The date for floodwater predicted to reach Warren County via the Mississippi River has once again been pushed back in forecasts, but at a higher crest, the Warren County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) is reporting this week.

Warren County EMA Director John Elfer said Tuesday that the river is now expected to crest at 49 feet Monday, April 28, five days later and nearly a foot higher than the previous forecast.

“The takeaway is that if we get to 50 feet, we’re going to have some problems,” Elfer said. “If we get to 55 feet, that’s what I’m concerned about. I don’t see it getting to 55 (feet), but if we did, Highway 61 north and south would be under water.”

While Elfer said he does not expect a crest 50 feet or above, he cautioned that the current forecast is reason enough for residents to take notice.

“Forty-nine feet is a lot of water,” he said. “We already closed Highway 465 (Friday) between Highway 61 and Eagle Lake.”

Elfer said it is important that residents heed the EMA and other emergency personnel’s warnings to not take any chances with standing water.

“Just don’t drive around the barricades,” he said. “There is no reason for anyone to get hurt or killed. But this is still a lot of water. Forty-one percent of North America’s water comes down the Mississippi.”