The flood gates to Cheney Lake will soon be opened due to rising water levels caused by flooding.
A news release from Sedgwick County says that starting at 6 a.m. on Wednesday morning, the gates will be opened gradually until they are completely opened by afternoon. Even with the release, the lake is still expected to reach a record height of 1,430.5 feet.
The released water will run through a 15 mile section along the north fork of the Ninnescah River until it meets the south fork. The water capacity in this channel will flow at approximately 2.8 times the normal rate and is expected to overflow by 8 a.m. on Wedensday. The extent of flooding in the north branch is currently undetermined.
Residents in areas along the river that are prone to flooding should take proper precautions now and be prepared to evacuate to higher ground if necessary.
(Read more: KAKE – News)