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Rapid melt-off causes concern in WNY creeks

Posted at 7:30 PM, Nov 24, 2014
and last updated 2015-11-19 19:29:52-05

Officials are advising residents who live in flood-prone areas to remain extra vigilant as 60 degree temperatures have caused a rapid melt off of seven feet of snow.

Cazenovia, Cayuga, and Buffalo Creeks have all fluctuated throughout the day with water levels rising above flood stage.

New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo has been in the Buffalo area for six days overseeing efforts to cleanup snow and prepare for possible flooding.

Throughout the day on Monday, the governor went to areas where flooding could be a problem in West Seneca and Lancaster.

Cuomo thanked National Guard members who were deployed to help on Willowdale Drive along Cazenovia Creek.

In Lancaster, the governor met with members of the New York City Fire Department Swift Water Rescue Team.

Afterwards, Cuomo said the situation could have been much worse had many out-of-town crews not responded to help.

"To all the people who pitched in, a really heartfelt thanks," said Cuomo.

Officials are continuing to monitor the creek levels, but falling temperatures are expected to slow the rapid thaw.