8:45 a.m. update on conditions in Dubuque

Since 7 p.m. last evening, City staff were monitoring the storm throughout the night and responding to calls for assistance and at 1:30 a.m. the City's emergency operations center was activated .

Staff have been monitoring streets, sewer systems, street flooding, and river levels and have received reports of rainfall as high as 14.33 inches for a 12-hour period beginning at 6 p.m. last night. The previous 24-hour rainfall record for this date was 6.17 inches. All but a few city streets were reopened by 7 a.m. this morning. Most streets and roadways are now passable, however, residents should still drive with care as debris is cleared and displaced manhole covers are put back in place. City crews are currently out assessing the damage and responding to conditions. Residents are encouraged to visit the City of Dubuque website for information and number to call to report conditions. Also on the website is information and tips on what to do to clean up flood damage in their home.

Travel in some parts of Dubuque may be limited due to open manholes, downed power lines, and debris on the roadway, and stormwater in the streets of South Main Street, Railroad Avenue, and the Harrison Street area. North Cascade Road is closed because the bridge is closed. If residents see a manhole cover that is out of place, please contact the Public Works Department at 563-589-4250.

The Julien Dubuque/US 20 Bridge remains closed due to street flooding in East Dubuque, Illinois. Some exit ramps off of highways 151/61 are currently closed.

Residents experiencing basement flooding should practice extreme caution because basement walls can collapse under these circumstances. The City, in partnership with the American Red Cross of the Tri-States, has opened Information/Assistance Centers at the Prescott Elementary Neighborhood Resource Center at 1151 White Street at Five Flags Civic Center at 405 Main Street for residents displaced by flood damage. The phone number for the assistance center is 563-552-4178. The Jule public transit will be operating a special shuttle from Comiskey Park to both centers for residents needing transportation to the centers. In addition residents needing other assistance are encouraged to call Project Concern's Information line by dialing 211.

At this time, residents requesting a pumpout for their basement can call the non-emergency dispatch phone number at 563-589-4415. A list is being compiled and City staff will pump out basements as soon as they are able. The City is waiving the fee for this service.

Residents may set out flood-damaged materials for curbside collection on their normal collection day at no extra charge through Friday, Aug. 5. Large items will require a special appointment (also at no charge). Call 563-589-4250 to schedule a large-item collection.

Dubuque Mayor Roy D. Buol has requested a state and federal disaster declaration.