Experts keep a close eye on floods in rural areas in the southeast
(KBSI) – Some communities are breathing a sigh of relief while others are still closely watching rising streams and rivers with warnings of flash flooding still in affect.
City leaders point out what towns could be hardest hit, and how they are plan to stay one step ahead of possible floods. The rising waters near Commerce, Missouri is always a concern for Scott County Sheriff Wes Drury whenever a flood warning is issued.
“As you can see behind us, the river is almost at its banks and Commerce is one of the first cities in our county that floods through the river.” Drury explained as he observed the riverfront.
He says commerce is usually the most impacted by flooding in his county. Since Beryl’s aftermath continues to sweep through, streams throughout this small town show the effect in the form of high rushing water.
“The other creeks that feed into it are right at the tops but the more rain we get, the more it’s going to push it down stream.” Drury said.
With Beryl’s wrath leaving a mark from the rivers to the roads; Drury wants to remind residents around his area to slow down and avoid certain roadways, to prevent hydroplaning. In the meantime, he says authorities will be keeping an eye on the levees.
“Then we have the corps of engineers’ levee from here on down to, I believe, Arkansas. So, we’ll be running the levees as much, checking them for boils and so forth.” He assured.
Back in Cape Girardeau, Captain Jojo Stewart is not only a firefighter, but also doubles as Assistant Emergency Management Director. Right now, his main duty is keeping a close eye on streams and the Mississippi River. He says the river will hit flood stage by next week — 35 feet.
“So, we just make sure we have our boats ready. Try to let everyone know, hey, if it’s going to rain real, hard, real fast, flash floods. Just stay out of the water. Don’t drive through the water. It doesn’t take much water for your car to get caught up.” He explained.
Both pump stations are currently active near the city limits of Cape Girardeau, which helps control flooding.
“But if you live outside of the city, you can easily go over the riverbanks pretty fast. You kind of have to monitor that especially if it’s raining up north of you and it’s flowing down that way.” Said Stewart.
He says the management team is working with the National Weather Service, cautiously optimistic they will only see minor flood issues this week.
