The Iowa Department of Transportation reported about 6:30pm on Wednesday that Highway 71 is closed in both directions in Carroll. The closure is between County Road E37 and US 30 (Carroll). The road is closed because of flooding. A detour is in operation.

Harrison County EMA announced a mandatory evacuation in place in Missouri Valley. Evacuation area is any residence and business in Missouri Valley from 1st Street and Erie west to Interstate 29 and anything south of the railroad tracks

Highway 30 is closed from highway 44 to Denison. The alternative route is Highway 44 to Highway 59 north back to Highway 30.

Do not cross running or standing water over the roadway.

COUNCIL BLUFFS – As heavy rains move in and snow melt continues, the potential for river flooding begins. Officials are preparing for what the National Weather Service has described as a flood event that has historic potential, primarily along the West Nishnabotna River. Levels at the Missouri River are forecast to reach a potential 29 feet in minor flood stage by 7am Saturday morning, similar to events observed last summer. The Nishnabotna is forecast to crest at just over 26 feet in major flood stage by 1am Thursday, topping the 23.5 foot record set in July of 1993.

“There are many variables in this scenario that will impact the river levels,” commented Doug Reed, Director of Emergency Management. “With existing snow pack, frozen ground, and varying ranges of potential rainfall this event could go either way – however, we need to be prepared for the worstcase potential.” In doing so, a Declaration of Disaster Emergency has been authorized for the communities of Avoca, Hancock, Oakland, Carson, Macedonia, Council Bluffs, and unincorporated areas of Pottawattamie County as a preemptive measure should any of the jurisdictions require assistance from mutual aid partners or state agencies based on actual observed conditions.

Currently, county and city agencies are preparing to secure storm sewer systems, roads, and other infrastructure that may be impacted. Urban streets are likely to experience flooding during the heavy rain event and some rural highways and roads near and around the Nishnabotna River could be closed due to floodwaters. Pottawattamie County Conservation is working to relocate the Botna Bend Park buffalo herd to a safer location and moving the elk herd to a higher elevation within the park. Emergency Management has been coordinating additional resource support with Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management should they be needed and coordinating preparedness efforts with partners such as MidAmerican Energy and others.

Residents and people with interests along the rivers are advised to begin monitoring river conditions and prepare accordingly. With frozen ground conditions creating higher runoff than normal, river levels have the potential to rise more rapid than in normal high water and flooding events. For more information on flood preparedness, visit the Floods and Flash Floods page at www.beready.iowa.gov.

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.

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.