This winter, a thick layer of ice has formed on Emajõgi, up to 30 cm in some places. Many people have gone walking on the ice. Recent warmer days have made the ice dangerous. The Rescue Board warns: one should not go on the ice, especially near bridges and piers.
The head of the Rescue Board, Arvi Uustalu, says that there are places along Emajõgi where the ice is thick, but also places where it is thin and dangerous. There may be water under the ice that is not visible. If the ice breaks, the current can pull a person under. It is difficult for the Rescue Board to save anyone.
On Wednesday, one Rescue Board employee fell through the ice. He had safety equipment, but the current still pulled him. He said it was difficult to get out of the water. Emajõgi is especially dangerous in areas with strong currents.
The Environmental Agency measures ice thickness. For example, in Kvissental, the ice is 27 cm thick, and in the city center, it is 35 cm. Agency employee Tanel Toots says that the areas around bridges and piers are dangerous. People should check for themselves whether the ice is safe.
Tartu deputy mayor Priit Humal says that the city is monitoring the ice situation together with the Rescue Board. On Thursday, warning signs about the danger of the ice will be put up. Currently, going on the ice is not prohibited, as there are not enough resources for enforcement. If conditions worsen, a ban may be considered.
Toots adds that when the ice starts to melt, it quickly becomes dangerous. The ice can disappear completely within a few days. This should be kept in mind.