Davenport, Iowa – Rising river levels are threatening communities across eastern Iowa and western Illinois as a new round of Flood Watches takes effect along the Mississippi and Wapsipinicon Rivers from Sunday evening through late next week.
According to the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities, flood stage could be reached as soon as Sunday night at Gladstone Lock and Dam 18, impacting Des Moines and Henderson counties, and by Monday morning in Burlington, where agricultural flooding is likely if the Mississippi River rises above 15 feet. Residents along the Wapsipinicon River near Anamosa and De Witt are also under Flood Watch, with water possibly impacting Lead Mine Road and homes along old U.S. Highway 61 as early as Monday afternoon and Tuesday, respectively.
Cities including Gladstone, Burlington, Anamosa, and De Witt are being urged to monitor river levels closely. In Burlington, Hancock, Des Moines, Henderson, and Lee counties may experience significant impacts, particularly to farmlands and local roads. For Anamosa, flooding may make Lead Mine Road impassable, while De Witt neighborhoods along the old U.S. 61 corridor face moderate flood threats if the Wapsipinicon rises past 11.5 feet.
Drivers should be alert for potential road closures, especially near low-lying bridges and levees. Residents are advised to keep emergency kits ready, charge electronic devices, and avoid unnecessary travel near rivers. This round of high water comes during a historically active summer flood season, with river levels reminiscent of notable 2021 crests in the region.
Flood Watches remain in effect through early Thursday for most areas, with advisories on the Wapsipinicon extending through Saturday, July 19. The National Weather Service will issue the next update by 11 a.m. Sunday. Residents are urged to check www.weather.gov/quadcities for the latest statements and be prepared for additional alerts if river levels continue to rise.
