Article: Optimism rising in La Crosse; Flooding: River is expected to crest at 'only' 16.5 feet

LA CROSSE (AP) - People driven from their homes along the surging Mississippi River, including a U.S. congressman, got some good news Tuesday: The river won't rise as high as predicted.

The National Weather Service said the river would reach its highest point early today at 16.5 feet at La Crosse instead of 17 feet because of lower levels of tributaries upstream, meteorologist Randy Breeser said.

"It is certainly a relief," said Pat Caffrey, La Crosse director of public works. "When we reach this stage, a half a foot means a big difference."

Once the river has crested, it's not known how long it will take to recede, said Al Spaulding, La Crosse County's emergency director.

"There is still a ...

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