Mississippi flood outlook predicts above normal risk
By Shelia Tomkins
With melting snow and the arrival of spring, Guttenberg residents have learned to keep an eye on river levels as the traditional spring crest on the Mississippi River approaches.
Each spring the National Weather Service (NWS) prepares a series of flood outlooks for the potential of river flooding as the result of snow pack melt. Each outlook takes in account conditions such as river levels and current snow pack. The rate and timing of the melt, in addition to future precipitation, can affect predictions.
NWS issued outlook reports on Feb. 9 and Feb. 23, with the third due on March 9. The Feb. 23 report stated that the overall risk for flooding this spring is above normal along the Mississippi River.
The report noted that tributaries across Northeast Iowa have near to below normal chances for flooding this spring. The greatest chances were believed to be on the Mississippi River.
Watch next week's issue for an update on the March 9th NWS report.