Flooding in the Midwest

The torrential rains that have recently plummeted the Midwest have caused flooding of the Missouri River. Presently, in Saline County MO the river has reached ten feet above flood levels at Waverly. As the "Mighty Moe" pushed against the levees more than a hundred volunteers came to the rescue. They worked all hours filling sandbags to reinforce the levees and hold back the raging river. Parts of highway 65 have been blocked off due to the flood waters endangering travelers. This over flow is affecting the regional farmers, residents, and businesses; and will only worsen if the flood levels continue to increase.

Since Saline County is primarily an agricultural community the flood waters could be devastating. Although the crops need rains to survive, flood waters provide too much of a good thing. Low bottom fields can get filled with standing water and cause the plants to die. Crop loss can reduce harvest yields bringing the farmers less profits. Some farmers can go bankrupt after experiencing a failed crop. This can greatly hurt the local businesses and community that rely on its agriculture commerce.

As the heavy rains continue not only does the river rise but so does the water table. This is the underground water that provides our drinking water supply. This influx of water can increase the sediment in the water and cause contamination by sewer waters mingling with the drink water. Many areas are under a boil water order until the water is no longer under the threat of contamination. Drinking bottled water is currently the safest choice for area residents.

The local residents are also being affected by the increased water levels. Many homes are experiencing flooding in their basements. This can cause water damage to the home and foster a breeding ground for mold. Mold is not only harmful to the structure of the house but also to its occupants. Mold can cause severe reaction to those with allergies. The increased moisture can also cause walls and flooring to rot costing the home owner greatly.

Missouri hasn't seen flooding like this since the floods of 1993 which caused the area great damage. The Missouri River can also be a place of fun and enjoyment when it's not in a flood stage. This spring seems to be the time for severe weather everything from the tornados in Kansas and the fires in Florida. In conclusion hopefully the weather won't bring more rains to Missouri and further complicate this predicament.