Frozen Lake Alert: Fluctuating Temps Take Thickness

MADISON, Wis. (CIVIC MEDIA) – Record breaking high temperatures were hit, melting and shoving ice sheets around with breezy winds, forcing ice rescues.

With the changing weather and the major temperature fluctuations, remember that no ice is safe ice.

Last week we broke records across Wisconsin with temperatures spiking into the 50s and 60s. This is a 30 degree above average event, that doesn’t happen often. Then to close the weekend out on Sunday, we surged warm again. With breezy winds moving and shifting melting ice sheets, anglers are at risk.

So when walking or driving out on the ice, watch out for weak points. Look for things like ice heaves and shoves or spots along the shoreline that still have currents running under. These areas include dams, inlets and outlets. Avoid them.

Experts say ice may be good enough to support you in one place and possibly not in another. So check ice depth frequently.

Snow also acts as an insulator. This keeps the ice warmer and may aid melting it in spots.

If you do fall into icy waters, officials say remain calm and attempt all measures to get out safely. Bring an ice pick with you, shout to others and never go out on the ice alone.

On Friday, a UTV went through the ice on Petenwell Lake. The Adams County Sheriff’s Office reports it happened about a half mile north of the Petenwell County Park boat landing. The UTV operators made it safely back to shore. Using a drone, the Sheriff’s Office noted several areas of concern with thinning ice and open water on Petenwell.

On Saturday, a UTV went through the ice on Castle Rock Lake. It happened about 300 yards south of the Castle Rock County Park boat landing. The driver made it safely back to shore. Again, the Adams County Sheriff’s Office used a drone to make note of several areas of concern on Castle Rock Lake. They recommend using caution if you choose to go on the ice in these conditions.  

Rescues across Madison lakes such as in Lake Monona and Mendota have seen several ice rescues, as well.