Warming Update: Ice Breakers Save Smith Island

J. Millard Tawes

From a day or two without something: DNR ice cutter called in to help Smith Island

With the ice building around Smith Island and Crisfield, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources dispatched its ice cutter to help.

Media outlets report the ice cutter, named J. Millard Tawes, cut a path Monday through the thickening ice in the Chesapeake Bay. State officials say the ice was between 2-3 inches thick, making it dangerous for the ferry and mail boats that run in the area.

Since Smith Island is only accessible by boat or air, the ice cutter was essential to make travel easier for those who live on the island.

The weather was brutal around here for a few days, with temperatures rarely cracking 20 F. Flag Harbor was starting to freeze over, but I'm surprised that the ice was that thick around Smith Island. Yesterday evening it warmed up abruptly to 40 F, and melted most of the snow overnight, and tomorrow, they're predicting a high of 60 F. I might even have to go fishing.

No, it doesn't disprove global warming, but it doesn't help their case either.