Warren County Emergency Management Agency officials have pushed back the expected timeline for the Mississippi River to crest as a result of floodwaters making their way south.

Warren County EMA Director John Elfer said original forecasts projected the river would crest at 47.5 feet Saturday; however, newer models predict the crest will come Wednesday, April 23, at 48 feet.

Elfer said the river is expected to reach 46.5 feet Saturday and, as a result, officials will close Highway 465, from Highway 61 to Eagle Lake, Friday.

Last week, Elfer said portions of Vicksburg and Warren County are prone to flooding in events like next week’s – with the most recent coming in 2019 and the most dire recent flooding coming in 2011 – including Williams Street, the Ford and Kings subdivisions, Jackson Lane, Cedars Road and Highway 61 South. Elfer added businesses along Highway 61 South will see less water, however, after culverts and pumps were added in recent years.

Last week, Vicksburg Mayor George Flaggs Jr. declared a state of emergency for the city in response to the rising water levels and Public Works Director Dane Lovell said floodwalls have been erected across Vicksburg’s waterfront in anticipation of the flooding.

Elfer said both city and county residents should be prepared for standing water for up to a week-and-a-half, adding flooded areas are dangerous and should be avoided.

“My big thing is, please do not drive around road-closed signs or barricades,” he said. “Not only is it illegal, it’s dangerous. And stay out of the flood water. Don’t swim in it; don’t drive in it. Stay out of the flood areas. And you’ll know where they’re at. It’s pretty common-sense.”