Springfield, MO – The National Weather Service in Springfield has issued a flood watch for much of southwest Missouri and portions of southeast Kansas, effective from 1 a.m. Tuesday through Wednesday morning.
According to the NWS, multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop late Monday night into Tuesday, producing potentially heavy rainfall across the Ozarks region. Excessive runoff may lead to flooding of creeks, rivers, streams, and low-water crossings.
The flood watch covers Cherokee and Crawford counties in Kansas, as well as Barry, Christian, Douglas, Howell, Jasper, Lawrence, McDonald, Newton, Ozark, Stone, and Taney counties in Missouri. This includes communities such as Joplin, Branson, Neosho, Cassville, Ava, and West Plains.
Forecasters warn that heavy rainfall could quickly flood low-lying areas and rural crossings, creating hazardous travel conditions. Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roads and heed barricades. “Turn around, don’t drown,” officials emphasized, noting that just a small amount of moving water can sweep vehicles away.
The flood watch will remain in effect through Wednesday morning, September 24.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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