Flood Warnings & Advisories issued for the Illinois River; GRDA shuts down floating for the weekend

If you're planning to spend time near the Illinois River this weekend, be aware that rising water levels have prompted several flood alerts from the National Weather Service in Tulsa.

Due to rising waters on the Illinois River, the Grand River Dam Authority (GRDA) has closed floating this weekend in Oklahoma. Multiple floating companies have posted about the closure, including All American Floats, Diamondhead Resort and Eagle Bluff Resort & Campground.

Illinois River timelapse video HERE.

"We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused, but the river levels will not be safe for floating," All American Floats shared.

>>> Lake Levels

Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening and where:

Illinois River near Watts (Adair & Delaware Counties)

1. Flood Warning in effect from Friday afternoon through late tonight
2. The river is expected to crest at 13.9 feet this evening. Flood stage is 13.0 feet.
3. Minor flooding is forecast from the Arkansas border to near Fidler’s Bend.
4. Strong currents and high water levels will make the river unsafe for floating.

Illinois River near Tahlequah (Cherokee County)

1. Flood Warning in effect from late Friday night through early Sunday morning
2. The river is expected to rise above flood stage (11.0 feet) just after midnight, with a crest near 12.0 feet by Saturday afternoon.
3. Minor flooding is expected from near Hanging Rock downstream toward Tahlequah.
4. Floating is considered hazardous due to strong turbulence and elevated water levels.

Illinois River at Chewey (Cherokee, Adair & Delaware Counties)

1. Flood Advisory in effect from Friday morning through early Sunday
2. At 7:15 a.m. Friday, the river was at 8.6 feet and is expected to crest at 11.7 feet just after midnight.
3. While flood stage at Chewey is 12.0 feet, river activities are discouraged once the river reaches 9.0 feet due to dangerous currents.
4. Minor flooding may occur from near Fidler’s Bend to Hanging Rock. Some roads, including areas near Chewey Bridge and 630 Road east of the Cherokee/Adair County line, could become impacted.

What You Should Do

1. If you have a float trip planned, call your provider for more information. Typically, these forecast water levels prevent floating on most of the Illinois River.
2. If you're camping or live near the river, stay alert and prepare to move to higher ground if necessary.
3. Keep checking for updates from the National Weather Service and local emergency officials.

For the latest information on river levels and flood safety, visit weather.gov/safety/flood.

Water levels are expected to peak between Friday evening and early Saturday, with conditions improving later in the weekend. Stay safe and check conditions before heading to the river.