(AP) — Minor flooding is likely in central Nebraska this week as the Platte River continues to swell with water from Colorado.

The floodwaters have caused problems all along the South Platte River in Nebraska since last week.

Now the National Weather Service is warning people who live near the Platte River in Cozad, Kearney, Grand Island and other communities downstream to prepare for possible flooding.

Experts are also urging everyone to avoid contact with the floodwaters which are contaminated and may carry dangerous debris.

And once the river rises, it will likely remain high for at least a day or two before receding.

The Platte River will begin rising at Overton overnight and at Elm Creek early Monday. The floodwaters will reach Kearney Monday evening.