Army Corps of Engineers opens emergency operations center

<p class="p1">U.S. Army Corps of Engineers St. Louis District Commander Col. Anthony Mitchell activated an Emergency Operations Center Saturday, Dec. 26, to increase awareness and prepare for forecasted river stages.</p><p class="p1">“Activating the Emergency Operations Center enables us to respond to high water events better and allows our team of experts to get out in the field to support our partners,” said Matthew Hunn, St. Louis District Corps of Engineers, Chief of Emergency Operations in a news release.</p><p class="p1">St. Louis District flood fight teams have been mobilized and are ready to respond, providing support and assistance to levee districts and communities.</p><p class="p1">Heavy localized downpours can quickly result in flash flooding or other rapid rises in water levels. </p><p class="p1">In addition, use extreme care when driving and never drive into water since it may turn out to be deeper or faster-flowing than expected.</p><p class="p1">“We are doing everything we can to keep the people behind the system safe but people should always remember to be aware of surroundings and not drive through flooded areas,” Hunn said.  </p><p class="p1">More information is available on the St. Louis District Flood website at http://bit.ly/2015FloodFight.</p><p class="p1">The latest river and reservoir forecasts can be found at http://bit.ly/stlwaterlevels.</p>