Flood warning issued for Red Oak

The nearly continual rain for the past week has contributed to a flood warning for Red Oak. 

The National Weather Service in Omaha has issued a flood warning for the East Nishnabotna River At Red Oak affecting Montgomery County.

The warning is in effect until Friday morning, or until the warning is cancelled.

At 9 a.m. Tuesday the stage was 15.4 feet, or 2.6 feet below flood stage. The flood stage is 18 feet. 

According to the NWS, moderate flooding is forecast. The river was expected to rise above flood stage by late this afternoon and continue to rise to near 24.3 feet by early Thursday morning. The river will fall below flood stage by Thursday afternoon.

Montgomery County Emergency Management Coordinator Brian Hamman commented on what residents can expect if the river rises to the levels predicted. 

“If we reach the 24.3 or near like their forecast we’re going to experience a lot of low land flooding around but I don’t think we’re going to get to the point where we set flood closures but it’s kind of a wait and see with what we get for more rain this evening. I would say by tomorrow morning we’re going to have a good idea what we’re looking at,” Hamman said.

Hamman added that residents near the river and in flood prone areas need to be on the alert.

“If you live in areas or around the river that are prone to flooding, now is the time to be prepared for the potential for flooding and the need for evacuations. We will continue to watch the river levels and determine if any more actions need to be taken such as road closures and the need to install flood gates. At this time, no road closures are expected,” Hamman advised.

Drivers in Red Oak are advised to not drive cars through areas where water covers the road. The water depth may be too great to allow your vehicle to pass safely. Turn around and find an alternate route.