Evansville, IN – Heavy rainfall is forecast to impact the Ohio Valley through 8 a.m. Thursday, with up to 5 inches of rain possible in isolated areas of southern Illinois, southern Indiana, and central Kentucky, according to the National Weather Service.
The Ohio River Forecast Center reports that widespread rain totals between 0.50 and 1 inch are expected across the region, but embedded thunderstorms may bring much heavier rainfall in localized pockets. Areas from Paducah, Kentucky, northeast through Evansville and Bloomington, Indiana, and into southeastern Illinois face the highest risk for intense downpours and flash ponding.
According to forecast maps generated Tuesday morning, the heaviest precipitation is expected to concentrate along the Ohio River corridor, with rainfall intensifying through Wednesday before tapering off as the storm system exits to the east early Thursday.
River levels are responding to the moisture influx, with multiple gauges forecast to rise to Action or Minor Flood Stage by Thursday morning. Sites in central Kentucky, southwestern Indiana, and southeastern Illinois show a 30% to 70% probability of exceeding minor flood thresholds, especially where thunderstorms repeatedly track over the same areas.
Officials urge residents near rivers and creeks to remain aware of water level changes, particularly in flood-prone zones. Urban areas with poor drainage may also experience brief street flooding under stronger storm cells.
The National Weather Service recommends monitoring updated rainfall forecasts and local alerts, as conditions may change rapidly depending on storm movement and intensity.
Forecast data is available at weather.gov/ohrfc.
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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