Water levels on the mighty Mississippi have not been this high in November since 1935, putting officials on a steady watch. The high levels of water are in part due to a large amount of rainfall in both Louisiana and Mississippi in October which are uncommon at this time of the year.
A flood warning has been issued that starts at the Red River Landing, north of Baton Rouge, LA and extends to the mouth of the river.
Officials do not think the Mississippi River will reach flood stage and expect a crest at Red River Landing above Baton Rouge, LA on November 16, 2009. Flood level at Baton Rouge is 35 feet. The last reading in Baton Rouge this past weekend showed the water level at 32.2 feet, a couple of feet below the flood stage.
In addition to the excessive rainfall in October, the Mississippi River is catching more water from the Ohio River, Kentucky Lake and St. Louis Basin. Normally the water level in Baton Rouge at this time of the year is only 20 feet.
Water levels in the New Orleans area were not as close to flood level as in Baton Rouge, LA. The last measurement was taken on Friday, November 6, 2009 in New Orleans and measured 12,8 feet. Flood level at New Orleans, LA is 17 feet. The river is expected to crest at 13. 5 feet on November 15, 2009.
The Corps of Engineers will be performing routine levee patrols several times a week until the Mississippi River falls back to normal water levels.
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