SCHENECTADY, N.Y. (AP) — Residents and officials in upstate New York are concerned about a massive 17-mile ice jam on the Mohawk River and the flooding risk it presents.

Schenectady resident Lewis Schwartz says he and his neighbors are anxious, calling the ice one of the longest ice jams in recent years. The National Weather Service along with the U.S. Geological Survey and state emergency management services are keeping a close eye on the ice with cameras and drone flyovers.

Officials say they are hoping for a "slow melt" of the ice, otherwise flooding could be possible. Hydrologist Britt Westergard tells WTEN-TV temperatures over the next few days in upstate New York should be ideal for a slow thaw of the ice.

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