Temperatures have been far from consistent this winter, and it's causing some major problems. Officials from the National Weather Service are warning people that another thaw is coming. 

Late last week, communities throughout the state experienced some severe ice jams, including in Campbell, Fort Covington, Whitesboro and Sylvan Beach. Meteorologists say ice jams happen when temperatures suddenly rise. The ice in creeks, rivers and streams melts and water levels rise due to rain and snow melt. Ice and debris back up on low bridges and obstructions. 

Oftentimes, quick action can prevent severe flooding, but last week, some communities weren't that lucky. Experts with the National Weather Service want everyone to be aware. 

"We need people to be alert," said Dave Nicosia, warning coordination meteorologist with the NWS in Binghamton, "that if they live in an area that is subject to ice jam flooding, right now it's cold, but we're going to thaw early next week, and you need to be prepared to move at a moment's notice, because that's how fast these ice jams come up."

NWS officials urge residents to listen to the warnings, and if they're urged to leave, do so.