SkyNews6 Shows Devastation Of Illinois River Flooding

NewsOn6.com

TAHLEQUAH, Oklahoma -- SkyNews6 flew over the swollen Illinois River Tuesday and captured images of extensive damage to businesses and homes near Tahlequah.

The murky Illinois River crested its shores, rising above 16 feet above flood stage in Watts and nearly 15 feet above flood stage in Tahlequah.

Muddy waters have spilled over Highway 10 and 64, closing that stretch along the river and flooding a Tahlequah outfitter.

Float-trip operators are sandbagging cabins and hauling canoes, rafts and other equipment out of the water as the storm system that's been blamed for two deaths in Oklahoma continues to dump rain on the area.

Flood waters surround homes and barns in the area.  The water is so deep only the rooftops of some homes in the area are visible.

Cherokee County emergency management officials will assess damage in the region to see if the county will qualify for federal help from FEMA. 

4/25/2011 Related Story: Illinois River Businesses Bracing For Worst After Cherokee County Flooding