Mayor George Flaggs Jr. has declared a state of emergency for the city of Vicksburg in response to rising water levels on the Mississippi River, which are expected to reach 48 feet by the weekend. The flood stage in Vicksburg is 43 feet.

Flaggs said Monday the declaration comes after speaking with Warren County Emergency Management Director John Elfer. Flaggs said the city and county are continuing to monitor river conditions as updates and new forecasts are released.

Flaggs said he has also been in contact with Vicksburg Public Works Director Dane Lovell, who said a flood wall is being installed as a precautionary measure. Lovell said crews will be staging and assembling the wall in areas along the river that are historically prone to impact from flooding.

“I appreciate the timely updates from Mr. Elfer and the readiness and responsiveness of our Public Works Department,” Flaggs said. “We are taking the necessary steps to stay ahead of this situation and ensure the safety of our residents.”

Flaggs said the city will continue to monitor river levels and will provide updates over the course of the week. For more information, Flaggs may be reached directly at 601-942-0492,

This is a developing story. More information will be released as it becomes available.