BURLINGTON, Iowa (AP) — A temporary flood barrier at Burlington has failed along the swollen Mississippi River, sending floodwaters rushing into the city’s downtown. The National Weather Service says Burlington officials have confirmed that a large, sand-filled barrier failed Saturday afternoon, forcing some businesses in the downtown area to evacuate.

The weather service had issued a flash flood warning for the area through late Saturday night, saying a four- to six-block area of downtown Burlington is being affected. Authorities urged people in the area to seek higher ground and avoid driving or walking through flooded areas.

The barrier breach is reminiscent of a similar breach April 30 at Davenport, about 75 miles upstream on the Mississippi River. That breach also sent floodwater rushing over several blocks of downtown Davenport.