Citizens living near the Skunk River urged to stay informed
LEE COUNTY, IA -- The following is a press release from the Lee County Emergency Management Agency:
In the early morning hours of January 25th the Skunk River ran out of its bank and flooded Augusta IA along with other areas near the river.
This flooding was caused by runoff and an ice jam at the Augusta Bridge.
This ice jam runs from the Augusta Bridge to the HWY 61 bridge.
Recent over flights confirm that this jam is not moving.
Officials from Des Moines County, Lee County, Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management, Iowa Department of Transportation, National Weather Service Quad Cities, Army Corps of Engineers, and the Cold Region Research Engineering Laboratory have been in discussions as to what to expect as temperatures begin to rise and the runoff begins to raise the level of the river.
Based on these discussions there is no immediate threat to the citizens of Des Moines or Lee County that live in Augusta or along the Skunk River.
The two possible scenarios that we are faced with is 1) should the temperatures rise rapidly there is a very good chance that the ice jam will cause the river to run around it and cause flooding.
Scenario 2) that temperatures rise slowly and with sunshine warm the river and melt the ice jam.
This also could cause flooding although it is expected that it will not be as serious.
Officials will continue to monitor the situation and are prepared to respond as needed. Evacuation of the area may be necessary.
Citizens that live along the Skunk River or any other rivers, creeks, etc are advised to pay close attention to the status of the river and any warnings that may be issued.
They are also advised to 1. Get a kit 2. Make a plan and 3. Stay informed.
Residents should also purchase sandbags prior to flooding so that they will be available in the event of a flood.
For more information on disaster preparedness visit www.ready.gov, www.bereadyiowa.org, or contact your local emergency management coordinator.
TV Station Profiles & Public Inspection Files forKHQA