There are now two primary sand bagging locations seeking public volunteers, at New Bo City Market and at the Overlook Pavilion at Ellis Park. Bring your own shovel.

Many area schools, churches and community groups are hosting sandbagging efforts to support the community.

The National Weather Service upgraded the forecast crest for the Cedar River in Cedar Rapids to 24.1-feet early next week. If that were to happen, significant portions of the city, including much of the downtown district, Czech Village and NewBo, would be at risk for significant flooding.

Volunteers are needed for helping residents in low lying areas prepare for potential flooding. You are encouraged to call the United Way of Eastern Iowa at 211 to help.

Additionally, if you're a resident or business owner that needs help moving items to safer ground, you can call 211 for support.

As a result of the impending flood, the Baconfest event scheduled at New Bo on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. has been postponed and will b e rescheduled at a time TBD.

In addition, New Bo Market will close Friday, Saturday and Sunday so that work can continue before flood waters arrive.

Road closures are being planned preemptively on Saturday to deploy traffic control in advance of rising water in these areas. Some roads have already been closed including portions of Otis Rd and Ellis Rd west of Edgewood.

CBS2 anchor Kevin Barry tweets that 1,349 residents along with 389 commercial properties are expected to be affected by flooding according to the Mayor of Cedar Rapids.

The Gazette tweeted that at the end of today's news conference, Mayor Corbett said he's asking city council to declare state of emergency for Cedar Rapids.

 

[sources: Gazette, CBS2 News}

More From 104-5 KDAT