ST. LOUIS (AP)

Residents of areas hit hard by flooding in eastern Missouri are getting some good news: River levels are dropping, some evacuated residents can return home and a busy interstate is reopening.

Water levels along the Meramec River on Thursday prompted the mayor of Valley Park to lift evacuation orders for levee-protected areas effective at 8 a.m. Friday.

But authorities warn that returning home and business owners may encounter hazards, such as raw sewage and damaged electrical equipment.