By: Matt Scher, matts@977thebolt.com
Humboldt, IA – Historic river flooding is set to arrive in Humboldt on Wednesday in the West Fork of the Des Moines River.
In a meeting held by the Humboldt County Emergency Management Agency on Monday afternoon, public safety officials are charged with the next steps in preparedness for the City of Humboldt in what is being called a historic flood.
That is Humboldt County EMA Director Kyle Bissell on the record flooding that is coming to Humboldt Wednesday in the West Fork of the Des Moines River. As of Monday afternoon, the forecast from the National Weather Service for the West Fork in Humboldt calls for a record crest of 16.8 feet on Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. Bissell says once the crest is reached, the water will stay around for quite a bit.
The water level is set to slowly decrease from 16.8 feet Wednesday to 15.3 feet on Monday, July 1, which is still considered in the major flood stage and is a tenth of a foot below the previous record flood of 15.4 feet set in April of 1969. Bissell says that Humboldt can expect a second crest with more water coming from Minnesota.
The East Fork of the Des Moines River will reach its crest Monday night at 7:00 p.m. at 21.9 feet before starting to recede. Sand bag efforts are ongoing at Humboldt County Secondary Roads before Wednesday.
If you are unable to obtain sandbags or need assistance in doing so, you can contact Bissell at Humboldt County EMA.
In an effort to minimize the volume of calls during the flooding, law enforcement in the area are urging that if you choose to evacuate, to let others know.
That is Chief Deputy Corey Lampe with the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office. He says to also leave a note for first responders with the names of people leaving a residence, when you left, and where you are going during the flooding. If you choose not to evacuate and become trapped, law enforcement advises individuals get to a higher level and call 9-1-1 immediately with your name and location. County and City Law Enforcement asks that you stay out of flooded areas and certain do not drive across roads as they may have been washed away. Also, stay out of flooded areas if you are not part of the designated evacuation team.
Concerns regarding the City of Humboldt’s water were addressed by City Administrator Cole Bockelmann.
MidAmerican has been in contact with residents living in the flood plain with the requirement of shutting off gas, and if necessary electrical to those areas.
Any businesses affected by the flood are to contact Alissa O’Connor with the Humboldt County Development Association at (515) 332-2557.
KHBT 97.7 The Bolt will share updates as more information regarding flooding are made available. Follow us for the latest updates on our website 977thebolt.com and our social media pages.