Robinson, Illinois – Drivers across Crawford and Lawrence counties should avoid flooded roads and underpasses as flash flooding unfolds this evening, with heavy rain pushing small creeks and city streets toward overflow.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, intense thunderstorms have dumped between 1.5 and 3.5 inches of rain across the region as of late Monday afternoon. Rainfall rates are expected to reach up to two inches per hour through tonight, raising the risk for dangerous flooding of low-lying areas, rural highways, and city intersections.
Law enforcement and emergency managers urge residents to stay alert for rapidly rising water, especially on Route 1, U.S. 50, and in flood-prone neighborhoods of Robinson and Lawrenceville. Power outages and road closures remain possible as water covers pavement and swells over small bridges. Anyone seeing high water should turn around rather than attempt to cross—most flood deaths occur in vehicles.
Flash flooding is likely to continue through at least 7:45 p.m., and additional warnings may be issued if storms redevelop or move slowly over the same area.
