The Mississippi River is on the rise once again. The National Weather Service is predicting additional flooding in the twin Pike Counties as early as this weekend. As of noon yesterday (Monday) the river stage in Louisiana was at 18.5 feet – the flood stage is 15.0 feet. By Saturday, it’s predicted the river in Louisiana will be at 21.3 feet. At 20 feet several streets that connect with Highway 79 South begin to flood. At 21.7 feet, floodgates are installed at the city sewage treatment facility. By the beginning of next week, maybe sooner if more rain falls in the area and north, the Champ Clark Bridge in Louisiana could close if levels reach 24 feet. Louisiana Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Chris Koetters said they are hoping to make a decision regarding the July 4th activities in the next day or two.
In Clarksville, a special meeting was held Monday afternoon to discuss if and when the city could look at sandbagging because the river level at noon was 29 feet with flood stage set at 25 feet. This means water is beginning to enter the parking lot entrance at the Clarksville Riverfront Park. The National Weather Service is predicting river levels of 31.7 feet by Saturday if not sooner. At 31 feet the Clarksville Boat Club, south of Lock and Dam 24 begins to flood along with First Street.
You can keep up-to-date with the river levels on the radio, online and on our Facebook page.