Des Moines Flood Risk Decreases as Raccoon River Crest Forecast Lowered
The flood risk in Des Moines has significantly decreased following recent heavy rains, with the Raccoon River now projected to crest at a lower level than initially anticipated. Des Moines Water Works crews had closed and sandbagged the flood gates at the Water Treatment Plant on Fleur Drive on Wednesday, a measure not taken for flood risk since 2019. The initial forecast predicted the Raccoon River would crest at over 17 feet, which would have led to flooding on Fleur Drive and potentially reached the treatment plant levee. However, the latest forecast indicates a crest of approximately 15 feet. Kyle Danley, chief operating officer of Des Moines Water Works, stated that while the situation is improved, the area is not entirely out of danger. Fleur Drive is expected to remain open due to the reduced flood risk, though sandbags and flood gates will stay in place as a precaution. Emergency managers noted that much of the heavy rainfall bypassed the Des Moines area, falling to the north and south, which contr...