NE Kan. lakes see increased water levels after recent rain

VASSAR (KSNT) - Heavy rain from the last couple of weeks has caused a spike in lake water levels.

Many attractions and facilities are closed at many lakes across northeast Kansas. This includes the sand beach at Pomona Lake, which is currently closed.

"One thing that is nice about Pomona is that their facilities and camp sites are close to the water, but in a flood event they are also the first to go under water." said Scott Rice, Operations Manager for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Melvern and Pomona Lakes.

Pomona is just one of many lakes in northeast Kansas facing high water-level issues. At Perry Lake boat ramps, swim beaches and campsites are all closed due to flooding. The lake currently sits 12 feet over normal levels.

“Well, there are less people who come obviously because they know the waters high. And they get out here and say, “well no place to launch.” So, they have to turn around or find a place or go home, whichever.” said Mike Stanley the Store Manager at Perry Lake Marina.

There are plans in place to start emptying both Melvern and Pomona Lakes.

"Both of those lakes both empty into the Marais des Cygnes River. That goes down stream and ultimately goes into Truman Reservoir down in Missouri." Rice said.

Perry Lake may take longer to lower. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers told KSNT 27 News that they cannot release any water due to risk of flooding the Missouri River.

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