Jackson, Ky. – More than 30 counties across eastern and southeastern Kentucky could see flash flooding this afternoon through Monday night, as repeated rounds of heavy rain soak already saturated ground.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, a Flood Watch is in effect from 1 p.m. Sunday through 8 p.m. Monday for areas including Pikeville, Hazard, London, and Morehead. Forecasters warn that torrential rainfall could lead to dangerous runoff, quickly flooding creeks, low-lying roads, and urban drainage systems.
Counties under the watch stretch from Fleming and Bath in the north to Bell, Harlan, and Pike in the southeast. Key roadways such as US-23, KY-15, and I-75 near London may be affected by high water or closures. Emergency managers urge residents to avoid driving through flooded roads and to move to higher ground if water rises rapidly.
Soils across the region remain saturated after a wet week, increasing the risk of flash flooding, especially where storms repeatedly track over the same areas.
This is the first widespread summer flood threat for the region since late June. Residents should prepare by charging phones, securing drainage areas, and monitoring alerts.
The Flood Watch remains active through Monday evening, and additional warnings may be issued with little notice.
