Flooding in Iowa City reaches University of Iowa campus; no crest for at least 2 days

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By Becky Ogann

Story Created: Jun 14, 2008 at 11:06 AM CST

Story Updated: Jun 14, 2008 at 11:06 AM CST

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) - Flooding is causing major damage in Iowa City today. And the Iowa River is not expected to crest for at least two more days.

More than 200 homes have been evacuated.

Johnson County Emergency Management spokesman Mike Sullivan says the flooding is much worse than in 1993.

The Iowa River runs right through the University of Iowa. Students and faculty joined with residents and the National Guard to fill thousands of sandbags, but it wasn't enough. They have given up on protecting an area of the campus known as the Arts Campus. University spokesman Steve Parrott says it was just too unsafe for the crews.

Only one bridge connecting the two sides of downtown Iowa City is still open. Officials say it may have to be closed this weekend.

The river is expected to reach 33 feet to 34 feet Monday or early Tuesday. Flood stage is 25 feet.

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