Flood warnings on Missouri's Current River today

Preparations are underway for flooding on the Current River in southern Missouri.

Heavy rainfall in Ripley County and north of the area on Tuesday has quickly filled the river that is usually about 3 feet deep and is known for its recreational floating trips on kayaks and inner tubes.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Current River is projected to crest at 21 feet at 6 a.m. on Thursday, just under major flood stage.

An earlier forecast warned that the river could swell to 28 feet. Police and emergency crews went door-to-door to businesses in downtown Doniphan to make them aware of the situation. They said any level over 18 feet is a problem for downtown. Riverfront Park has also been closed.

The Doniphan School District announced that classes were canceled on Thursday and Friday because of the flood level predictions.

Elsewhere on the Jacks Fork and Current Rivers, gauges located at Montauk and Akers have failed, and the ranger station at Pulltite has been almost completely submerged. Residents around Van Buren have been told to expect some damage from flooding.

A flood warning is in effect until late Friday.



(Photo: Ozark National Scenic Riverways)