VICKSBURG, Miss. (WJTV) – Vicksburg Mayor George Flaggs, Jr., declared a State of Emergency for the city due to rising river levels, which are projected to reach 48-feet by the weekend.

Flaggs said he’s been in contact with John Elfer, director of Warren County Emergency Management, and is monitoring updates on current and forecasted conditions for the Mississippi River.

The mayor said he’s been advised by Dane Lovell, director of Public Works, that the City of Vicksburg Public Works Department will begin installing the flood wall as a precautionary measure. Crews will begin staging and assembling sections of the wall in areas prone to impact.

“I appreciate the timely updates from Mr. Elfer and the readiness and responsiveness of our Public Works Department,” said Flaggs. “We are taking the necessary steps to stay ahead of this situation and ensure the safety of our residents.”