Coast Guard urges caution over high water along Illinois River

May 12-BEARDTOWN - The U.S. Coast Guard is urging boaters and towboat operators to use caution navigating the Illinois River because of high water.

A flood warning remains in effect for the river in Cass, Brown, Schuyler and Morgan counties. While river levels continue to fall, the Illinois River was at 14.4 feet Tuesday at Beardstown. Flood stage there is 14 feet.

The warning also covers the river at Havana and in Mason and Fulton counties. The water level at Havana was 13.5 feet on Tuesday; minor flood stage is 14 feet.

The Coast Guard said only operators with high-water experience should operate during this time. Vessels should minimize wake where possible, remain vigilant of debris, and take precautions to help prevent any breakaways from occurring.

Caution is also urged during passing and meeting situations, as well as around bridges, where there may be decreased clearance and buoys that may have been dragged out of place, according to the Coast Guard.

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