28 May 2019
UPDATE
The Mississippi River levels are expected to continue to rise to near historic levels as heavy rain continues to fall throughout the Upper Mississippi basin. Over the next week it is expected to crest at 44 feet downtown St. Louis - 14 feet above flood level, according to U.S. Geological Survey data.Â
25 May 2019
There is currently a high risk of tornados, severe storms and flooding across the states of Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska and Oklahoma; you're advised to check weather forecasts and warnings from the US National Weather Service.
Situation:
Flooding expected over the weekend and into next week. Following a flood-prone spring across the Plains and levees that have had to endure long periods at flood stage there is an increased risk for severe flooding as more rain is expected.
Downtown, the Mississippi River is expected to climb to its 4th or 5th highest level since records began in 1700s.
Projected crest of 41.9 ft, 12 feet above flood stage, possibly higher (see chart below)
Rising flood waters have already prompted severe warnings in the area
Coast Guard issued notice closing portions of the Mississippi and Illinois rivers near St. Louis to all vessels – citing extremely high water and fast moving currents
Mitigation Steps:
Monitor local media to track potentially dangerous weather and flood alerts
Establish where to take shelter in the event of a tornado at your place of work and where you’re living
Make sure that electronics are fully charged in the event of power outages
Never drive through flooded areas
Avoid flooded areas altogether
Keep a supply of bottled water in the event that water supplies are compromised
DISCLAIMER and Hold Harmless
Disclaimer: LSDS gathers information from multiple sources and offers insight and perspective to travelers. Sources cannot be validated for accuracy in every instance. Travelers assume all risk associated with their travel and are responsible for the decisions associated with travel and for their own safety. Users of this reference document agree, to hold harmless LSDS (LLC) its employees and clients associated with any risk or injury incurred during travel.