Sedalia, Mo. – Flash flooding threatens roads, neighborhoods, and low-lying areas across central Missouri as intense overnight storms drench communities from Sedalia to Marshall, prompting emergency warnings through 5 a.m. Thursday. Water rescues and dangerous travel conditions are possible with up to 3.5 inches of rainfall reported, and additional heavy rain expected in the hours ahead.
According to the National Weather Service in Kansas City/Pleasant Hill, multiple Flash Flood Warnings remain in effect for Pettis, Saline, Henry, Johnson, Cooper, Howard, Carroll, Chariton, and Lafayette counties until early Thursday. Thunderstorms have dumped between 2 and 3.5 inches of rain, and radar estimates show as much as 1.5 inches more could fall before sunrise. Law enforcement and weather officials urge drivers to avoid flooded roads, especially along U.S. 50, Route 65, and key stretches near Sedalia, Warrensburg, Boonville, and Marshall.
Flooding is already impacting Sedalia, Knob Noster, Sweet Springs, Fayette, Salisbury, Glasgow, and smaller towns like La Monte and Centerview. High water may block underpasses, strand vehicles, and flood basements, while creeks and streams are rising rapidly. Authorities stress that most flood deaths occur in vehicles—never drive around barricades, and turn around if you encounter water on the road. Residents should move valuables to higher ground and keep phones charged in case of power outages or emergency alerts.
This rain event follows several days of scattered storms across the region, saturating soils and raising the risk for rapid flooding. The last time central Missouri saw similar widespread flooding was during the summer of 2021.
Flash Flood Warnings remain in effect until 5 a.m., but additional advisories may be issued if storms persist. Check local alerts and stay off the roads until waters recede.
