St. Louis, Missouri – Heavy rain is set to impact parts of Illinois and northeast Missouri starting Sunday afternoon, with a Flood Watch in effect for nearly two dozen counties through Monday. The National Weather Service in St. Louis has issued the alert, warning of flash flooding risks due to multiple rounds of thunderstorms expected to bring intense rainfall to the region.
Flood Watch and Thunderstorm Risks
According to the National Weather Service, thunderstorms will begin early Sunday morning, starting at 2 a.m. in west-central Illinois and northeast Missouri. By 5 p.m. Sunday, the flood watch will expand to additional areas. Cities like Edwardsville, Quincy, Hannibal, and Mount Sterling are at risk for intense rainfall, with some areas expecting 2 to 4 inches of rain, which could quickly lead to flash flooding.
Low-lying roads, urban neighborhoods with poor drainage, and small creeks are particularly vulnerable to flooding, especially in areas where storms repeatedly pass over the same locations. Counties such as Adams, Pike, Greene, Fayette, Clinton, and Marion, among others, are at high risk for these conditions.
Safety Precautions for Residents
Residents are urged to avoid driving through water-covered streets, as flash floods can cause road closures and dangerous conditions. It’s important to keep cellphones charged, secure outdoor items, and stay updated by monitoring local weather alerts throughout the day. Given the moisture-rich air fueling these storms, the potential for repeat downpours increases the flood risk.
Extended Flood Risk Through Monday
The Flood Watch remains in effect until at least 1 p.m. Monday, and depending on rainfall totals, additional warnings or advisories may be issued. If rainfall totals exceed 2 to 4 inches in some areas, flooding could be more widespread, and travel may become even more hazardous.
Be Prepared for Flash Flooding
As the storm system continues to develop, residents in the affected areas should be ready to act quickly. It’s crucial to stay informed and take the necessary precautions to stay safe as this weather system unfolds.
