Indianapolis, Indiana – Drivers across central Indiana have just hours to prepare before up to 3 inches of rain begins overwhelming creeks, storm drains and low-lying roads by 7 p.m. tonight.
According to the National Weather Service in Indianapolis, a Flood Watch is in effect from 7 p.m. Tuesday through Wednesday morning for 25 counties spanning central, west central, east central and southern Indiana. Rainfall totals between 2 and 3 inches are expected, with locally higher amounts possible. The concern is excessive runoff that could push rivers and streams out of their banks before the Wednesday morning commute.
Statewide, the heaviest impacts are expected along and south of the I-70 corridor, including Marion, Hendricks, Johnson, Morgan and Shelby counties. In Indianapolis, ponding is likely on interstates including I-65 and I-465, especially near low spots and construction zones. Terre Haute, Bloomington, Columbus and Vincennes could also see rapid rises on nearby creeks and tributaries overnight.
Smaller streams in Brown, Monroe and Lawrence counties may respond quickly to bursts of heavier rain, while rural roads in Greene, Daviess and Sullivan counties face the highest risk of temporary closures.
Residents in flood-prone areas should clear storm drains, charge devices and avoid parking near creeks. Never drive through water covering a roadway; depth can change rapidly in the dark.
Rain continues into early Wednesday before tapering. Additional advisories or river warnings could be issued overnight as water levels respond to the rainfall.
