As officials continue to monitor rising water levels on the Mississippi River, precautions have been taken to mitigate flooding in the state.
On Tuesday afternoon, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Vicksburg District closed the gates of the Steele Bayou Control Structure. Due to changing conditions on the Mississippi River and the river slowing its rise, the gate reopened on Wednesday to allow more water to flow out of the lower Yazoo basin.
However, the corps plans to close the gates again in the near future. At this time, the plan is to get as much water out of the basin as possible to prevent devastation to the local populace.
“The safety of residents and communities remains the Corps’ number one priority as it continues to closely monitor the situation and support local flood-fighting activities,” a statement from the Army Corps of Engineers reads. “Other than possible issues traveling to and from the area, there are no other expected impacts to the Eagle Lake community at this time.”
The Steele Bayou Control Structure was constructed in 1969 and is located about 10 miles north of Vicksburg. The structure, combined with the Mississippi River and Yazoo Backwater levees as a Mississippi Rivers and Tributaries project, serves as a critical flood risk management tool to prevent the Yazoo and Mississippi Rivers from backing up and flooding the Yazoo basin in the Delta.
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Recent heavy rainfall across the Mississippi and Ohio River valleys has caused water levels on the Mississippi River to rise rapidly. As a result, the interior stage of the Yazoo Backwater Area is now forecasted to crest at around 90 feet in late April.
In addition to the closure of the Steele Bayou gates, the corps is preparing for flood fighting in other areas. Vicksburg is expected to reach Phase 1 of its flood control plan soon, meaning there could be an implementation of increased monitoring, deployment of flood-fighting resources, and preparation of flood barriers.
Downstream, Natchez is expected to reach Phase 2 early next week, which may include more active flood-fighting measures, such as sandbagging, levee repairs, and notices for high-risk areas.
“USACE is also working closely with County Emergency Management and other local authorities to ensure the effective deployment of resources in flood-prone areas,” the statement from the corps continues. “These coordinated efforts are crucial in minimizing flood damage and ensuring the safety of residents. USACE will continue to monitor water levels and adjust its flood control operations as necessary to protect affected communities.”
Area residents are encouraged to contact local authorities and management officials for updates about conditions in their areas and should avoid activities on or near flood control works.
