VICKSBURG, Miss. (WJTV) – In response to the rising water levels on the Mississippi River, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Vicksburg District closed the gates of the Steele Bayou Control Structure on April 8.

Due to the changing conditions on the river, the gates were reopened on April 9 to allow more water to flow out of the lower Yazoo basin. The USACE anticipates that the gates will close again.

“The safety of residents and communities remains the Corps’ number one priority as it continues to closely monitor the situation and support local flood-fighting activities. Other than possible issues traveling to and from the area, there are no other expected impacts to the Eagle Lake community at this time,” the USACE said.

The Steele Bayou Control Structure was constructed in 1969, and is located about 10 miles north of Vicksburg.

Recent heavy rainfall across the Mississippi and Ohio River valleys has caused water levels on the Mississippi River to rise rapidly. As a result, the interior stage of the Yazoo Backwater Area is now forecasted to crest at around 90 feet in late April.

In addition to the closure of the Steele Bayou gates, USACE is preparing for flood fighting in other areas. Vicksburg is expected to reach Phase 1 of its flood control plan later this week.

Downstream, Natchez is expected to reach Phase 2 early next week, which may include more active flood-fighting measures, such as sandbagging, levee repairs, and notices for high-risk areas.