Cedar Falls, Iowa – Rising water levels on two key eastern Iowa rivers are expected to bring minor flooding into the end of the week, with warnings now in place for Cedar Falls and communities along the Shell Rock River.
According to the National Weather Service in Des Moines, the Cedar River at Cedar Falls rose above flood stage late Wednesday and is forecast to crest at 90.1 feet by Thursday evening. The river is expected to fall below flood stage by early Friday afternoon. At 90 feet, floodwaters reach the north half of Tourist Park in Cedar Falls, posing risks to nearby recreation areas and roads.
Farther north, the Shell Rock River at Shell Rock is also above flood stage, measured at 12.6 feet Wednesday night. Minor flooding is ongoing, with seepage reported in basements close to the river. The Shell Rock is forecast to fall below flood stage by early Friday morning but will remain elevated through next week.
Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roadways, as most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles. Residents near low-lying areas should secure belongings and monitor river levels closely.
Warnings remain in effect for Black Hawk, Bremer, and Butler counties until at least Friday.
