Flood waters encroach on Prairie throughout weekend
The Mississippi River has continued to rise at a steady rate, consistent with predictions made by the National Weather Service.
As of Monday, July 1, the river measured 19.99 feet in McGregor, Iowa, the closest check point to Prairie du Chien. Predictions anticipated the river would peak at approximately 20.3 feet by Tuesday, July 2.
A release from the City of Prairie du Chien on Thursday, June 27, said St. Feriole Island will be closed to motor vehicle traffic indefinitely beginning on Saturday, June 29. The flood gate has also been closed for an undetermined amount of time due to the flood waters. Water traffic on the river has been restricted by Mayor David Hemmer and Crawford County Sheriff Dale McCullick until further notice. Water traffic is restricted when the river reaches 19.5 feet.
Multiple venues, attractions and events were impacted by the flood waters. The farmers market and Concerts in the Park were both relocated to Lochner Park, the Villa Louis Historical Site has been closed until further notice, the Legion Alumni fundraiser game has been postponed until July 20, the Junior Legion games were played at the Prairie du Chien High School, a disc golf tournament on Saturday was rescheduled to August 24 and all other events over the weekend were canceled.
Street closures include North Main Street from Washington Street to Frederick Street, the Washington Street Bridge and all roads on St. Feriole Island.
Health risks
Mayo Clinic Health System offers some important guidelines to help residents stay safe and healthy during the cleanup process. Floodwater can carry pathogens that cause illnesses, such as diarrhea, cholera, typhoid fever and hepatitis A. These diseases can spread through contaminated drinking water and food.
Floodwater also can contain hazardous chemicals from agricultural runoff, industrial waste or house-hold chemicals, posing risks of poisoning or chemical burns. Stagnant water from flooding can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of diseases.
Flood cleanup activities also pose risks of cuts, puncture wounds and strains. Clean all open wounds and cuts with soap and clean water and apply an antibiotic ointment. If you experience symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, swelling or fever, or if a wound becomes red, swollen or starts to drain, consult with a healthcare professional or your local medical facility.
To protect children, do not allow them to play in or near floodwater or areas that have been recently flooded. Additionally:
• ensure children wash their hands frequently, especially before eating.
• disinfect toys that may have been contaminated using a solution of two ounces of bleach in one gallon of water. Discard any soft toys that may have been contaminated, as young children may put these items in their mouths.
Food safety Maintaining safe food supplies during and after a flood is crucial. Here are some tips:
• keep refrigerators at 41 degrees or lower. If power is lost, an unopened refrigerator will keep food cool for four to six hours.
• keep frozen food from thawing. An unopened freezer will keep food frozen for one day if half full, and up to two days if full.
• boil water for one minute or use water-purifying tab-lets if tap water is unsafe.
• destroy canned goods that are rusted, pitted, swollen, leaking, or badly dented at rims and seals.
• rigid plastic containers without a screw-top are safe if not defective, not sub-merged in water, and free from soil, rust or dents.
• discard foods in non-waterproofed packaging if they’ve encountered floodwater.
Mold can pose significant health risks, particularly for those sensitive to it. To protect yourself:
• clean and dry buildings quickly (within 24-48 hours) using fans and opening doors and windows.
• clean moldy surfaces with a mixture of one cup of bleach in one gallon of water, and wear gloves to protect your hands.
• wear a mask to protect your lungs when dealing with mold.
The emotional impact of flooding can be severe, leading to stress, anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. Displacement from homes and loss of property can exacerbate these issues. Be mindful of physical and emotional exhaustion. Set priorities, pace your work and avoid working alone. Seek support from family, friends or professionals, and consider professional help if needed.
