[Press Release] : Flooding problems persist in Boone County; flood warning issued for the area

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
Contact: James P. Mc Nabb - (573) 874-7400

Flooding problems persist in Boone County; flood warning issued for the
area

COLUMBIA, MO (April 30, 2009) - The Columbia/Boone County Office of
Emergency Management (OEM) continues monitoring the number of road
closings at low-water crossings in the county. As of 1 p.m., more than
15 low-water crossings have been closed by Boone County Public Works and
the State Department of Transportation due to water over the road. The
National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a flood warning for small
streams until 5:15 p.m. for Boone County, and a flash flood watch until
7 p.m. 

“Law enforcement and first responders have been very busy today,
keeping up with the number of low-water crossings which have been
flooded,” says OEM Director James McNabb. “Emergency crews have also
been busy, conducting water rescues of motorists in at least three
different areas over the last 24 hours. While, thankfully no one was
hurt, it emphasizes the fact that when water covers the road, it should
not be taken lightly. Motorists are encouraged to find an alternate
route when approaching a covered low-water crossing.”

McNabb reminds property owners that they are responsible for the
protection of their property, as well as their personal safety. “Those
living near these swollen creeks and streams need to watch for rapidly
rising water and take the necessary precautions to protect life and
property. That includes having an emergency plan to mitigate rapidly
rising water, keeping sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting, lumber and
shovels on hand. And most importantly, have a plan for evacuation.” 

The National Weather Service (NWS) is predicting more chances of
rainfall through at least Saturday evening, which could add to the
flooding problems. On average, more people are killed by flooding than
by tornadoes, lightning, and hurricanes. Most of these deaths occur at
night, when it is more difficult to recognize the dangers, and when
people are trapped in vehicles.

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