Macon's Amerson park, river walk remain closed as Ocmulgee recedes

After torrents of rain sent the Ocmulgee River out of its banks in Macon, water levels are dropping from the river's seventh-highest historical crest.

Amerson River Park and the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail remain closed until the river returns to a safe level, and crews are able to assess any damage, make needed repairs and clean the area, according to a news release.

The Ocmulgee dropped from a crest of 27.77 feet at 5:30 a.m. Sunday, but it could be next week before the river is below flood stage of 18 feet.

The river reached a record 35.4 feet during the Flood of 1994.

There is still significant flooding in the park and along the trail, so the Bibb County Sheriff's Office will be patrolling and asking people to avoid those areas. The Walker Road Landfill has cleared up enough that it was able to reopen to the public Monday, the release said.

According to the National Weather Service, more rain is expected through Thursday morning, which could slow the rapid downward trend and possibly raise the level slightly, the release said.

With the ground already saturated from the past week's weather, there is the chance of wind knocking down trees.

To notify Macon-Bibb County of debris on a road or fallen trees, or to request other storm-related services, call the E-911 Center at 751-7500. If it is an emergency situation, dial 911.

For weather and flood related updates, follow the Macon-Bibb Emergency Management Agency on Facebook and visit macon.com.

This story was originally published December 28, 2015 at 5:13 PM with the headline "Macon's Amerson park, river walk remain closed as Ocmulgee recedes ."