Indiana and Ohio – Drivers along the Ohio River and its tributaries should prepare now as repeated rounds of heavy rain beginning Monday threaten to push rivers toward flood stage through March 11.
According to the National Weather Service Ohio River Forecast Center, 2 to 5 inches of rain are expected across much of Indiana and Ohio over the next seven days, with locally higher totals exceeding 7 inches. The heaviest rainfall is expected across southern Indiana into central and southern Ohio, increasing runoff into already elevated waterways.
In Indiana, river gauges along the Ohio River near Evansville and Lawrenceburg, as well as the White River basin near Bloomington and Spencer, are projected to rise steadily by midweek. Some points could reach action stage or minor flood stage as early as Wednesday.
Across Ohio, the Scioto, Great Miami and Muskingum rivers will see noticeable rises beginning Wednesday, with scattered minor flooding possible late this week into early next week. Low-lying roads and flood-prone neighborhoods near Cincinnati, Portsmouth and Columbus face the greatest risk if heavier bands set up repeatedly.
Residents should clear storm drains, avoid water-covered roadways and monitor local emergency management alerts. Additional flood watches or warnings may be issued as rainfall totals become clearer through March 11.
