PITTSBURGH -- Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl has declared a state of emergency in anticipation for likely flooding expected to hit Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas in the coming days.

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On Channel 11 News at 5 p.m., Scott Harbaugh will detail when and where flooding is expected to his this weekend.
VIDEO: Flood Threat Continues; Mayor Declares State Of Emergency

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Ravenstahl called a meeting with the City Council on Wednesday to address the threat of potential flooding this weekend.

During the meeting, Ravenstahl used graphics to illustrate how much snow is still on the ground from the recent record storms and showed maps of city neighborhoods that are at risk for flooding. Ravenstahl also discussed the city's plan to handle flooding.

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ALLEGHENY COUNTY: Flood Preparedness
MAP: Interactive Pittsburgh Floodway Map
ALERT: Sign Up For Pittsburgh Flood Alerts
EMERGENCY KIT: How To Prepare A 72-Hour Kit
TIPS: Protect Your Home
PDF: Flood Safety Preparation
SANDBAG: How To Properly Sandbag

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Heavy rain showers are expected over the weekend with more than an inch possible by Sunday, officials said.

The rain is causing major flooding concerns and could lead to water levels comparable to the aftermath of Hurricane Ivan on the Monongahela and Ohio Rivers.

The city is taking steps to prepare for any flooding. Those steps include ensuring that garbage cans and light poles are securely bolted. The city will also keep an eye on riverside electrical systems.

"That's great,” said Bob Mikita, who was out running Wednesday along the Mon Wharf. “They could maybe lessen the damage and everything if they are putting stuff in place for the possibility for that to happen. It's better than them doing nothing."

According to the National Weather Service, the risk of flooding is high thanks to record snowfall last month and the amount of rain the region is expecting in the upcoming days.

Flooding risks are greater in areas with small creeks and streams.

Thursday is expected to be a big snow melting day, with heavy rains coming in spurts Friday and Saturday, NWS officials said.

On Tuesday, local leaders met with the NWS and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to discuss possible flooding. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers said it has been drawing down the reservoirs to free up room for melting snow and thousands of sandbags have been ordered to place strategically across local areas.

“We want to make sure nobody loses a life. We want to minimize the pain and suffering of the residents and the people we serve out there,” said Bob Full, Allegheny County Emergency Management chief.

City and Allegheny County leaders urge Pittsburgh area residents to be prepared for the worst.

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