LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — The Louisville Metropolitan Sewer District has all 16 of its flood pump stations running right now as the Ohio River and Beargrass Creek continue to rise in the city.
MSD said in a news conference Monday morning that 55 of its 150 floodgates are now closed for what appears to be a top-10 flooding event in its history.
“Be aware of the water outside,” said Dane Anderson, operations director for MSD Flood Protection. “Don’t think it’s safe. Stay out of the waterways. As everybody’s been talking, don’t go around the barricades. (There’s) construction going on, (and) most of that has to do with the flooding going on. We’ve got crews all over the city. Be mindful of them. Drive cautiously.”
Crews have experienced some pump failures, because the system is 70 years old. The equipment is tested monthly but doesn’t have the same strain as flooding operations.
Workers said MSD will likely start winding down operations after Wednesday, depending on the level of the river. As of now, the Ohio River at McAlpine Upper is forecasted to crest around 2 p.m. Wednesday at 36.2 feet. The National Water Protection Service lists “Major Flood” stage at 38 feet.
This story will be updated.
