Paducah, KY – A prolonged severe weather system is expected to dump up to 15 inches of rain across Western Kentucky and Southern Illinois, triggering a significant flash flood emergency beginning Wednesday afternoon and continuing through Saturday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, a stalled frontal boundary will bring multiple rounds of heavy rain and thunderstorms to the Quad State region—including parts of Missouri and Indiana—starting late Wednesday. The heaviest rainfall is forecast between Wednesday afternoon and Friday evening, with peak thunderstorm activity likely Wednesday from 3 to 11 p.m.
Rainfall totals between 10 and 15 inches are projected in areas such as Paducah, Cape Girardeau, Marion, and Poplar Bluff, with some isolated higher amounts possible. The National Weather Service warns that this could result in “significant and potentially life-threatening flash flooding,” especially in areas that do not typically flood.
Residents are urged to clear drains, review evacuation routes, and prepare to move to higher ground quickly. River flooding is also likely along major waterways due to runoff.
Travel is expected to be hazardous, and flash flood warnings could be issued rapidly. Officials recommend closely monitoring weather alerts and being ready to act immediately if flooding begins.
