Osage City, Kansas – Drivers across Coffey and southern Osage counties could face rapidly rising water and road closures this afternoon as a Flash Flood Warning remains in effect until 5 p.m. Tuesday. Thunderstorms have already dumped up to 2 inches of rain, with another 1 to 3 inches expected, increasing the threat for flash flooding across low-lying areas and major routes.
According to the National Weather Service in Topeka, Doppler radar and automated rain gauges confirmed heavy rainfall over the region by 12:22 p.m. Flash flooding is either ongoing or imminent in areas including Osage City, Burlington, and surrounding towns such as Lyndon, Waverly, and Lebo.
Interstate 35 between mile markers 144 and 167 is part of the warning zone. Water may rise quickly over highways, underpasses, and rural roads, especially near Melvern Lake, John Redmond Reservoir, and Pomona Lake.
Residents are urged to avoid driving through floodwaters and remain alert for updated warnings. “Turn around, don’t drown” remains critical guidance during this active flood threat.
Warnings remain in effect through 5 p.m. Tuesday, with additional advisories possible if storms persist into the evening.
