Springfield, MO – The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an extended Flood Watch for multiple rivers across Missouri, urging residents in affected areas to prepare for potential flooding. The watch, which began Thursday morning, will remain in effect through the weekend, covering a range of counties, including Pulaski, Laclede, Stone, Christian, and Phelps.
The watch impacts several rivers, including the Gasconade River at Hazelgreen, the Current River near Powder Mill, the Big Piney River below Fort Leonard Wood, and the James River near Boaz, among others. The NWS warns that river stages could rise rapidly, reaching flood levels by Saturday afternoon. The Gasconade River at Jerome and the James River at Galena are expected to approach or surpass flood stage over the weekend, with potential significant impacts in low-lying areas.
Key Locations Affected:
- Gasconade River at Hazelgreen: Flooding is possible in Pulaski and Laclede Counties, especially near the river’s gage site.
- Current River near Powder Mill: Shannon County could see floodwaters reach flood stage starting late Friday.
- Big Piney River below Fort Leonard Wood – East Gate: Fort Leonard Wood is on alert for potential flooding by Friday evening.
- Jacks Fork at Eminence: The river near Eminence in Shannon County could flood low-lying areas over the weekend.
- James River near Boaz: Rising waters may impact Stone and Christian Counties starting Saturday afternoon.
Rising Waters Expected to Impact Local Communities
Residents near these rivers are urged to be vigilant, especially in areas where flooding could disrupt daily activities. In particular, the Current River and Jacks Fork River, which have seen higher-than-usual water levels this spring, pose risks to recreational areas and local roads.
Flooding in the James River near Galena could impact recreational sites like Shoal Canoe Rental, which is located near the river’s gage site. Floodwaters could also cause backwater effects at Railey Creek, further compounding the risks in the area.
Precautionary Measures and Alerts
The National Weather Service advises residents to monitor local conditions closely, especially in flood-prone areas. Drivers should avoid traveling through flooded roads, as conditions can change quickly. Communities along these rivers are reminded to stay informed through weather alerts and to take necessary precautions, including securing property in flood-prone areas and avoiding recreational activities near riverbanks.
The NWS will continue to issue updates on the flood situation, with the next report expected at 10:45 AM CDT. Residents are encouraged to visit the NWS website at www.weather.gov for additional safety information and updates.
Additional Flood Warnings in Missouri
This Flood Watch follows earlier warnings across other parts of the state. The watch has been extended through Monday evening for several areas, including a new watch for the Gasconade River at Hazelgreen, expected to reach flood stage by Saturday evening. The NWS is also monitoring flood conditions on Roubidoux Creek near Waynesville, which could impact local roads and RV parks near the creek.
Local emergency management agencies have been coordinating response efforts, ensuring resources are available for flood preparedness. The public is urged to take all flood warnings seriously, as floodwaters can pose significant risks to life and property.
In addition to the Flood Watch, residents are reminded to remain cautious as heavy rain and runoff could further exacerbate rising river levels in the coming days. Local authorities are continuously monitoring the situation, and further updates will be provided as necessary.
For more details on flood safety, visit www.weather.gov/safety/flood.
