NATCHEZ — The Mississippi River at Natchez currently sits at 53.74 feet.

It is expected to reach 53.8 by the end of the day.

The river is still predicted to crest at 64 feet on May 22.

Water has not yet reached the Vidalia Riverfront. Crews did begin work this morning to begin placing Hesco Bastion instant levees around Riverpark Medical Center.

Louisiana Department of Corrections officials, local sheriffs and officials met this morning to discuss public safety and said a plan is in place if prisons need to be evacuated.

Fifth District Levee Board President Reynold Minsky attended the meeting and said all levees continue to look strong. He said the biggest worry for the board is unknown sand boils, which the board is constantly working to find.

Water is seeping through sandbags at the lowest point on Silver Street in Natchez. Pumps are being used to pump water back into the river in hopes of keeping the street clear.

Until flood worries wane, The Natchez Democrat will post daily river updates at noon and 5 p.m. Breaking news and other alerts will be posted throughout the day, as available.