or washouts.

Residents impacted by high water are reminded that floodwaters are considered hazardous material and may contain fuel and other harmful substances. Residents who have been evacuated are instructed to not pump out their basements, nor return or enter their homes until assessments have been conducted. Home assessment of 30 homes impacted by high water began at 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, with 10 homes cleared for individuals to safely return. At this time, assessments are focused on households with no or minimal damage for the quick return of residents. They are asking displaced residents to contact the Tribe’s Emergency Planning Office at (518) 358-2272 ext. 2210 or 2230 to schedule a time for an assessment to be conducted. Some households will require long-term mitigation, so the Division of Social Services will be working with individuals on accommodations. In the meantime, they continue to encourage community members to consider providing temporary lodging for any displaced family members or friends, the tribe said.

Officials are monitoring two ice jams located upstream. As a precaution, more sandbags are available for free, which can be picked on the right side of Tribe’s Maintenance Building, as well as behind the Tribe’s Animal Control pens on the building’s left side.

They are instructing individuals to stay away from flood areas and closed roadways, as water levels and ice jams remain unpredictable. Please remain vigilant and cautious for changing conditions.

Anyone in need of assistance can call the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Police at (518) 358-9200 or Franklin County Emergency Services at “9-1-1”.

Listen for more information and instructions on 97.3fm CKON, the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe’s Facebook page and website, as well as on Akwesasne TV.