Macon, Mississippi – The Noxubee River at Macon has crested at 32.6 feet early Wednesday, causing flooding in nearby low-lying areas. The National Weather Service in Jackson has issued an extended flood warning through Friday evening, as the river remains above flood stage for several days.
Ongoing Flooding and River Levels
The river has exceeded its flood stage of 28 feet and is expected to stay above this level until early Friday morning. By Sunday night, the water level is forecasted to slowly recede to 18.6 feet. Currently, minor flooding is affecting areas, including the sewage lagoon west of Macon, although the access road remains open.
Safety Warnings for Residents and Drivers
Residents near the river are urged to avoid flooded areas, especially overnight when visibility may be limited. The National Weather Service’s “Turn around, don’t drown” advice is critical, as most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles. Drivers are warned to use alternate routes and avoid low-lying roads, as they may become impassable due to rising waters.
What to Expect in the Coming Days
Although the current flooding is classified as minor, residents should remain alert, as conditions may change with additional rainfall. This marks the second rise in the Noxubee River in as many weeks, signaling that the ground is saturated, and runoff risks could increase with any new rainfall.
The National Weather Service is set to issue an official update at 2:30 p.m. CDT Wednesday, with additional warnings possible if conditions worsen.
While the flooding in Macon is currently considered minor, the situation is ongoing, and drivers should be cautious. Stay informed with updates from the National Weather Service, and avoid traveling through flooded areas.
