Communities Brace for Flooding as Rain Swells Meramec River

FENTON, Mo. (First Alert 4) - Communities along the Meramec River are preparing for flooding in the days ahead as heavy rain moves into the area.

At Brookdale Farms in Eureka, manager James Vavak and his staff have been moving quickly to safeguard equipment and supplies. The farm, located in between the Meramec and Big Rivers, was hit hard during flooding in November 2024 as well.

“We don’t want to take any chances. We prepare for the worst and hope for the best,” Vavak said.

Last fall’s flood caused extensive damage to the property and delayed the opening of “Light Cycles,” a popular holiday light show. The cleanup effort stretched into early spring.

“We had just finished the cleanup effort just a couple weeks ago, even up to last week getting everything ready here at the farm,” Vavak said.

Now, with more rain in the forecast, the team is once again relocating expensive lighting displays to higher ground.

“The water where I’m standing would have been at my feet in November. If the forecast holds true it’ll be at my neck,” Vavak said.

First responders in the area are also preparing. Eureka Fire Chief Scott Barthelmess said past flooding near Brookdale Farms and along Interstate 44 has led to dangerous rescue situations.

“We’ve had in the past where people have been stuck in their cars on I-44 and other roadways. That puts people in peril and my people in peril,” he said.

While speaking with First Alert 4, Barthelmess responded to a crash on I-44 where a driver lost control after hitting a puddle.

“That’s definitely something to watch out for. It’s definitely something to worry about on the roadway or a side street,” he said afterward

In Fenton, most homes and businesses are outside the flood plain along the Meramec, but Mayor Joe Maurath said the city is monitoring river levels and preparing for possible road closures.

“This is more of a nuisance for us. Our job is to keep everybody safe,” Maurath said. “If you see high water don’t drive through it. It’s not worth it.”

With more rain expected this week, Vavak said the team at Brookdale Farms is better prepared than last time.

“Hopefully no buildings will be destroyed and we’ll be safe out here,” he said.

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