Major river flooding predicted by midweek

Cape Girardeau will see major flooding later this week, if meteorologists' predictions prove accurate.

The Mississippi River is expected to crest Jan. 3 at 46 feet, 14 feet over the flood stage of 32 feet, according to predictions from the National Weather Service.

The river is expected to rise to 34 feet today, which is considered minor flooding.

It likely will reach moderate flood stage of 37 feet late Monday and major flood stage of 42 feet by Wednesday afternoon.

The Mississippi River experienced major flooding in July, cresting at 43.08 feet. If predictions hold, Jan. 3's predicted crest of 46 feet will be the fifth-highest in Cape Girardeau recorded history.

Flooding in low-lying areas, such as part of Highway 177 north of Cape Girardeau and Old Highway 61 near the Diversion Channel south of Cape Girardeau, is likely this week. The city of Cape Girardeau probably will close its floodgates at Themis Street and Broadway, as well.

The all-time crest on the Mississippi River in Cape Girardeau is 48.49 feet on Aug. 8, 1993.

After a rainy weekend, Cape is expected to see more precipitation Monday.

Rains this weekend have saturated the ground, increasing the likelihood of flooding. Cape Girardeau County is among a handful of counties in Southeast Missouri and Southern Illinois to be placed under a flash flood watch, which will remain in effect through Monday night.

As much as four inches of rain are expected before the storm system dissipates.

tgraef@semissourian.com

(573) 388-3627