St. Louis – Flood preparations are taking center stage in the St. Louis District. Col. Bryan K. Sizemore, St. Louis District commander activated the Emergency Operations Center today to prepare for forecasted river stages. The EOC will operate 7 days a week from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
St. Louis District flood fight teams are responding and providing support to levee districts. Attention currently focuses along the Upper Mississippi River at points north of the St. Louis metro area.
“Activating the Emergency Operations Center enables us to respond to high water more effectively and allows our team of experts to get out in the field to support our partners,” John Osterhage, St. Louis District, chief of Emergency Operations said.
“We have been in contact with our levee districts to monitor the levees, discuss any issues or concerns regarding the forecasted river heights, and offer technical assistance,” Osterhage added.
The St. Louis District cautions people who live or who may travel near the Mississippi River to be watchful for any changing conditions. Heavy localized downpours can quickly result in flash flooding or other rapid rises in water levels. In addition, use extreme care when driving and never drive into water since it may turn out to be deeper or faster-flowing than expected.
“We are doing everything we can to keep the people behind the system safe but people should always remember to be aware of surroundings and not drive through flooded areas,” Osterhage said.
For more information please visit the St. Louis District Website at http://www.mvs.usace.army.mil/.
For the latest river and reservoir forecasts, visit http://bit.ly/stlwaterlevels.
Release no. 18-095