Jefferson City waits for Missouri River to breach levee

While emergency personnel were searching and rescuing individuals following a Wednesday night tornado, city staff also had to worry Thursday about the Missouri River flooding.

The Jefferson City Public Works Department originally anticipated water breaching the Capitol View Levee in North Jefferson City - which holds an elevation of slightly more than 30 feet - Thursday morning. As of 4:30 p.m. Thursday though, the levee had not been breached, said Brenda Wunderlich, public works administration supervisor.

She said she was unsure when the water would top the levee.

According to the National Weather Service, the Missouri River was at 30.79 feet as of 3:45 p.m.

The Missouri River is anticipated to crest at 31.8 feet today, according to the National Weather Service.

During a special City Council meeting Wednesday, Mayor Carrie Tergin issued a declaration of emergency for all city residents and businesses north of the Missouri River, and mandatory evacuations began Wednesday evening. The mandatory evacuation will stay in effect until Tergin or the City Council lifts it.

The public is not allowed in the North Jefferson City area, city staff previously said.

City staff also anticipate flooding in the Millbottom area of Jefferson City, as well as the intersection of Missouri Boulevard and East McCarty Street.

The Jefferson City Salvation Army's Lt. Chris White said Wednesday night The Salvation Army activated its community cot program, which is similar to what is available for excessively hot or cold weather during the summer and winter. He added anyone impacted by severe weather could come to The Salvation Army and have a place to sleep.

The Salvation Army also has flood-relief kits available, White noted.

The Jefferson City Public Works Department is the current "point of contact" for this flooding event, Public Works Director Matt Morasch said. He encouraged residents to visit the city website or call the department at 573-634-6410 during business hours, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. After business hours, calls should be directed to the non-emergency number for the Jefferson City Police Department at 573-634-6400.

Several Cole County roads remained closed: North Brach Road, Waterford Road, Murphys Ford Road, Meadowsford Road, Engineers Road, Railroad Street, Water Street and East Cole Junction.