WAVERLY - The City of Waverly has issued a flood warning for the Cedar River through Waverly. Utilizing information released by the National Weather Service, as of 7:30 a.m., Tuesday, June 10, 2008, Waverly officials are predicting major flooding along the Cedar River in Waverly with a crest of 19.3 feet on the afternoon of Tuesday, June 10. The river at Waverly was at 19.1 feet as of 8:30 a.m. Officials do not expect a substantial drop in flood levels until Wednesday. The projected crest is higher than the 1999 flood crest of 16.8 feet.

This will be a 100-year flood event. The areas of impact are those defined on the Flood Insurance Rate Map for a 100-year flood event. This map is available for viewing on Waverly’s website of www.waverlyia.com.

Evacuations are underway by the law center and fire department. Residents should stay out of the flooded areas and comply with evacuation notices for their safety.

Janesville, Plainfield, Frederika Communities—
Plainfield: As of 6 a.m., the water level has dropped 2”. Some residences have been affected with foundation damage and flood water on the first floor.
Frederika: As of 7:30 a.m., the river has dropped approximately 18”.
Janesville: Crest is expected early evening.

Safety and Health Issues—
Flood Water—There is sewage in the flood water. Residents are advised to stay out of the water.

Tetanus Shots—
• Tuesday, June 10, 2 p.m. – Waverly Health Center; Individuals should park in the green lot and use the green entrance to receive a shot.
• Wednesday, June 11, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Visiting Nursing Association/Bremer County Public Health; First National Bank, 921 West Bremer Avenue
• Tuesday, June 17, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Visiting Nursing Association/Bremer County Public Health; Redeemer Lutheran Church, 2001 West Bremer Avenue
• Other times; Visiting Nursing Association/Bremer County Public Health, 2530 University Avenue, Suite 3 in Waterloo, Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call (319) 235-6201.

If you have health insurance coverage for tetanus vaccination, please contact your health care provider to receive the vaccine. Those who have had at least three previous tetanus shots and have a clean, minor wound, a “booster” is needed every ten years. For all other wounds, a tetanus shot is needed after five years. More information about tetanus is available on the Iowa Department of Public Health Web site, www.idph.state.ia.us.

Shelters—Shelters are available to all impacted individuals. The Red Cross is operating shelters at The W on the Wartburg College Campus and at the West Gym at the University of Northern Iowa. Individuals needing assistance to evacuate may call (319) 352-4252.

Individuals with medical needs may go to Waverly Health Center. They should access the hospital from 2nd Avenue SW, park in the orange lot and use the orange entrance. Accommodations are available in Outpatient Surgery.

Shelters for pets are available at the following locations:
• Avenue of the Saints Animal Hospital – (319) 352-3722
• Waverly Veterinary Clinic (cats only) – (319) 352-5732
• Rock River Kennel – (319) 352-3200

Road Closings and Information— Travel is not recommended in Bremer County. Two emergency access roads are open in Waverly. Emergency access for Murphy Addition is open at Horton Road and 5th Street NE. Emergency access for the Jahnke Addition is open at 10th Avenue and 4th Street SW. For state highway closings, log onto www.511ia.org.

Bridge Access:
• The 3rd Street SE bridge (green bridge) is closed.
• Pedestrian/bike trail bridge across the Cedar River is closed.
• Bremer Avenue bridge is closed.
• Horton Road and bridge are closed.

Regional Transit services are cancelled for Waverly on Tuesday, June 10.

Utilities—
Electric: If you live in low lying areas you should be prepared for your power to be out for the duration of the flood. Waverly Light and Power will be shutting power down in affected areas as the water rises. Waverly Light and Power personnel are working to ensure the safety of persons dealing with electrical issues. Residents will not be notified before their power is turned off. When your power is out, your refrigerator will keep food edible for 24 hours. Try not to open it except as absolutely necessary. Requirements for disposal of spoiled food will be identified later Tuesday.

Natural Gas: MidAmerican has shut off natural gas supplies to affected areas.

Water: City of Waverly water is safe to drink.

Sewer: Sewer backups are possible. Power has been lost to all but the main sewage lift station in Waverly.

Contact Information:
• Evacuations – (319) 352-4252
• Waverly Light and Power – (319) 352-6251
• Natural Gas, MidAmerican Energy – (888) 427-5632
• Visiting Nursing Association/Bremer County Public Health tetanus shots – (319) 235-6201

The flood warning will remain in effect until waters fall below flood stage. If you live in a threatened area along the Cedar River, be alert for rising water and be prepared to take any necessary precautions.

Safety Reminders—The Waverly Police Department would like to remind citizens that flood waters can be very dangerous.
• Always obey and do not go around “road closed” signs. They are there for your protection.
• If you see excessive water in the roadway, avoid the area if possible.
• Never drive through flowing water, a foot of water can float most cars. This could cause you to be both stranded and trapped.
• Do not walk through floodwater. Water as low as six inches deep – or in some cases, less - may cause you to be swept away by strong currents. Use extra caution at night since visibility is greatly reduced and water on roads is difficult to gauge.
• Listen to the radio for traffic updates, and follow recommended routes.
• If there is no other route, proceed to higher ground and wait for water to subside.
• Do not play or stand in flood water even if there is no current. Flood water may become contaminated or conceal dangers such as wash out areas.
• Avoid unnecessary trips.
• DO NOT go sightseeing to look at flooded areas. Please allow citizens room to tend to their property without contributing to vehicle congestion due to limited roadway access.