Rivers and streams through Eastern Iowa were on the rise Tuesday as the National Weather Service warned some could reach flood stage as soon as Wednesday.
The agency said Tuesday’s rain could lead to flash flooding throughout the region. Forecasters predicted the highest probability for severe storms, some with heavy rains, is 3 to 10 p.m. Tuesday.
“Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas,” a forecast said. “You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flash Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flash flooding develop.”
Another round of minor flooding is on its way as the weather service predicts segments of the Wapsipinicon, Iowa, English and Cedar rivers — among others in Eastern Iowa — will reach flood stage in the coming days. The agency forecast:
- The Wapsipinicon River near Anamosa Shaw Road may reach the 14.5 -foot flood stage by Friday evening. The river there was measured midday Tuesday at 11.2 feet.
- The Iowa River at Marengo may reach the flood stage there of 15 feet by late Wednesday. Tuesday morning, it was measured at 11.6 feet.
- The Cedar River at Blairs Ferry Road in Palo may hit the 12.5 feet flood stage there by early Sunday. The river was measured at 11 feet Tuesday morning,
- The Cedar River in Cedar Rapids may reach the 12-foot flood stage by late Sunday morning. It was measured at 9.7 feet Tuesday morning.
After Tuesday’s storms, the weather service predicted a sunny Wednesday with highs in the mid-80s for the Cedar Rapids and Iowa City areas.