Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol has issued a no…

Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol has issued a no unnecessary travel advisory on Oneida Lake effective immediately. This is a joint advisory in conjunction with the Sheriffs of Madison, Oswego, and Onondaga Counties, all of which Oneida Lake encompasses.

The water level in Oneida Lake is at dangerously high levels causing shoreline flooding and numerous types of hidden and potentially dangerous hazards in the water.

The wake from passing boats could cause additional issues for businesses and homes along the lakeshore. Boaters are reminded that they are civilly and criminally responsible for their wake and any damage they cause. The water levels are high, and any wake could significantly damage property.

Also, the unusually high water levels are hiding shore walls, rocks and much more.

With the warm weather forecast for the next several days, people near or on the water should utilize extreme caution due to strong currents. The Sheriff's Office also reminds everyone the importance of always wearing a PFD (life jacket) when near or on the water.

The NYS Canal Corp has already closed many of the locks within the canal system and more closures are anticipated.

A link to the updated closures can be found by clicking on the link below:

https://www.canals.ny.gov/wwwapps/tas/notices/

The Oneida County Sheriff's Office Navigation Unit will continue to assess the conditions on the waterways and will update any changes to the advisory.