Cuyahoga River Levels Increase in Kent

Residents visiting John Brown Tannery Park in Kent, Ohio, can expect to see higher water levels along the Cuyahoga River, according to Fire Chief James Samels. The rise is a direct result of recent heavy rainfall in the area.

Normal Conditions Despite Rising Water

Chief Samels emphasized that these conditions are typical following significant precipitation and do not currently warrant public concern. “We do expect the water ways to be up when there’s been a lot of rain,” he stated.

River Flow Rate and Safety Concerns

Currently, the river is flowing at approximately 1300 cubic feet per second. While this is lower than the 1500+ cubic feet per second recorded during river rescues last summer, officials still advise against entering or approaching the river. “It’s up, so we don’t recommend that anyone gets in or near the river,” Samels cautioned.

Local Residents Observe High Water Levels

One Kent resident, who wished to remain off-camera, noted that the river level is the highest they’ve observed since moving to the city in 2017. Wendy Starcher also commented on the unusually high water, stating she hadn’t anticipated it when she came to the park to take photographs.

Ground Saturation Contributing to River Rise

Brett Lee, Deputy Director of the Portage County Emergency Management Agency, explained that the current ground saturation is a key factor. “The saturation levels in the ground right now are extremely high, so of course the only way the water is going to go is downhill and find the lowest spots,” Lee said. He anticipates continued high water levels for some time.

Warning Against Entering the Water

With warmer weather approaching, Lee strongly urges the public to avoid the water due to swift currents and cold temperatures. “It’s not the time of the year to be playing around in the water right now,” he warned. Emergency crews will continue to monitor the situation and respond to any reported incidents, though none have been received at this time.