Springfield, Ill. – Flash flooding could hit much of central and east-central Illinois through Monday morning, as waves of heavy thunderstorms dump over 6 inches of rain in some areas.
According to the National Weather Service in Lincoln, a Flood Watch is in effect for more than 40 counties, including Peoria, Champaign, Decatur, and Springfield. The risk is highest from Sunday morning through 10 a.m. Monday, when rain rates may exceed 2 inches per hour during the strongest storms.
Low-lying roads, underpasses, and small creeks are most vulnerable. Counties under the watch span from Knox and McLean in the north to Lawrence and Richland in the southeast. Flash flooding may be worsened by “training” storms — repeated rounds of downpours over the same area.
Motorists should avoid flooded roadways, especially after dark when water depth is harder to judge. Residents are urged to charge phones, monitor alerts, and prepare to move to higher ground if needed.
More watches or warnings could be issued later today as rainfall totals rise.
