Flooding on the Missouri River has already covered the narrow road to Howell Island near Wildwood, Mo. The river isn’t expected to crest at Howell Island until Monday. (NCGA photo)

The sudden flooding on the Missouri River is putting a strain on emergency providers and relief organizations. The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) urges corn growers to help in any way they can.

“It’s ironic. Our fields are dry right now, but a lot of water is coming down the river in one big bulge,” says Terry Hilgedick, who farms near Hartsburg, in central Missouri. “Right now we haven’t had a lot of rain here – it’s everyone else’s water.”

Hilgedick was preparing to assist in sandbagging the levees near Hartsburg. If forecasts are right, he says, the Missouri River will crest Saturday very close to the top of the levee.

Agricultural levee breaks have already taken place near St. Joseph, reports the National Weather Service. NCGA President Ken McCauley reports bottomland is flooded near his home in White Cloud, Kan.

The Missouri Department of Agriculture (MDA) is encouraging farmers across the state to monitor the flooding situation occurring near and around the Missouri River and take immediate action to move any livestock or equipment. “We are concerned with the impact that the recent and future flooding can have on Missouri’s rural communities and farmland,” said Matt Boatright, acting director of MDA.  “We are asking farmers and producers to take every precautionary measure possible for the safety of their families and their livestock and equipment.”

The Iowa Department of Transportation reported a number of roads in the southwestern part of the state were closed due to flooding, including I-29 from Rock Port, Mo. to Iowa Rt. 2 (exit 10).

In Nebraska the Rulo bridge over the Missouri River on Nebraska 159 is closed due to flooding.

How You Can Help

Iowa: The Loess Hills Chapter of the American Red Cross is operating emergency shelters in Harrison and Page counties. To find out how you can help call 712-332-4017.

In Missouri the American Red Cross Hotline number is 1-866-Get-Info. Volunteers at this telephone number will be able to share sheltering information for assistance, or how to donate items to the American Red Cross for relief efforts.

The Donations and Volunteer Hotline is 888-377-2100. AmeriCorps will be coordinating volunteers, and donated goods. Those affected by the storm may also contact the number to receive referrals and answers to questions. The donation lines are staffed from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. and messages will be returned.

In Kansas dial 211 or 1-888-413-4327 to reach United Way of the Plains, or the American Red Cross at Pratt Center 620-672-3651. Both organizations are accepting donations and requests to volunteer.

Volunteers in Nebraska can contact the Heartland Chapter of the American Red Cross in Omaha at 402-343-7775.