Overnight Efforts and Continued Flood Response

Overnight Efforts and Continued Flood Response

CEDAR RAPIDS, IA – September 27, 2016 –The Cedar River is cresting at 22 feet and will likely remain high for the next several days. Residents are still urged to stay out of the evacuation area and to heed curfew times until the flood risk has passed. Do not go near the temporary flood control system or go near water. Flood control information, including road closures, maps, volunteer information, and FAQ’s can be found on the City’s website: www.cedar-rapids.org.

Crews from the City as well as private contractors and the Army Corps of Engineers worked throughout the night to monitor for any potential weaknesses, seepage, or breeches. Efforts focused on mitigating water seeping out of the storm sewer system by addressing with pumps and reinforcing with plugs. The temporary flood measures of nearly 40,000 feet of Hesco barriers, as well as earth berms have been holding up well.

Crews will continue to spend the day monitoring the system for breaches or weaknesses. Until the river recedes to a safer level, the public is advised to stay out of the evacuation area. Evaluations will be underway to determine when it is safe to allow residents and property owners back into their homes and businesses. The City is asking the public to remain patient as crews work to maintain for the safety of the public.

Moving forward, plans will be formalized for re-entry into the evacuation zone and for the safe disposal or potential re-use of sandbags.

The many efforts of City forces, private contractors, community volunteers, and partner agencies have made a tremendous difference in fighting the second largest flood event in Cedar Rapids’ history. The National Guard continues to support the efforts of law enforcement to ensure the safety of residents and for the security of unoccupied property in the evacuation zone.

As a reminder: Solid Waste and Recycling will not be collecting in the flood evacuation zone; normal collection will continue throughout the rest of the city. The public is asked to use water conservatively to assist the storm sewer system. Transit operations will be evaluated as flood risk recedes and additional roads can be safely re-opened.