Mississippi and Illinois Rivers Begin Predicted Decline

ALTON/GRAFTON/HARDIN - As previously predicted, the Mississippi River and Illinois River levels are dropping.

Grafton Ferry officials said it will resume operations Sunday, May 3, 2026, after being closed since the middle of last week because high water affected the Missouri-side landing in St. Charles County, Mo. However, river levels along the Mississippi and Illinois rivers were forecast to fall, according to recent reports citing the National Water Prediction Service.

Flood warnings for area locations in Alton, Grafton, and Hardin were issued last week.

At noon Sunday, May 3, the Mississippi River level at Melvin Price Lock and Dam in Alton was projected at 21.4 feet, and was listed at a moderate flood level. It was forecast to drop to 20.4 feet on Monday, May 4, and 18.3 feet by Tuesday, May 5, 2026, according to the National Water Prediction Service.

Separate National Water Prediction Service river-stage information for Grafton listed the river at 21.10 feet on Sunday, May 3, 2026, dropping to 20.03 feet on Monday, May 4, 2026, and 18.8 feet on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.

The Illinois River at Hardin stood at 27.6 feet on Sunday, May 3, and was forecast to drop to 27 feet on Monday, May 4. Illinois River levels at Hardin are projected to continue to drop next week.

Hours listed for the Grafton Ferry are: Monday through Thursday, 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

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