Ameren cautions on lake icing threat

LAKE OF THE OZARKS, Mo. (AP) - The electric utility that owns Lake of the Ozarks is urging property owners to be on the alert for water level fluctuations and icing conditions.

Ameren Missouri says the latest round of severe winter weather and plunging temperatures means increased demand for electricity. That requires releasing water into the Osage River, which feeds the lake.

Ameren recommends that property owners remove docks during the winter months and to also disconnect hinges linking docks and seawalls or piers. That will allow the entire structure to follow fluctuating water levels. Property owners should also lengthen dock cables for when river levels drop.

Hourly information on water levels can be found online at AmerenMissouri.com.