Water levels still causing problems in East Cape Girardeau

Alexander County, Ill., Emergency Management officials are struggling to lower and maintain water levels in East Cape Girardeau caused by high floodwater on the Mississippi River.

Marty Nicholson, emergency management coordinator for Alexander County, said the water levels are currently about a foot and a half to two feet deep around the intersection of Highway 3 and Highway 146 and south of the intersection on Highway 3. However, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation's latest list of road closures, flooding hasn't closed either of the roads.

Last weekend emergency responders assisted two people on Reiman Road evacuate their home by boat.

Nicholson said there are three pumps set up and running south of the evacuated residence that are making a difference with the level.

"It's working," she said. "It's pulling some of it out, but there's so much. It's going to take time."

As to how much time it will take to clear out all of the water, Nicholson said it depends on how long floodwaters remain at high levels. There's no way to predict at this point.

"It just keeps on coming, and there's no way to stop it."

Any Alexander County residents in need of evacuation assistance can contact emergency management, the Alexander County Sheriff's Department or the Cairo Police Department.

Pertinent address:

East Cape Girardeau, IL