Jefferson City prepares for Missouri River flooding

Jefferson City leaders are getting ready for the Missouri River to crest at more than 30 feet this weekend, topping some city levies.

City Administrator Nathan Nickolaus told ABC 17 News the flooding of this river is moving faster and higher than floods he had seen in the past.

Mayor Eric Struemph issued a news release earlier that day, saying the city had activated it’s emergency operations plan and would be offering residents sandbags if they requested.

As of 5 p.m. Saturday, no one had requested sandbags from Jefferson City police. The number to call for sandbags or flood information is 573-634-6400.

One Jefferson City resident is experiencing the rising waters.

Ashley Bedell’s backyard is flooded with three feet of water.

Bedell said she always wanted to have a pool, but all the flooding is “too close for comfort.”

Jefferson City police and public works is offering residents sandbags to stop water from damaging their homes.

Saturday night, the Jefferson CIty levee was tested. The water level was 30.4 feet.

Police were station blocking off the park from walkers and bikers because the levee could break at any time with the high water level.