ROCK ISLAND, Ill. – (May 29) The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, will close three locks on the Mississippi River due to high river levels. The closures are necessary as the Mississippi River overtops lock gates making the locks inoperable.
On Wednesday, May 29, Lock 20 at Canton, Mo. will close. Lock 21 in Quincy, Ill., and Lock 22 in Saverton, Mo., will close on Thursday, May 30.
Additional lock closures are not expected at this time. Since the Mississippi River levels will fluctuate due to spring rains, it is too soon to forecast remaining lock closings or the duration of closures for this flood event.
The Mississippi River is moving swiftly and all recreational boaters are advised to use extreme caution. Swimming, wading or entering the Mississippi River during these high river stages is not recommended. There are no short cuts to safety. The Corps also urges people who live or travel near rivers to continue to monitor water levels and in particular, not to drive into water-covered roads. Alternate routes should be used.
Updated information about the Mississippi River is available on the web by visiting the Corps’ website at http://www.mvr.usace.army.mil/About/Offices/EmergencyManagement/2013Flood.aspx.
Release no. FY13-05-18