Columbus, Ohio – River levels across western Ohio may rise above flood stage this week as repeated rounds of heavy rain and thunderstorms move in starting Monday.
According to the National Weather Service Ohio River Forecast Center, the region could see several inches of rainfall through Friday, May 23, with the heaviest totals expected in western counties like Allen, Auglaize, and Darke. Rivers in these areas may reach or exceed minor flood stage by midweek, with localized flooding possible in low-lying areas.
A 5-day precipitation map shows widespread rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches across the Ohio River Basin, particularly affecting parts of southwestern Ohio near Dayton and along the Scioto and Great Miami Rivers. Flood-prone areas like Findlay and Lima should monitor updates closely, especially as soils are already saturated from recent showers.
Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roadways and check river gauges along U.S. Route 33, I-75, and smaller county roads that typically flood first. Residents near flood-prone creeks or rivers should prepare now by securing valuables and having a backup power source.
Flood advisories may be issued with little notice. The threat continues through next weekend as additional storms are possible.
