By: Matt Scher, [email protected]
Humboldt, IA – The City of Humboldt released more information today for the ongoing flooding for the area Friday.
The City of Humboldt is now shifting focus from flood mitigation to recovery efforts. While the river crested on June 27, it is not projected to drop below major flood stage (14 feet) until Wednesday, July 3. For this reason, the City is encouraging all property owners impacted by flooding to leave sandbags in place through the weekend.
Current Street Closures:
- May Street
- 15 St. N from 5th Ave. N to 8th Ave. N.
- 8th Ave. N at the intersection with 15th St. N
- 9th, 8th, and Taft St. S from 11th Ave. S to 13th Ave. S
- Sumner Ave. from 4th St. to Humboldt Corporate Limits (Due to the Sumner Ave. Reconstruction Project; closure will begin on June 28)
The City projects that some of the streets listed above will be able to open by Monday, July 1st.
As far as water conservation, pumping levels at the Main Lift Station have remained stable and the city is rescinding the request to conserve water. Normal water usage can occur and should not place undue stress on their wastewater system.
The city thanks residents for their efforts in mitigating water use as it made a significant difference in flow rates and helped prevent a system-wide sewer backup.
Regarding cleanup efforts, the City of Humboldt is actively working with Humboldt County Emergency Management to secure additional resources for cleanup. Until the plan is finalized, it is acceptable and encouraged to place any debris or materials impacted by flooding curbside.
The City is also encouraging property owners to leave existing sandbags and berms in place through the weekend. This is because the West Fork of the Des Moines River will remain at record flood level for several days and may be impacted by rainfall upstream. If your sandbags are not placed flush with a structure, please note that a portion should be opened to allow for rainwater to flow away from the structure.
If you choose to remove sandbags from your property, they may be dropped off at Humboldt County Secondary Roads at 2221 220th St. You can contact Humboldt City Hall at (515) 332-3435 with any questions.