COUNCIL BLUFFS – The American Red Cross, Pottawattamie County Emergency Management, and Officials with the City of Council Bluffs have opened a shelter for area families and individuals affected by flooding from the rising Mosquito Creek in Council Bluffs.  Estimates on continued rise of Mosquito Creek have prompted preemptive protective actions considering the proximity of an area apartment complex and some residential properties in the area. The Valley View Apartments have seen rapid water rise into their parking lot and current conditions have led officials to recommend voluntary evacuation from the area. Those in the area who wish to voluntarily evacuate until threat has passed and do not have an alternate place to go can may seek shelter at Salem United Methodist Church at 14955 Somerset Avenue, Council Bluffs, Iowa.

The shelter will be available for people to come to after 7pm this evening. Anyone who has been displaced from their home or has voluntarily evacuated the Valley View area is urged to come to the shelter. Red Cross volunteers will be 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.