Missouri towns prepare ­- again - for flooding

ARNOLD, Mo. (AP) — Several towns in Missouri are bracing for yet another round of significant flooding.

Heavy rain fell on parts of the state over the weekend, the result of the remnants of Hurricane Ike. At least three deaths were blamed on the weather.

The sudden rain is causing rivers to swell yet again, including the Meramec, the Missouri and the Mississippi. Major flooding is predicted at several communities including St. Louis, St. Charles and Ste. Genevieve.

In Arnold, the Meramec is expected to reach major flood stage for the third time this year. Fortunately, the town never took down sandbags that were put in place during the first flood in March.

In St. Charles County, the Missouri is expected to reach more than 11 feet above flood stage, threatening seven private levees.