Residents across a large portion of central, east central, north central, south central, southeast and west central Indiana are being urged to remain alert as a Flood Watch remains in effect through Thursday evening, with the threat of flash flooding continuing due to excessive rainfall.
According to the advisory, flooding is already occurring in some locations, and additional rounds of rain are expected through Thursday night. The combination of saturated ground and additional rainfall could lead to rapid rises in creeks, streams and rivers, as well as flooding in low-lying and traditionally flood-prone areas.
Flash flooding remains possible
The primary concern is excessive runoff and flash flooding. Areas that have already received significant rainfall may have difficulty absorbing additional water, increasing the potential for water to collect quickly on roads, in fields and in drainage areas.
Residents should be especially cautious near waterways and other locations that have experienced flooding in the past. Even areas that do not typically flood can become hazardous when rainfall is heavy or persistent.
Counties under the Flood Watch
The advisory covers a wide area of Indiana, including:
Central Indiana: Bartholomew, Boone, Clinton, Decatur, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Howard, Johnson, Madison, Marion, Morgan, Rush, Shelby and Tipton.
East Central Indiana: Delaware, Henry and Randolph.
North Central Indiana: Carroll.
South Central Indiana: Brown.
Southeast Indiana: Jennings.
West Central Indiana: Fountain, Montgomery, Parke, Putnam, Tippecanoe, Vermillion and Warren.
Communities throughout these counties should continue monitoring weather conditions and be prepared for changing conditions as additional rain moves through the region.
Drivers urged to use caution
Flooding can make roadways dangerous, particularly at night when standing water may be difficult to see. Drivers should never attempt to cross a flooded roadway. Water can be deeper and moving faster than it appears, and floodwaters can conceal washed-out pavement or other hazards.
Officials also encourage residents to monitor weather alerts and be prepared to move to higher ground if flooding develops near their homes or communities.
More rain could worsen existing flooding
The ongoing nature of the flooding is an important concern. With more rain expected through Thursday night, additional rainfall could worsen conditions in areas that are already experiencing high water.
Residents in flood-prone areas should keep an eye on nearby streams, creeks and rivers and take precautions before conditions deteriorate. Those with outdoor plans should also be prepared for rapidly changing weather and possible travel disruptions.
The National Weather Service advises the public to remain aware of updated forecasts and warnings. For information about flood safety, residents can consult the National Weather Service flood safety information
Southeast Indiana: Jennings.
West Central Indiana: Fountain, Montgomery, Parke, Putnam, Tippecanoe, Vermillion and Warren.
Communities throughout these counties should continue monitoring weather conditions and be prepared for changing conditions as additional rain moves through the region.
Drivers urged to use caution
Flooding can make roadways dangerous, particularly at night when standing water may be difficult to see. Drivers should never attempt to cross a flooded roadway. Water can be deeper and moving faster than it appears, and floodwaters can conceal washed-out pavement or other hazards.
Officials also encourage residents to monitor weather alerts and be prepared to move to higher ground if flooding develops near their homes or communities.
More rain could worsen existing flooding
The ongoing nature of the flooding is an important concern. With more rain expected through Thursday night, additional rainfall could worsen conditions in areas that are already experiencing high water.
Residents in flood-prone areas should keep an eye on nearby streams, creeks and rivers and take precautions before conditions deteriorate. Those with outdoor plans should also be prepared for rapidly changing weather and possible travel disruptions.
The National Weather Service advises the public to remain aware of updated forecasts and warnings. For information about flood safety, residents can consult the National Weather Service flood safety information