Spencer, IA (KICD) — All but one resident of Spencer is accounted for after massive flooding. Fire Chief Jesse Coulson says the driver of a submerged vehicle had still not been located as of noon Sunday.
Coulson says two rescue teams were formed, one North of the river and one South; and citizens on boats showed up to free residents trapped by quickly-rising water.
Engineer Jim Thiesse from Kruse, Cate, and Nelson – a frequent consultant for the city – estimates the Little Sioux River crested at 22.1 feet. The previous known high water mark was 20.12 feet in 1953.
Hundreds of homes have been damaged, and the city’s sewage plant was deluged. Public Works Director Mark White had hoped service could be restored after 48 hours, but that depends on how fast the water recedes, and how much damage was done.
Spencer Municipal Utilities Manager Steve Pick says his crews are working on the community’s electricity, water, and telephone service.
Clay County Emergency Management Director Eric Tigges says the Governor will declare Clay County a disaster area and request federal help, but says the state has already been an invaluable partner.
Spencer Chamber Director Sheriffa Jones stepped in to coordinate the effort to shelter and feed nearly 400 displaced residents.
City officials are coordinating donations and volunteers to ensure the proper help is given to the proper people at the proper time. The call center number is 712-264-8407.
The flooding and recovery efforts is a rapidly changing situation and the information included in this story is subject to change.