Ohio Valley Region – A changing weather pattern this week could bring rain, snow, and rising river levels across parts of the Ohio Valley and Great Lakes drainage basin, according to forecasters.
According to the National Weather Service Ohio River Forecast Center (OHRFC), a weak weather system will bring light rain south of the Ohio River on Wednesday, affecting parts of Tennessee, Kentucky, southern West Virginia, and the New River basin. While rainfall amounts are expected to be modest, wet ground conditions could contribute to runoff in some areas.
A stronger cold front is forecast to cross the Ohio Valley on Thursday, bringing widespread rain before temperatures drop. Forecasters say precipitation is expected to transition from rain to snow Thursday night into Friday, particularly across Indiana, Ohio, and portions of the central Ohio Valley.
Hydrologists warn that river rises to action stage are possible, with the highest concern focused on southern Indiana. While widespread flooding is not anticipated, some rivers and streams could approach levels that require closer monitoring.
A 10-day river outlook shows mostly normal river flow across much of the region, with only isolated points showing elevated risk. Officials emphasize that action-stage rises are not flooding but signal the potential for impacts if additional rainfall occurs.
Residents living near rivers, creeks, and low-lying areas are encouraged to remain aware of forecast updates, especially later this week as temperatures fall and snow enters the picture.
Travel impacts are possible late Thursday night into Friday if snow develops during colder overnight hours.
