ROCK ISLAND, Ill. – (June 25) The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District, is expecting to close two locks on the Mississippi River due to rising river levels. The closures are necessary as the Mississippi River overtops lock gates making the locks inoperable.
On Thursday, June 27, Lock 17 at New Boston, Ill., is expected to close to all river traffic. Lock 16 at Muscatine, Iowa, is expected to close Friday, June 28.
Additional lock closures are not expected at this time. Since the Mississippi River levels will fluctuate due to additional rainfall, 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.
Visit the Corps’ on the Web @ http://www.mvr.usace.army.mil.
Release no. FY13-06-29