Pierre, Fort Pierre and Oacoma are among six South Dakota towns that have requested assistance from the state to help mitigate potential flooding from the Missouri River.
Gov. Kristi Noem says the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers expects Missouri River water levels to remain higher than average for the next several weeks. And, any additional rainfall could mean even higher levels.
Noem says while Corps officials have said they’re confident in their ability to manage the Missouri River system, state officials remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring the state’s citizens have the most updated information regarding levels and are prepared should the situation change.
As a precaution against possible flooding, the Department of Public Safety has worked with several South Dakota cities to ask the Corps to review their flood prevention plans to make sure they are updated and ready if needed. Along with Pierre, Fort Pierre and Oacoma, the state has received requests for assistance from Vermillion, Dakota Dunes and Yankton.
Noem says many South Dakotans have vivid memories of the 2011 flood. She says the protection of people and property remains her number one priority.
