‘Extreme conditions’: Parts of James River Park system close as water levels rise

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Parts of the James River Park system closed Monday morning due to dangerously high water levels.

The 8News team spoke with Josh Stutz with the Friends of the James River Park to get a better understanding of what's going on with the River City's river.

"It's pretty extreme conditions out there right now," Stutz said.

Spots along the James River -- including Huguenot Flatwater, Pony Pasture and Dock Street -- closed down Monday, Feb. 17 as water levels continue to rise. According to river experts, the river is up to around 16 feet as of Monday afternoon.

"That puts us at flood stage," Stutz said.

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Stutz added that the parks aren't facing too much physical damage just yet, but we may see certain areas in need of repairs in the next few weeks.

According to Stutz, the main concern at this point is someone ending up in the icy cold water.

"The river, itself, is very high and very dirty -- full of debris," Stutz said. "It's a beautiful thing to look at. It's cool, natural phenomenon ... but it's pretty dangerous and it's going to do some damage to our local park, here."

High water levels along the James River and throughout some parts of the James River Park system on Feb. 17. (Photos: 8News)

High water levels along the James River and throughout some parts of the James River Park system on Feb. 17. (Photos: 8News)

High water levels along the James River and throughout some parts of the James River Park system on Feb. 17. (Photos: 8News)

High water levels along the James River and throughout some parts of the James River Park system on Feb. 17. (Photos: 8News)

High water levels along the James River and throughout some parts of the James River Park system on Feb. 17. (Photos: 8News)

According to Stutz, as trees and debris get pulled into the fast-paced rapids, their power can grow into thousands and thousands of pounds of force racing down the James. He urged people to be smart and safe this next week.

"I think it's great to look at it from a distance," Stutz said. "I'll get up on a bridge, or get to some dry spot in the park, where you can watch and hear these rapids go by. It is a great thing."

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Stutz shared a message to members of the community who might opt to visit a river entry point.

"We just ask that people do it safely and that they don't take any risks with getting too close to it, or trying to get that cool Instagram shot, or whatever, and leaning into the water," Stutz said. "It's just not worth the risk to be swept to the sea practically before anyone [can] get to you."

Again, Central Virginia expects some winter weather starting Wednesday. We're told that -- depending on how much snow falls west of our area and how quickly it melts -- that could add to the heightened water levels locally.

For now, people are urged to avoid going out on the river.