Ohio Valley – River rises are likely across the Ohio Valley as a wetter pattern brings increasing rainfall late this week, according to the National Weather Service Ohio River Forecast Center.
Forecasters said scattered showers are expected today, followed by more widespread rain Thursday and Friday across much of the Ohio River and Lake Erie drainage basins. The added rainfall is expected to cause rivers and streams to rise, with some locations potentially reaching action stage and isolated areas seeing minor flooding.
According to the Ohio River Forecast Center, the greatest hydrologic impacts are most likely where heavier rainfall develops later this week. Localized heavy rain is possible across parts of Middle Tennessee into eastern Kentucky Friday into Friday night, which could contribute to faster river responses in downstream Ohio Valley communities.
Five-day precipitation outlooks show broad coverage of rainfall across the basin, with totals varying by location. While widespread flooding is not currently forecast, officials said repeated rainfall could lead to elevated river levels, increased flows, and localized flooding of low-lying or flood-prone areas.
The outlook may be especially relevant for communities along rivers and creeks, as well as for barge traffic, riverfront infrastructure, and low-water crossings throughout the Ohio Valley.
Residents are encouraged to closely monitor river forecasts and updates through weather.gov/ohrfc, especially if living or working near waterways.
