Residents wait on river crest | News, sports, jobs

“Our community has come together and worked so hard over the past few days to protect and protect homes and businesses,” said Niki Conrad, chairman of the Webster County Board of Supervisors. “I am so proud of our residents and grateful for everyone who volunteered or donated food and water. Everyone really helped.”

At 3 p.m. Wednesday, the river was at 16.12 feet, with an updated forecast model predicting a crest of 17.70 feet in the early morning hours today. The crest is expected in Lehigh about 12 hours later.

The National Weather Service also expects another 2.5 to 3.8 centimeters of rain later this week. This rainfall is not included in the predicted river height, but could cause additional flooding.

As officials wait for the river to crest, they continue to remind residents to stay away from floodwaters.

-Drone photo by Rick Thompson

The Des Moines River has flooded part of Sunkissed Meadows in Fort Dodge. The Kenyon Road Bridge and the High Bridge can be seen in the background.

‘Please don’t jump from bridges into the river’ said Webster County Engineer Jamie Johll. “The situation is incredibly dangerous. By entering the water, you are not only risking your own life, but potentially the lives of our first responders.”

Webster County Animal Control Officer Kaila Benson is also reminding residents to take care of their pets and not endanger them as water levels can rise quickly.

‘Don’t wait too long to evacuate’ Benson said. “Animals can sense danger, so if you wait too long the situation can become so chaotic that pets are difficult to catch.”

Residents in high alert areas are once again reminded to pay attention to flooding and pack a bag with medicines and medical supplies in case of emergency evacuations. Temporary housing remains available at Iowa Central Community College. Those in need of housing are asked to call the Webster County Health Department at 515-573-4107.