COUNCIL BLUFFS – The American Red Cross, Pottawattamie County Emergency Management, and Officials with the City of Avoca have coordinated the opening of shelter for area families and individuals affected by flooding from the West Nishnabotna River in eastern Pottawattamie County.

Officials, preparing for potential historic flood levels along the West Nishnabotna River are prepared to provide emergency sheltering for those whose property may be threatened by river levels that continue to rise. The shelter is located at the Green Hills Area Education Agency at 919 N. Chestnut St, Avoca, Iowa.

Anyone who has been displaced from their home is urged to come to the shelter. Red Cross volunteers are on hand to provide a safe place to stay, a place to sleep, a hot meal and referrals to community services.

Anyone evacuating to a shelter should bring essential items for each member of the family, including:

• Prescriptions and emergency medications • Foods that meet unusual dietary requirements • Identification to show residence is in affected area and important personal documents • Extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies and other comfort items • Supplies needed for children and infants, such as diapers, formula and toys • Special items for family members who are elderly or disabled

The shelter will remain open as long as necessary. The Red Cross is working closely with local emergency management officials to coordinate relief services.

To receive emergency weather warnings and community alerts such as evacuations, shelter locations, and other emergency notices, sign up for free alerts from Pottawattamie Alert, part of the Alert Iowa Network, at www.pottcounty-ia.gov.