Effingham, IL – Heavy rain is expected to drench portions of eastern and southeastern Illinois starting Wednesday afternoon, prompting the National Weather Service to issue a Flood Watch through Sunday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, rainfall totals could exceed 5 inches between Wednesday and early Sunday across counties including Clark, Cumberland, Clay, Crawford, Effingham, Jasper, Lawrence, and Richland. The excessive rainfall may cause rivers, streams, and low-lying areas to flood, especially in flood-prone locations like Robinson, Newton, Flora, and Marshall.
Multiple rounds of rainfall are forecast during the watch period, increasing the risk of significant river flooding. Emergency officials urge residents to stay alert for potential Flood Warnings as the situation develops. Local rivers and creeks, especially those near Effingham and Lawrenceville, may quickly rise beyond their banks as runoff builds.
Residents in flood-prone areas should prepare now. Move valuables to higher ground, avoid driving across water-covered roads, and monitor local forecasts. The threat extends through Sunday morning, with rain expected to fall in waves starting Wednesday afternoon.
