St. Louis, MO – A powerful and prolonged weather system is expected to bring potentially historic rainfall and severe flooding risks across parts of Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, and surrounding states through Sunday.
According to the NOAA Weather Prediction Center, the region is forecast to receive widespread rainfall totals of 10 to 15 inches, with isolated areas potentially exceeding that mark. The heaviest precipitation will impact the Lower Ohio Valley, the Mid-South, and the eastern Ozarks.
Forecasters warn of a catastrophic, life-threatening flash flooding risk as multiple rounds of intense rainfall move through the area. Flash flooding will be especially dangerous in urban areas, low-lying regions, and near rivers and streams.
Catastrophic river flooding is also possible, particularly in western Kentucky and northwestern Tennessee, with significant river level rises likely in major tributaries feeding into the Lower Ohio Valley. The areas surrounding Little Rock, Nashville, Louisville, and St. Louis are among those at highest risk, according to the rainfall and excessive rainfall outlook maps.
Officials urge residents to prepare for severe disruptions, with potential road closures, evacuations, and emergency response efforts likely through the weekend. The threat level is categorized as “High” in parts of Arkansas, Tennessee, and Kentucky, indicating an elevated risk for dangerous and widespread flooding.
Emergency management agencies are advising the public to monitor local weather alerts, avoid flooded roadways, and review evacuation plans if they reside in flood-prone zones. The risk of flash flooding may continue into early next week as saturated ground conditions worsen.
Weather conditions are expected to intensify beginning Thursday evening, with the most hazardous impacts anticipated Friday through Sunday.
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