Big Blue River expected to crest at historic height

The City of Shelbyville is under a state of emergency due to historical flood conditions.

While the Little Blue River officially peaked at 13.28 feet and is receding, it is still categorized as being at Major Flood State, according to a city media release Sunday afternoon.

The Big Blue River is expected to crest around 2 p.m. Sunday at a peak of just over 20 feet – the record is 20.2 feet recorded in 1913.

Significant damage has already occurred throughout the floodplain, according to the city, with uprooted trees now floating downstream.

Currently, no traffic is permitted on River Road. Floodwaters are moving swiftly and unpredictably. Standing water may conceal debris, sinkholes or washed-out pavement.

An evacuation site continues at the Shelby County Fairgrounds, 500 Frank St. in Shelbyville. The site is dry and fully-staffed by the American Red Cross with cots, meals and basic supplies.

City personnel, including the fire department, police department, DNR as well as street and utility crews are continuing 24/7 operations to support evacuations, monitor river activity and respond to emerging needs.

An evacuation notice for low-lying areas and areas prone to flooding was released Friday warning of the dangers of flooding created by steady rainfall across Shelby County.

Sunset Park and Kennedy Park were closed due to dangerous flood waters. So was the Blue River Trail at Blue River Memorial Park.

As the rivers rose, evacuations of Walkerville, south of the Big Blue River near Indiana Avenue and Eastern Avenue, and the Walnut Grove Campground (London Road) commenced.

Shelbyville’s emergency water rescue crews have stayed busy helping evacuate residents and their pets when needed. On Saturday, 19 people and several pets rescued by boat from the Walnut Grove Campground (photo).

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