Voluntary evacuations have been announced for residents in Dakota Dunes, South Dakota, as river levels continue to rise. The announcement came from Union County Emergency Management on Sunday morning, urging residents near the river to voluntarily evacuate within the next 24 hours. In the event of a major breach or overtopping of the Dunes protection, a mandatory evacuation will be ordered.

To combat the potential devastation, officials are also requesting residents to minimize their sanitary sewer use, turn off lawn irrigation systems, and check their sump pumps. These precautionary measures aim to mitigate the impact of any flooding that may occur.

The crest predictions for the Missouri River and the Big Sioux River, both surrounding the Dakota Dunes neighborhood, indicate that their peak levels are expected to be reached early on Tuesday. Currently, the Missouri River stands at 22.64 feet, with a projected crest of 31.40 feet. Meanwhile, the Big Sioux River is at 31.16 feet and anticipated to crest at a height of 41 feet.

Located in close proximity to the rivers, the Dakota Dunes neighborhood has previously experienced flooding in past years, including the historic floods of 2011. These memories serve as a poignant reminder of the potential dangers and the need for proactive measures to protect residents and their properties.

In response to the evolving situation, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem is expected to visit Dakota Dunes and convene a news conference later on Sunday. The governor's presence and address will shed light on the latest developments and provide guidance to the community.

Residents and concerned individuals can tune into KTIV's Facebook page to stream the live news conference, offering vital information and updates on the ongoing situation.

As the situation progresses and river levels continue to rise, the safety and well-being of Dakota Dunes residents remain a top priority. Through the implementation of voluntary evacuations and proactive measures, local authorities are working diligently to protect the community from the potential impact of the rising rivers.