WAPELLO COUNTY, IOWA -- Water levels on the Des Moines River at Ottumwa are falling after a 20.04 ft crest on Wednesday, August 11th. The U.S. Army Corp of Engineers is forecasting lowering levels over the next few days.
Red Rock Reservoir is expected to maintain a steady outflow of 45,000 CFS.
The City of Ottumwa is maintaining a high state of readiness in the event of additional heavy rainfalls and/or rising river levels. A 24-hour levee inspection patrol is underway in Ottumwa to identify and correct potential problems as they develop. A small area of erosion has occurred on the south bank of Ottumwa’s levee near the Beach Ottumwa. That situation is not a threat to the levee’s integrity and is being repaired. Over 30 stormwater pumps are running to move excess water from the City into the Des Moines River. City and County officials remain confident that the resources are available to meet the demands created by the current forecast.
Motorists are reminded to respect road closure barriers. The Wapello County Sheriff’s Department is patrolling several areas where water is over the road.
The City of Eldon continues to fill sandbags as a preventative measure. Persons wanting to volunteer to help can report to the Eldon City Hall at 421 W. Elm Street. Please dress appropriately for outdoor work; bring work gloves and a round nosed shovel if you can.
Officials at Bonaparte have suspended sandbagging efforts. Adequate protection is in place for the current condition and materials remain available should they be required.
Release from the City of Ottumwa
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