Corps to keep reservoir levels lower to brace for possible flooding

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Kansas City District says it will keep water levels lower in reservoirs because of the risk of spring flooding.

"Due to ongoing challenging conditions with wet soils and higher than normal river levels across the Missouri River Basin, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas City District is canceling plans to increase water levels in reservoirs for the spring as stated in the annual water level management plans," the district said in a news release Thursday.

The Corps said last spring reservoirs hit record levels.

"This temporary modification will better position the Kansas City District's reservoirs to receive spring runoff, and manage for locally heavy rainfall following record lake levels across the district last year," the Corps said.

Historic flood levels were recorded along the Missouri River last spring, with major impacts felt in places such as Jefferson City, Mokane, Chariton County, Howard County and southern Boone County. Experts say significant flooding is possible this year, as well.

The river remained below flood stage Thursday on most gauges in Central Missouri.