GOSEHEN, Ind. -- The City of Goshen is cautioning residents about a flood risk this weekend due to rising Elkhart River levels.

City officials are monitoring conditions closely as rainfall across northern Indiana is increasing water levels in the Elkhart River and connected waterways.

Officials say forecasts from the National Weather Service show the river could reach Minor Flood Stage by Saturday morning.

City officials say the river is expected to crest between Sunday afternoon and Monday morning at around 7.8 feet, depending on rainfall totals.

Low-lying areas across Goshen may experience flooding if water levels rise as projected, officials said.

Areas of concern if river reaches 7 to 9 feet include:

• Mullet Park, Shanklin Park, and W. Waverly Avenue
• Trinity Square Shopping Center parking lot
• Chicago Avenue (floodwaters at edge at 8.43 feet; underwater at 8.62 feet)
• Rogers Park and Linway Pond Oakridge Park and Creekside Estates Mobile Home Park near Rock Run Creek
• Kercher Road near Lateral K Ditch (overflow begins at 8.43 feet)

Flood safety tips:

• Never walk or drive through floodwater.
• Avoid low-lying areas, especially near rivers, streams, and ditches.
• Move valuable items to higher ground if your home is in a flood-prone area.
• Keep children and pets away from fast-moving or standing water.
• Prepare an emergency kit and review your household emergency plan.

Officials say residents may help reduce localized flooding by clearing leaves and debris from storm drains near their homes.

If a storm drain is blocked or unsafe to access, you should contact the Goshen Street Department at 574-534-9711.

Anyone experiencing a flash flood emergency should call 911 immediately.

Flood safety resources and zone maps are available online.