Officials at the Kinzua Dam announced a significant increase in water releases scheduled for Monday, warning that the change could lead to rising river levels downstream over the next several days.

According to Kinzua Dam resource manager Doug Helman, outflows will begin Monday, with gate openings spread over several hours to avoid sudden surges in water levels. Officials say residents and recreational users should remain alert.

Boaters and anglers are being urged to remain cautious and stay alert to the rising water levels.

Brian Majeran, a civil engineer with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ water management unit, said the decision to increase outflow is tied to current reservoir levels.

“We are a little bit above summer pool, so we are releasing excess runoff to bring levels back down,” Majeran explained. “We have timed the releases to occur after the rivers have already crested to help reduce flood risk.”

The increased releases are expected to continue for several days, though the exact duration will depend on weather conditions and ongoing monitoring. Majeran noted that dam operations follow federally authorized water control manuals designed to balance reservoir levels while minimizing downstream flooding.

“It’s going to be weather dependent,” he said. “We’ll continue to monitor forecasts and conditions to ensure outflows are operated carefully and safely.”

The Corps of Engineers works in coordination with partners such as the National Weather Service to track weather patterns and water levels to support flood risk management across the region.

Those near the river should remain cautious and prepared. Wearing life jackets and staying aware of changing water conditions are strongly encouraged.