Wheeling Island Stadium under water, casino closed due to high

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WHEELING, W.Va. (WTRF) - Wheeling Island Stadium is under water, and the casino has shut down for the weekend as the Ohio River continues to rise. 

Flood stage is 36 ft., and Wheeling will see the river at 39.9 ft. before it is all said and done. 

One resident on South Penn Street says it is a little scary to see the water creeping up the road.

"I don't think we're going to get it up there unless it goes really high, but the basement is going to get it. You know, if I have to go to work, I don't want to walk in this mess. You don't know what's in there," said Jean Fortin. 

There are several roads closed on the Island, including South Front and South Wabash Streets. 

Roads south of Ohio Street are closed to spectators but can be used by residents.

Although high water is an interesting sight to see, officials are asking spectators to stay away even as those waters begin to recede.

"We want this event to be as safe as possible for not only the residents, but the first responders. There are police over there. Any type of medical emergency or fire department emergency, those guys are going to be responding to it. We want to keep every body safe," said Ohio County EMA Director Lou Vargo. 

Vargo says due to the dropping temperatures, they are encouraging people to stay out of the water.

Being cold and wet could result in hypothermia. 

The water is also full of debris--another reason to stay away.

Vargo says if you do go into flood water, you should get a tetanus shot if you have not had one in the last ten years. 

South and Central Wheeling are also seeing areas with high water. If you are driving there, make sure to look for road closure signs.

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