NILES — As the St. Joseph River begins to recede, the city of Niles is continuing to remind people not to go near or enter the flood waters.

Flooding models indicate that the St. Joseph River will still be at major flood levels through the middle of this week and minor levels by the end.

City officials urged everyone to use extreme caution around floodwaters. Floodwaters conceal hazards and are often deep with swift currents. Floodwaters also contain contaminates and debris which can be dangerous and harmful to a person’s health. People should not approach downed powerlines, flood debris or other potentially dangerous obstacles.

As of Thursday, City crews identified 46 homes and nine commercial structures that took on floodwater. Streets impacted include Marmont, Phoenix, Front, River, Parkway, Bond, Second and Third streets between Ferry and Eagle streets. Affected areas also include Riverfront Park between the YMCA and Fort Street, the city’s waste water plant which continues to operate at full capacity and the city’s bus system, the Dial-A-Ride, which is temporarily operating out of city’s law enforcement complex.

City residents are asked to take caution near barricaded roads. City engineers are inspecting the roads for structural damage that could cause the roads to collapse. This process may take seven to 14 days, as it is important that roads are carefully inspected for the safety of the community and travelers.

City officials also reported that the IN-MI River Valley Trail that runs through Niles remains flooded in most areas and is not safe for use. People are asked to find an alternative walking routes and stay off of the trail near the St. Joseph River until further notice.

Anyone that observes damage to a road in the flood zone or other municipal infrastructure is asked to please call the city of Niles and report their observations.