By Chris Taylor
Paducah, KY – Flooding along the Ohio River is expected to crest in Paducah at just above the major flood stage of 52 feet. In Smithland, the crest prediction will be well over the major flood threshold and major flood damage is expected.
The US Army Corps of Engineers is attempting to alleviate Ohio River flooding by cutting back outflow of dams on Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley through Friday. Their goal is to reach zero outflow. Pool levels at Barkley and Kentucky will begin to rise steadily before cresting above normal summer levels. The dams are expected to begin releasing water again on Monday.
Some areas removed from the rivers and lakes still face flood threats due to the flat terrain and over saturation.