Paducah, Kentucky – Roads near the Missouri-Illinois-Kentucky tri-state could flood within hours as slow-moving thunderstorms redevelop along the Ohio and Mississippi rivers during the afternoon and evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service, a marginal risk of flash flooding remains in effect through Wednesday night for southeast Missouri, southern Illinois and western Kentucky. Storms may produce 1 to 2 inches of rain in a short window, especially where cells repeatedly track over the same river counties.
Communities including Cape Girardeau, Carbondale, Metropolis and Paducah face the highest risk for rapid runoff. Low-lying roads near the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi rivers are vulnerable, along with stretches of Interstate 24, Interstate 57 and U.S. Route 60. Urban drainage systems in downtown Paducah and surrounding neighborhoods could become overwhelmed if rainfall rates intensify during peak travel times. Smaller creeks and tributaries may rise quickly with repeated downpours.
Drivers should avoid water-covered roads, reduce speed in heavy rain and never cross barricades. Even shallow moving water can sweep a vehicle off the roadway.
Additional advisories may be issued if storms continue redeveloping across the Missouri-Illinois-Kentucky border region through Wednesday night.
