Flood Waters Safety Advisory

Post date: Sep 21, 2013 2:46:4 AM

News Release from

The Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District

Date: Sept. 20, 2013

Contact: Jeff Buettner, Public Relations Coordinator

Phone: (308) 995-8601

South Platte Flood Waters Safety Advisory

(HOLDREGE, Neb.) -- The Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District is advising the public to take safety precautions when encountering water that is entering its system of canals and reservoirs as a result of South Platte River flooding.

The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency issued a statement this week that flood waters entering Nebraska from Colorado may contain large debris, animal carcasses, bacteria, raw sewage and other harmful material such as pathogens, petroleum products and chemicals.

A portion of the water from the flooding is being diverted into Central's Supply Canal east of the City of North Platte. The water will be carried throughout the Supply Canal system, including Jeffrey Lake, Midway Lake, Johnson Lake, Elwood Reservoir and portions of the Phelps and E65 irrigation canals. While avoiding contact with the water is recommended, individuals who do come in contact with the water should avoid touching their mouth or eyes and try to thoroughly wash off as quickly as possible.

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