Cape Girardeau monitoring Mississippi River levels as flood stage approaches

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — City officials are closely monitoring Mississippi River levels as forecasts show the river is expected to reach flood stage later this week.

According to the City of Cape Girardeau, the river was at 30.9 feet Tuesday and continuing to rise. Current projections indicate the river will reach flood stage of 32 feet at approximately 7 a.m. Thursday.

City officials said both pump stations will be activated Thursday as a precaution.

Forecasts show the river is expected to crest at 32.5 feet Friday before falling back below flood stage late Friday or early Saturday. Once river levels drop below 32 feet, the city plans to close the pump stations.

Officials said neither flood gate is expected to close during this event, and both gates will remain open.

The city noted river forecasts can change and said staff will continue monitoring conditions and updating plans as needed.